An atmosphere of music, prayer and celebration filled the grounds of the Ozanam Free Physiotherapy Centre last Friday as children with physical challenges, caregivers, clergy and community leaders gathered for a special faith-centered event tagged Night of Praise.
The programme, organized in collaboration with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Daughters of the Holy Spirit of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Iganmode Road, Ota (Ogun State) formed part of ongoing efforts to foster inclusion and spiritual encouragement among children receiving rehabilitation support.
The event received sponsorship from the Tim Tebow Foundation, a United States–based humanitarian organization known for supporting vulnerable children around the world.
Children Take Centre Stage
Participants traveled from various parts of Ogun, Osun and Lagos States, representing schools and care homes including 5T’s Feel Safe Children School (SPED), Emmanuel Home (Lambe), Favid Orphanage School (Ijoko), St. Mary’s Rehabilitation Center (Ipetumodo), So Said Charity Home (Lagos), as well as beneficiaries of the host physiotherapy centre.
Rather than focusing on limitations, the evening spotlighted ability, resilience and joy. The children were ceremonially crowned “kings and queens” of the celebration by invited dignitaries, drawing cheers from parents and well-wishers.
Among the guests were Mr. Chukwuma Chisom, National President of the Association of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary; Mr. Oyenekan Steven, Laity President of St. Peter’s Parish, Ota, and President of the Lagos Metropolitan Council of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul; and Mrs. Abiade Sowunmi, former President of the Abeokuta Central Council of the Society.
Message of Dignity and Hope
Speaking on behalf of the Vincentian family, Rev. Sr. Florentina Echem, DHS, described the gathering as more than a social event.
“It is an opportunity to unite in faith, love and hope,” she said, expressing appreciation to the Tim Tebow Foundation for its support. She emphasized that every child present is “a precious gift of God,” deserving of dignity, recognition and celebration regardless of physical condition.
Organizers noted that the initiative aligns with the centre’s broader mission: providing free physiotherapy services while nurturing emotional and spiritual well-being.
Culture, Colour and Community Spirit
The celebration featured lively cultural displays and choreographed performances by the Holy Childhood Association, adding colour and rhythm to the evening’s worship sessions. Songs of praise echoed across the venue as children, volunteers and clergy joined in collective thanksgiving.
Parents and caregivers described the event as uplifting, citing the rare opportunity for children with special needs to gather in a setting focused entirely on affirmation and joy.
As the evening drew to a close, group photographs captured smiling faces — a visual testament to a night defined by unity, faith and shared humanity.
