Heaven Opened Over St. Mary’s As Favour Group Holds ‘Harvest of God’s Greatness’ Under Showers of Blessing
It was a day of divine visitation at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Awka, as the Favour Group held their much-anticipated Harvest of God’s Greatness amid what many described as a physical and spiritual downpour of blessings. From the early hours of the morning, rain fell steadily between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m., yet worshippers arrived undeterred, armed with umbrellas and songs of praise. To many, the rain was not an obstacle but a heavenly sign — a literal “shower of blessings” marking the presence of God at the event.
Coming after the Marvelous and Dominion groups had celebrated their own harvests, the Favour Group’s thanksgiving service stood out for its contagious joy, unity, and deep sense of purpose. The church was beautifully adorned with flowers, fruits, and colourful fabrics symbolizing abundance and divine increase. Every corner echoed with hymns of gratitude, as members and supporters lifted their voices in thanksgiving for the countless ways God had shown His greatness throughout the year.
The high point of the service was the stirring sermon delivered by Bro. Nkemdilim Chigbata, who spoke powerfully on the theme — Harvest of God’s Greatness. He reminded the congregation that every blessing received is a seed that should be replanted in faith and service. Drawing from Scripture, he emphasized that God’s greatness is not measured by wealth or success, but by the peace, protection, and favour that surround His people. His message left a deep impression on the congregation, prompting rounds of applause and reflective silence in equal measure.
Throughout the service, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and reverence. Choirs rendered uplifting songs that filled the church with harmony, while dance groups performed gracefully in praise of God’s goodness. Even the sound of raindrops on the church roof seemed to blend into the rhythm of worship. For many, it felt like heaven and earth were in communion — a perfect alignment of faith, music, and gratitude.
As offerings and thanksgiving gifts were brought forward, donations poured in generously from members, guests, and supporters of the Favour Group. The outpouring of love and giving was a testament to the unity and faith that bind the congregation together. Families danced forward with smiles and testimonies, each gift symbolizing gratitude for a year of divine provision and protection.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Favour Group, Mr. Chinedu Onyebuchi, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for making the harvest a success despite the morning rain. He thanked the parish priest, church leaders, and members for their unwavering support and commitment, noting that the event was a reflection of God’s mercy and the power of collective faith. “This harvest reminds us that God never forgets His people,” Onyebuchi said. “Even when it rains, His grace shines through. We dedicate this day to His glory and to every member who stood firm in faith.” He further prayed for greater favour upon all families represented in the group.
Also speaking, the Parish Priest, Rev. Canon John Agbugba, commended the Favour Group for their devotion, describing the celebration as one of the most inspiring harvests in recent memory. He urged members to continue to serve God with sincerity and love, reminding them that true greatness is found in humility and obedience. “When believers gather in unity, even the heavens respond,” he said. “Today’s rain was God’s own approval — a reminder that His blessings are ever sure for those who praise Him in all seasons.”
By the end of the celebration, it was evident that the Harvest of God’s Greatness had lived up to its name. The rain had stopped, but the blessings continued to flow — in the smiles of members, the joy of giving, and the renewed faith that filled every heart. As parishioners departed, one sentiment echoed across the crowd: “Truly, when praises go up, blessings come down.” The Favour Group’s harvest was not just a service — it was a divine encounter that will be remembered in St. Mary’s Anglican Church for years to come.