The soft glow of Christmas lights, the harmony of carols, and the powerful rhythm of scripture came together as MTN Ghana hosted this year’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, themed “The Heart of Christmas.”
The annual ceremony was a moving blend of faith, music, dance, and reflection, reminding patrons of the deeper meaning of the season beyond the festivities.
The evening unfolded with the First Lesson, read from Genesis 3:8–15 by Franklin Sowah of Marketing and Graphic Communications, drawing the audience into humanity’s earliest encounter with hope and redemption.
Charles Nortey Oquaye followed with the Second Lesson from Genesis 22:15–18, echoing God’s enduring promise and covenant with His people.
The atmosphere shifted gently as the MTN Viva Voices filled the hall with rich harmonies, preparing hearts for the Third Lesson, delivered by Edwin Ofosu, a visually impaired student of the University of Ghana.
Reading Isaiah 11:1–9, his voice carried a message of peace, justice, and the coming of the Messiah—met with warm applause from the audience.
Adding colour and movement to the scriptures, Dance With a Purpose (DWP) took the stage with a captivating theatrical performance, translating the Christmas story into expressive choreography that resonated deeply with the audience.
The Fourth Lesson, from Luke 1:26–35, 38, was read by the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications
Sylvia Owusu Ankomah recounts the angel’s message to Mary.
The spiritual tone was further elevated as gospel powerhouse Joe Mettle ministered in song, leading the audience into moments of worship and reflection.
The journey through scripture continued with ASP Effia Tenge (Rtd.), who delivered the Fifth Lesson from Isaiah 9:2–7, proclaiming the birth of the Prince of Peace.
The Sixth Lesson, Luke 2:1–7, was read by Odaifio Welentsi III, Paramount Chief of the Nungua Traditional Council and President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, whose regal presence added solemnity to the nativity account.
The Seventh Lesson, Matthew 2:1–12, was read by Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, recounting the journey of the wise men.
This was followed by an exhortation from Rev. Father Ebenezer Botchway, who centred his message on love—the true heartbeat of Christmas.
He reminded the audience that the season is a celebration of God’s ultimate gift to humanity and urged everyone to reflect that love through selfless giving.
Drawing on the theme of divine wisdom, he highlighted three enduring lessons: to rejoice with great joy, to choose worship over pride, and to offer gifts with sincere hearts.
Media personality Anita Akua Akuffo delivered the Eighth Lesson from Luke 2:8–16, vividly retelling the shepherds’ encounter with the angels, while the Head of Sales at Labadi Beach Hotel, George Ayisi, concluded the readings with the Ninth Lesson from John 1:1–14, reminding all of the Word made flesh.
The evening sparkled with musical performances from Kwame Eugene, whose melodies brought youthful energy to the celebration, and Kofi Kinaata, who closed the night with an uplifting performance that left the audience smiling and reflective.
MTN Ghana Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Blewett, reflected on the year’s journey and the company’s purpose.
He expressed gratitude to customers, partners, employees, and stakeholders for their loyalty and trust, describing them as the heartbeat of the company.
He reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to shared value, environmental responsibility, and innovation, highlighting the recent introduction of Ghana’s first biodegradable SIM card as a step toward reducing plastic waste.
Mr. Blewett also shared a personal reflection on Christmas as a season of hope, love, kindness, and generosity—a time to slow down, reconnect, and create meaningful memories with loved ones.
He encouraged everyone to fully embrace the joy of the season before wishing all customers and their families a Merry Christmas filled with peace, laughter, and renewal.
The MTN Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols once again proved to be more than a corporate event—it was a soulful celebration of faith, culture, and community, capturing the true heart of Christmas.
