(BY NGOZI ADIGHIBE)

The Primate of all Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Rev. Nicholas D. Okoh has charged the Priests of the Anglican Communion to do their best to pass on the faith, which is a heritage that must be passed on. He gave this charge at the All Anglican Clergy Conference held in Makurdi, Benue State. According to him, they must allow people to learn from and be inspired by them, in order for the ministry to be spread.

The All Anglican Clergy Conference commenced officially with the arrival of the Primate and Metropolitan of all Nigeria, His grace the Most Rev. Nicholas D. Okoh and the governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom. Their arrival was done with pomp and pageantry, amidst cheers from the attendees and music from the gospel band. It commenced with an opening hymn and a brief welcome address by the Chairman of the organizing committee, the Rt. Rev. D. K Bello, Bishop of Otukpo Anglican Diocese. He welcomed the Primate, the governor and other visitors to the conference, pointing out that Benue state is the first northern state to host the Clergy Conference.

Meanwhile, the governor of Benue state, Dr. Samuel Ortom reiterated that it was no coincidence that the conference was held in his state, stating that the Almighty God would meet all present at the point of their needs. He quoted profusely from the scriptures, attributing his success as a governor and triumph of the state over its challenges to God, whom according to him, never puts to shame anyone who trusts in Him.

In accordance with the theme for the conference, “Breaking Ministerial Limits,” the Primate of all Nigeria, the Most Rev. Nicholas D. Okoh said that a man of God is known for the power of the Holy Spirit, which he ministers with. He explained that irrespective of where a Priest is situated, the gift of God cannot be hidden. Therefore, he advised the Clergy at the conference to wait on God until it is their time and fulfill their call of building their congregation for ministry. Primate Okoh went further to discuss other issues bordering on ordination, preferment, order of service, homosexuality and the work of the ministry as a whole. He concluded by charging the Priests to not roam around during the conference, discuss issues with one another, seek advice and pray for the land.

The All Anglican Clergy Conference is a conference that is held once in four years. The 2016 edition took place in Makurdi, Benue state, with the theme, “Breaking Ministerial Limits.” The Conference featured a lot of speakers who were Archbishops, Bishops and Priests in the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion and every one of them expanded on the theme, explaining ways through which ministers of the gospel can overcome challenges in the ministry.