(BY VEN. FOLUSO TAIWO)

The Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Revd. Nicholas D. Okoh has declared that confirmees are special breeds in the sight of God and He has deposited in them lots of talent and gifts; adding that they must be determined and make the decision to fulfill the mandate given to them to the Glory of God.

Primate Okoh gave this vivid description at the All Saints Church, Wuse Zone 5 at the Episcopal visit and Confirmation Service for all confirmees in Churches under Wuse Archdeaconry and admission of Women to Mothers Union and Women’s Guild. He encouraged them to be willing and serve God, receive from Him as Apostles sent by Him without allowing any hindrance especially sin.

He urged them to have a good standing in the Church, steer clear of sin so as not to be dwarfed and quench the Holy Spirit; noting that living in habitual sin can quench the Holy Spirit.

The Primate urged the newly confirmed Christians to cultivate the habit of reading the word of God, attending church services and activities with a view to learning new things and receive power through ceaseless prayers. He added that these works must be exercised invest upon and practicalised on daily basis so that the power may not be taken away.

The Primate’s sermon was more of teaching, questions and answers with a view to accessing the quality of preparation of the confirmees.

Dr. Okoh reiterated that the Triune God (The Trinity) is very crucial in the services of the church with the Holy Spirit as the sanctifier, because he guides, counsels, and gives new life. He gave very deep meaning to Baptism and Sacrament both the outward which is visible and inward which is spiritual adding that the old corrupt life dies and laid to rest while new life unto righteousness is regained. He called on the confirmees to shun covetousness which he described as irresistible desire to grab what is not ones own and receive by faith the body and blood of Jesus Christ according to the belief of the 16th century reformers that it is by faith that the bread and wine becomes the blood and body of Jesus Christ.

Altogether one hundred and eighteen (118) candidates were confirmed, nineteen candidates (19) were admitted to the women’s guild and eleven (11) new members were admitted into the Mother’s Union at the 2018 Wuse Archdeaconry Confirmation of candidates and admission of women into Women’s Guild and Mothers Union. It is a refreshing time before the Lord. The service was glorious.