Bishop of Ika Dioceses, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Ekpenisi, has urged Nigerians to live a life of love for a transformed society and to enjoy eternal life.

He made the call in a sermon at the commencement service of the first session of the 12th synod of the Diocese of Abuja on Thursday 18th May, 2023.

The 4-day synod which is the gathering of the Bishop, Clergy and Laity delegates (both male and female) of the diocese is titled “Synodalty: The Transforming Journey with Jesus Christ” started on Thursday 18th May at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church Maitama, Abuja under the leadership of the Synod president and bishop of Abuja diocese, The Most Rev’d Henry C. Ndukuba.

Synod is an annual highest decision making gathering in every Anglican Diocese.

Bishop Ekpenisi who took the text of his sermon from Psalm 24 v3-4 with the title “Who Shall Ascend to the Hill of the Lord”, said that bearing religious titles and belonging to faith groups without showing love was not good enough.

Right Reverend Geoffrey Ekpenisi expressed regret that some leaders see themselves above the church thereby affecting their relationship with members.

He said full participation of leaders in church programs and activities encourages members to be more committed for their spiritual growth.

He further stressed the need to be baptized, be born again and live a life of righteousness in the society for a better country.

The cleric said that it is important to consider and be empathic with the plight of fellow citizens in day-to-day dealings.

“There is a need for purity, a total departure from sin, this is a condition to access God and to ascend to heaven at the end of time,” he said.

The cleric urged Christians to hold on to the Word of God and be prayerful saying that effective and fervent prayers avail much.

He also emphasized the need for church leaders to always care and show love to members for peace to reign both in the church and the society at large.

In his opening remark, Primate Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion and the president of the Synod, The Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba said the church would continue to compliment efforts at making life easier for every member of the society irrespective of religious affiliation.

By: Korede Akintunde

CoN Communication Officer

Email: [email protected]