•Anglican bishops
Critical challenges facing the country such as insecurity, economic hardship, political instability, as well as Spiritual revival among others would form the epicentre of discussions as 195 Anglican Churches gather for the 3rd session of the 19th Synod of the Enugu Diocese (Anglican Communion).
Bishop of Enugu Diocese (Anglican Communion), Rt Rev Prof Samuel Obiajuru Ike, told reporters in Enugu today that the five days event which begins on June 24, would draw representatives of the government, business sector, traditional and delegation of the Anglican Churches to chart the way forward for the country and her people.
He stated that the event which holds at the St Peter’s Anglican Church, Ogbete, Enugu, would review the activities of the diocese in the past one year and project issues for the future for the church.
Ike, stated that whatever affects the rest of the country, affects Christians and non Christians living in it, stressing that the Church would not sit idly and watch the various dislocation going on in the nation.
He said: “Because members of the Synod who are members of the church do not exist in a vacuum. They still exist in a society, in a community, and in this instance, in a nation which is Nigeria.
So, we will have a discourse on the local, national, and global issues that affect our daily living.
“Members of the church who have their Lord and Saviour as Jesus Christ are, accordingly the spiritual citizens of heaven, but they still live on earth. And so whatever happens within their environment still affects them, and will affect their spiritual life and journey and destination.
“We will be speaking on the state of the Nigerian nation, governance and democracy dividends, electricity supply, security, the economy, education, the Eastern Rail project and the forthcoming 2027 general elections,” he stated.
According to him, this year’s synod continues a revival emphasis that began in 2024 and seeks to encourage Christians towards deeper obedience to God’s word, genuine repentance and sustained prayer.
“We are continuing the revival cry because the church, families, communities and the nation need divine intervention. Revival begins with obedience to God’s word, repentance from sin and relentless, believing prayers,” he said.
He stressed that while the church respects constituted authority, it has a responsibility to speak truthfully on issues affecting society.
“We fear God only. We respect men and those in authority, but we will speak the truth about what is happening in our nation,” he added.
He disclosed that the synod will feature renowned Christian leaders, including evangelist Gbile Akanni, who will serve as the main guest preacher during the opening sessions, while former Minister of Power and cleric, Rev. Prof. Chinedu Nebo, will minister during the closing thanksgiving service.
Ike said several sessions, including the opening service, Bible studies, morning devotions, the presentation of the bishop’s charge and the thanksgiving service, would be open to members of the public regardless of denomination.
