Sundays were always a highlight for the community of Holy Spirit Revival Church.
The congregation gathered not only for worship but also for the entertaining and sometimes downright hilarious announcements that had become a beloved tradition.
"Before we conclude, we have a special prayer request from our dear Aunty Blessing," Pastor John said, trying to maintain his composure. "Aunty Blessing, please come forward."
Aunty Blessing, a well-loved and vibrant member of the church, stepped up to the front. She was known for her colorful wrappers and boisterous personality. Today, however, her expression was one of concern.
"Good morning, church," Aunty Blessing began. "I need your prayers. Yesterday, after choir practice, I realized my favorite wrapper was missing. It's the one with the green colour that I always wear for special occasions."
The congregation exchanged amused glances. Everyone knew Aunty Blessing's favorite wrapper; it was practically a landmark at church events.
"I searched everywhere—inside the church, outside, even asked Mama Nkechi if she had seen it, but no luck," Aunty Blessing continued, her voice filled with dramatic flair. "That wrapper is special to me, and I can't imagine it just disappearing like that."
As she spoke, the congregation tried to stifle their laughter. Pastor John, with a chuckle in his voice, said, "Let us all bow our heads and pray for the swift return of Aunty Blessing's precious wrapper."
After the prayer, the service continued, but the mood was noticeably lighter. Whispers and giggles about the "missing wrapper" could be heard all around. Little did they know, the mystery was far from over.
The following Sunday, Pastor John had barely started the announcements when Aunty Blessing burst through the doors, waving her recovered wrapper triumphantly. The congregation erupted in applause and laughter as she marched to the front.
"Praise the Lord, church!" she exclaimed. "I found my wrapper! It was hiding in the back of my closet all along. I must have overlooked it in my haste."
The congregation roared with laughter, and even Pastor John had to take a moment to compose himself. "Well, Aunty Blessing, we're glad your wrapper has been found safe and sound. This is certainly an answer to our prayers!"
As the laughter died down, Pastor John decided to lighten the mood further. "You know, this reminds me of the parable of the lost sheep. Just like the shepherd rejoiced when he found his lost sheep, we rejoice with Aunty Blessing today!"
From that day on, any lost item at the church was humorously referred to as "doing as Aunty Blessing." Whether it was a missing hymn book, a misplaced Bible, or even a forgotten umbrella, the phrase brought smiles and laughter to everyone.