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What began as a serene outdoor celebration under Accra’s December skies turned into a stirring testament to resilience, fellowship and Christmas joy on Thursday, December 11, 2025, when an unexpected downpour forced a dramatic change of plans at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel.
Far from dampening spirits, the rain became the defining moment of a night many guests later described as “memories worth repeating.”
A Sudden Downpour, A Swift Triumph of Organisation
The annual Night of Nine Lessons and Carols and Musical Concert, hosted by Coconut Grove Hotels and featuring the ever-energetic Winneba Youth Choir, began smoothly outdoors. Hymns floated across the grounds, candles flickered softly, and the atmosphere was prayerful and festive.
The Lessons were read by guests of all ages and backgrounds, including a visually challenged woman whose confident and moving reading drew deep emotion from the audience.
Then came the rain.
Within minutes, ushers and hotel staff calmly guided the cheerful but surprised audience indoors. The hotel’s banquet hall was swiftly transformed into a festive sanctuary, complete with warm lighting, elegant décor and a choir undeterred by the sudden change.
A guest was overheard saying, “Only Coconut Grove can turn a disruption into a blessing this beautifully.”
Music That Lifted the Roof — Indoors
Once settled indoors, the evening blossomed into an even more spirited celebration of Christ’s birth through scripture and song.
The Winneba Youth Choir — renowned for performances from Elmina to Monrovia — filled the hall with stirring renditions of classic carols and contemporary gospel favourites, including:
Their rich harmonies inspired widespread audience participation — clapping, gentle swaying, and even an impromptu “mini choir” rising from the back rows.
Father Pallu Donatus, who doubled as Master of Ceremonies, kept spirits high with humour and warmth, expertly balancing reverence with celebration.
Lessons, Leaders and a Family of Faith
The Lessons were taken by a broad cross-section of society — young people, public servants, corporate leaders and friends of Coconut Grove — underscoring the inclusive spirit of the occasion.
Among those who took part were:
Also in attendance were:
They were joined by a warm mix of stakeholders, families and friends of Groupe Nduom, reflecting Coconut Grove’s long-standing commitment to community, inclusiveness and service.
A Goodwill Message from Dr Kweku Nduom
At the height of the evening, Dr Kweku Nduom, President of Groupe Nduom, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the shareholders.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Directors, management, staff and stakeholders who have stood by the Group through challenging and rewarding times alike, noting that their dedication has helped make Groupe Nduom “a favourite of customers and communities across Ghana and beyond.”
His remarks were met with warm applause and echoed the evening’s underlying themes of gratitude, continuity and faith.
A Sermon of Hope
Father Pallu Donatus later delivered the Christmas exhortation, centring his message on God’s grace, mercy and guidance — timely reminders in a year marked by both trials and triumphs.
Hallelujah, Fellowship and Festive Cheer
The evening reached its climax with Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, followed by an extended choir performance and a rousing medley of praise songs that had many guests on their feet.
This was followed by generous servings of food and drinks, turning the concert into a joyful mini Christmas feast.
In her Vote of Thanks, Ms Afua Taylor Ashie, Front Office and Administrative Manager, summed up the mood of the night, noting that Coconut Grove had once again delivered an evening of fellowship, joy and “memories worth repeating.”
A Night That Proved One Thing
The rain may have interrupted the programme, but nothing — not even a December storm — could stop the music, the worship or the Christmas spirit.
In the end, it was a story of togetherness, professionalism and heart — everything the season stands for.
