Churches in the Tamale Metropolis on Thursday held various worship programmes to herald the New Year.

Most of the churches prayed for continued peace in the country especially before, during and after the 2016 elections.

Reverend Father Christopher Bayoh, Parish Priest of the Sacred Heart Parish of the Catholic Church, urged his Congregation to use the occasion to settle their differences and should embrace peace.

He said the birth of Jesus must be seen as the beginning of a new life just as when God created the world and urged Christians to live lives worthy of emulation.

“Christmas season is for man to reconcile with God, but it was only proper that man reconciled with his fellow man before seeking the face of God. The New Year is not for only Christians but all mankind and it is necessary for us to use this period to strengthen our love for each other”, he said.

Rev Bayoh said religious, ethnic and family tolerance, were significant assets that accompanied the birth of Christ, and urged all to live in harmony in the New Year and that God would continue to bless those who live righteous lives.

Members of the congregation prayed for national prosperity, continuous peace and harmony.