(BY NGOZI ADIGHIBE)

Christians have been admonished to use prayers and not charms.

The Rt. Rev. Joshua Foluso Taiwo, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Oke-Osun made this known at his Enthronement Service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Gbongan, Osun state, as he delivered his first sermon as the 4^th Bishop of Oke-Osun diocese. He charged Christians to imitate Jesus Christ, who called on God when He needed a miracle and answers, rather than run from pillar to post in search of solutions.

The Bishop who charged the priests to be very much affected with the deplorable conditions of those they preach to and pray for, called on all to look beyond their difficulties and focus on God. He said God is never late and therefore, when Jesus is involved, no case is as hopeless as it may seem.

The Bishop of Oke-Osun diocese narrated the story of Lazarus, who died after a brief illness, but was brought back to life when Jesus arrived, four days after his death; and pointed out that when Jesus came, He wept, showing His humanity and revealing the love He had for Lazarus. Bishop Taiwo said Jesus looked up to God and thanked His Father, before calling Lazarus to come forth. Therefore, the cleric called on believers to always take time to appreciate God and thank Him for His mercies, before making their requests known to Him. He said just as Christ loved Lazarus, He loves them too, which is why He laid down His life for mankind.

The Rt. Rev. Foluso Taiwo prayed for all present at the service, declaring that it will be a year of transformation. He highlighted some of his plans for the diocese, especially as regarding health care and assured the people of Oke-Osun that he came to contribute his quota to the development of the diocese. He thanked all who continue to support him in ministry and all who were present at the Enthronement service, especially the Bishops and their wives.