COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE SYNOD HELD FROM FRIDAY 2ND MAY TO SUNDAY 4TH MAY 2025 HELD AT ST. BARNABAS CHURCH, MADALLA

Introduction

The Synod with the theme: “Assimilation and Separation: Two Extremes that the Church Wrestles with Globally” opened with a solemn Holy Communion service, presided over by the Bishop of Minna Diocese and the Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lokoja – Most Reverend Daniel Abubakar Yisa as the Celebrant assisted by Madalla Archdeaconry.

The Guest Preacher – Venerable Kenneth Ikhide from Gwagwalada Anglican Diocese delivered the sermon throughout the three-day programme, explored the biblical foundations of the theme, highlighting how the Church globally grapples with these dual challenges.

The preacher who emphasised the delicate balance the Church must maintain between assimilating into diverse cultures for effective evangelism and separating from worldly practices to preserve holiness also noted that while assimilation fosters relevance and outreach, unchecked compromise can dilute the Gospel’s transformative power.

However, he warned that too much separation risks isolating the Church from the people it aims to serve. He clarified that separation does not mean complete isolation but rather distancing oneself from evil. At its core, it signifies answering God’s call to turn away from sin.

After the Holy Communion service, the Bishop of Minna Diocese and Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lokoja, Most Reverend Daniel Abubakar Yisa, delivered his Presidential Address. Reflecting on the Synod’s theme, he examined the tension within the Church-being in the world but not of it.

He emphasized that the Church must navigate this balance, striving to live faithfully while engaging effectively with the world. This, he noted, requires discernment, wisdom, and unwavering reliance on God’s guidance.

Goodwill messages were received from the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican) – Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, former Dean of the Church of Nigeria – Most Reverend Buba Lamido,, Bishop of Doko Diocese – Rt. Rev. Uriah Kolo, Bishop of Zaki Biam – Rt. Rev. Jezreel Vandeh. Others were Mama M. F. Tswanya and Engineer C. D. Arah from Damaturu who is now residing in Abuja.

Synod’s Observations and Recommendations

1. The Church and Christians

Observations: The Synod observed that:

1. The Church faces tension between cultural assimilation (to engage meaningfully with modern society) and separation (to uphold biblical distinctiveness). This struggle impacts evangelism, discipleship, and ethical witness.
2. Some Christians tend toward extreme assimilation, adopting secular values that compromise faith, while others withdraw entirely, losing opportunities to influence society positively.
3. The lack of clear theological guidance on this balance has led to confusion, division, and weakened collective witness in many congregations.

Consequently, the Synod called on the

1. Church leaders to provide sound biblical teachings that equip Christians to establish healthy boundaries in their interactions. This includes discerning how to serve others effectively without overextending themselves or compromising core Christian values. Emphasis should be placed on scriptural fidelity and Spirit-led discernment to avoid the pitfalls of becoming “everything to everybody” in ways that may dilute Gospel- centered living.
   The Synod further recommended that:
2. Christians must actively engage in their communities as “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-16) while resisting conformity to harmful secular trends.
3. The Church should foster unity across diverse cultural expressions of faith, celebrating diversity within the bounds of the Word of God.

2. International

The Synod expressed heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis and offered prayers for the Catholic community and the leading of the Holy Spirit as the Enclave meets to elect his successor during this transition while affirming shared Christian values of compassion and service.

3. The State of the Nation

The Synod expressed deep concern over:

Rampant and unbridled Corruption which has continued to weaken public trust and trap people in poverty.
Growing insecurity from banditry and kidnappings to terrorism, disrupting lives, forcing families to flee, and crushing local economies.

The Synod therefore recommended that:

1. Citizens and leaders must uphold accountability, with the Church advocating for transparency, equity, fairness and justice in governance.
2. Government should intensify security measures, including community policing and equitable resource distribution, to address root causes of unrest.
3. Policymakers must prioritise national unity, dialogue, and inclusive development policies to bridge political and ethnic divides.

4. Niger State

Commendation for the State Government

The Synod acknowledged the Niger State government’s investments in public infrastructure, such as roads, hospitals, education, agriculture and Airport upgrading, among others, which have the potential to improve living standards and economic opportunities.

The Synod also commended efforts at curbing street gangsterism and illegal mining. However, the Synod urged the government to balance physical development with social welfare programs, ensuring holistic progress for all citizens.

Conclusion

The Synod called on Christians to prayerfully engage with the world without losing their God- given identity and urged leaders at all levels to pursue justice, peace, and equitable development. The Synod of Minna Anglican Diocese remains committed to being a transformative force in society, guided by the wisdom of Scripture.

 

Signed by Evang. Earnest Udezo (JP) and Ven. Daniel S. Yisa