COMMUNIQUE: DIOCESE OF AHOADA, 2024 SYNOD.

  • Adesewa Orioye
  • May 27, 2024
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THE COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 7TH SYNOD OF THE DIOCESE OF AHOADA (ANGLICAN COMMUNION), HELD FROM THURSDAY 23RD – SUNDAY 26TH MAY, 2024 AT ST. BARNABAS’ CHURCH, ABARIKPO (HEADQUARTERS OF ABARIKPO ARCHDEACONRY) IN AHOADA-EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF RIVERS STATE.


Introduction:
The Rt. Rev. Clement Nathan Ekpeye, (DSSRS, JP, AP), the Bishop of the Diocese of Ahoada and the President of the Synod with his wife, Mrs. Edna Chiwetara Ekpeye (JP), President of the Mothers’ Union and Women’s Guild, under the guidance and leadership of the Holy Spirit, convened the 2nd Session of the 7th Synod of the Diocese of Ahoada (Anglican Communion) at St. Barnabas’ (Anglican) Church, Abarikpo (Headquarters of Abarikpo Archdeaconry), from Thursday 23rd – Sunday 26th May, 2024.
Theme of the Synod:
The Synod, with the theme, “What shall I render unto the Lord…?” (Psalms 116:12), through Bible Studies, Sermons, Paper Presentations, Group Discussions and Deliberations, and dwelling extensively on the theme, issued the following Communiqué:
The Synod:
Asserts, in response to the poser raised by the theme, that In view of the fact that all good gifts around us are sent from God, Christians are reminded to be grateful (and ascribe glory and thanksgiving) to God for all things at all times.

Enjoins Christians to love the Lord, their God at all times; and to call upon Him, even in times of trouble as long as they live. (Psalms 116:1, 2).

As Christians are aware of God’s ability to answer prayers, Synod enjoins them to witness this to the World, to justify the immense benefits they receive from God.

Encourages Christians to address themselves to God in all things, as they believe in Him. Calls on all to cultivate a life of gratitude and unwavering reliance on God, rejecting despair.

Asserts that by the unexpected selection of David of Bethlehem as king over his people, to the exclusion of his elder brothers, Christians are reminded of God’s Sovereignty of Divine will.

Further asserts that when God is with you, nobody’s ill-will against you will prevail; thus Christians are advised to allow the perfect will of God to prevail in their lives in everything, at all times.

Christians are reminded that those, whose prayers are answered especially at the most difficult times of their lives, should develop the habit of thanking Him all the days of their lives.

Security:
Synod condemns all forms of inhumanity and implores individuals to embrace the path of righteousness and gratitude.

Condemns the current trend of youths in the country engaging in Internet fraud a.k.a Yahoo and Yahoo plus, and encourages them to engage in legitimate skills that are profitable to them and the country.

In the midst of social, political and religious afflictions and other unpleasant circumstances, Synod advises people to know that God’s protection and grace are ever present and therefore should trust God and direct their prayers to him alone.

State of the Nation:
Synod observes that the present economic situation of the country is grossly harsh, leading to unnecessary deaths, starvation and ailments, Synod therefore calls on the leadership of the nation, especially the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make concerted efforts to reduce the suffering of the citizenry through improved economic policies.

Synod observes with disgust, and describes as unfortunate, the political crises bedevilling Rivers State, a situation whereby the immediate past and present administrations of the State do not see eye-to-eye; Synod therefore advises the warring parties to sheath their swords in order to allow the PEACE OF GOD to reign, not only in the State but in the entire Nation.

Synod condemns the unfortunate spate of kidnappings and killings all over the country, and calls on the Security Agencies of Government, particularly the Inspector-General of Police, to rise to the occasion.

Synod prays for the return of Peace to the State.

Synod appreciates all and sundry who have contributed in one way or another since the inception of the Diocese in 2004, and made the reign of our retiring Bishop a success.

Rt Rev’d Clement Nathan Ekpeye, DSSRS, JP, AP
Bishop, Diocese Of Ahoada Anglican Communion.

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