Accra, Jan. 1, GNA - Christians in Ghana, on the eve of New Year joined their counterparts all over the world to observe watch night services to herald the year 2009.

Many of the churches were filled to capacity, with both regular and occasional worshippers, most of them clad in white attires to signify their joy at making it to the end of the year, and to bid farewell to 2008, while entering the New Year with commitment and re-dedication to the work of God.

At the stroke of midnight, there were spontaneous shouts of 'afehyia pa', jubilation and singing songs of praise, hymns amidst dancing and waving of white handkerchiefs, in honour of God for ushering them into another year.

While the watch night services were going on, other people, mostly the youth, converged at various points, in the night clubs and on the streets, dancing to blaring music and although illegal, popping fire-crackers amidst merry-making. Beach parties have been planned for the celebration of New Year's Day that has been declared a Statutory Public holiday.