◾As Traditional Prime Minister receives Bishop Ogunedo, Diocesan delegation
The Traditional Prime Minister of Nguru-Nweke, Ishi Nze Engr. Sir Nnamdi Oparaji, has called for sustained prayers for peace, unity and development in the community as the Anglican Diocese of Mbaise commenced the First Session of its Twelfth Synod at St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, Nguru-Nweke.
Speaking while receiving the Diocesan Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Mbaise, Rt. Rev. Chamberlain Chinedum Ogunedo, at his residence on Thursday, Sir Oparaji expressed joy over the choice of Nguru-Nweke as host of the synod and described the visit of the bishops and church leaders as a blessing to the community.
The synod, themed “The Loudest Hallelujah Without the Fear of God,” drawn from Amos 5:23–24, officially opened with a series of activities attended by clergy, traditional rulers and lay faithful from across the diocese.
Sir Oparaji, while welcoming the church delegation, requested prayers for lasting peace, progress and divine favour upon the people of Nguru-Nweke. He commended the church for sustaining moral values and spiritual guidance in society, noting that communities thrive better when founded on the fear of God and genuine worship.
Responding on behalf of the church delegation, Bishop Ogunedo appreciated the warm reception accorded to them by Sir Oparaji and the people of Nguru-Nweke. Prayers were later offered over the kolanuts, while Bishop Ekpenisi prayed for peace and God’s blessings upon the land and its people. The host community also presented gifts to the bishops in honour of their visit.
The bishop’s entourage included the Guest Bishop and Synod Preacher, Rt. Rev. Ifeanyichukwu Godfrey Ekpenisi, alongside prominent church officials, clergy and traditional leaders. Also present was the Traditional Ruler of Owutu Kingdom, Eze Christian Omenihu Nwaeze.
The visiting delegation was received with traditional dances and kolanut presentation, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and hospitality of the host community.
The synod activities later moved to St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, Nguru-Nweke, where members of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade mounted a ceremonial guard of honour for inspection by the Diocesan Bishop.
The formal opening service featured a Holy Communion presided over by Bishop Ogunedo, while Bishop Ekpenisi delivered the sermon on the sub-theme, “The Voice God Rejects and the Worship He Seeks.”
In his message, the guest preacher stressed the need for sincere worship, righteousness and genuine fear of God, warning against religious practices that are outwardly loud but lacking in godly character and justice.
Another major highlight of the service was the renewal of oaths of allegiance by clergy members of the diocese to God and to the Diocesan Bishop, reaffirming their commitment to faithful ministry and church order.
The opening day ended successfully with high expectations for further deliberations and spiritual activities during the remaining sessions of the synod.
