Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province of Nigeria and Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Grace, Most Revd Alexander Ibezim has urged fathers to lean on God to be the strength and glory of their families.
Archbishop Ibezim said this in his message on Sunday to mark the 2024 Father’s Day celebration of the Church Of Nigeria, (Anglican Communion).
The prelate who spoke on the theme, “Christian Fathers Are Living Testimony of God’s Glory,” noted that God made man in His image, just a little lower than angels and in charge of creation, and urged Christian fathers, to seek Jesus Christ in truth and spirit, so that His glory will be revealed upon them to live out their full potentials in God.
He advised men to surrender totally to the Lordship of Christ to manifest his glory, which entails fearing God and seeking to keep His commandments.
Archbishop Ibezim whose message was read at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Awka by the Archdeacon, Ven Onyeka Egwuonwu, further advised men to love their family for the sake of Christ’s kingdom, thereby making their salvation sure in Jesus Christ.
Egwuonwu during his sermon had explained the crucial role that fathers play in the family unit, calling them to ensure sufficient guidance, support, and love to their children and spouses to reap the blessings of God.
He also highlighted the importance of fathers as role models, showing their children what it means to be responsible, caring, and respectful individuals.
Lending his voice to the sermon during an interview, Engineer Igboekwe Chukwunonso, Chairman of the 2024 Father’s Day Planning Committee, urged his fellow fathers not to misuse the authority given to them to mistreat their wives and children.
He also called on them not to relent in using their positions to propagate peace and show love to others for the good of the society.
On his own, former Chairman of Father’s Day Planning Committee and Chairman of NUJ Anambra State, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, said the celebration was significant and reminds fathers of their core duty to guide, protect, and ensure that lives of children and wives are protected for an egalitarian society.
Ikengaonline reports that Father’s Day climaxed with the conferment of ‘Ide’ title on seven deserving fathers for their contributions to the church’s growth.
It also witnessed the rededication of the fathers and the inauguration of the church’s Council of Laity with Dr Raymond Ofor, the new Chairman; and Mrs Esther Odogwu as Secretary.
