By Rev. Isaac Onwusongaonye

The Anglican Diocese of Lafia, Nasarawa State held her 3rd session of the 8th Synod from 8th to 11th June 2023 under the Presidency of the Diocesan Bishop, The Rt Rev Godwin Adeyi Robinson at Mount Zion Church Mararaba in Mararaba Archdeaconry.

The host Archdeaconry led by Canon Stephen Okwuchukwu welcome the bishop, Bishop’s wife clergy and other delegates warmly.
The opening service began at about 6pm with a Eucharist service. The guest speaker, Ven Dr Paul G. Dajur, the General Secretary Church of Nigeria, made good the theme of the synod, “Arise and Shine” Isaiah 60:1.

Ven. Dajur, explained that light no matter the size drives away heavy darkness. He said that people who walk in light are celebrated. The guest preacher whose sermon contained prophetic utterances blessed the people and held them captivated throughout the message.

He however gave some salient points for arising and shining. In his words , he said for one to arise and shine there should be operation no more excuse, and should not give up. Just depend on God and never ask Him how He will do it. Just be determine to make impact. Think positively and move forward. The person who wants to arise stands out when others are sitting, hence he becomes the standard.

He assured the congregation that God has lighted them because His glory is upon them therefore can not be kept under. God blessed people who rely on Him with double blessing. No matter the gang up, Jehovah sees His faithful through. He also made reference to people of the old like Joseph, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, Deborah, Esther etc who stood out.

The Intentional Discipleship which was held in place of Bible study was anchored by Mama Lafia, Mrs Afiniki Robinson, wife of the Diocesan Bishop.
She said that discipleship is life. How the life of Christ has affected your life and your resolve to be intentional about it. You allow God to work on your life positively.

The climax of the Synod was the presentation of the Presidential address otherwise known as the Bishop’s Charge. The bishop gave message to the Diocese in his charge titled ” Arise and Shine” from Isaiah 60:1. He charged the Diocese to embrace God and depend on Him stressing that sun and moon does not give the type of light we are looking for. You can’t shine outside Christ. The diocese has to rise from darkness and shine unto light. He also tasked the government on security, employment and economy. He reaffirmed that the Church condemns same sex marriage.

The synod came to a close with a Thanksgiving service. Delivering his sermon, the guest preacher, The Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Egbunu, Bishop of Diocese of Lokoja, did exhaustive review of the book of Isaiah, saying that the book of Isaiah is three books in one and has four sections. He said that clauses like fear not, comfort my people are top content of the book. He charged the congregation to become children of light. He explained arise and shine as entering into the glory of God. He said that nothing can change the word of God. He added that the consequence of not rising and shining is chasing of shadows. He said that we should access all opportunities in our nation, marriage, Church etc.
He concluded saying that there is darkness to flush out.

The communique and the resolution were read by the chancellor and registrar respectively.

The Rev. Isaac Onwusongaonye is the diocesan media director.