…As church dedicates new auditorium, vicarage
From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has congratulated members of St. John’s Anglican Church, Itaja/Amuzu Parish, Olokoro West Archdeaconry, on the occasion of its centenary celebration and the dedication of a new auditorium and vicarage.
The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Engr. IkechukwuEmetu, FNSE, described the 100-year milestone as a testament to the faith, sacrifice, unity and perseverance of generations of worshippers who laid the foundation of the church.
Speaking during the thanksgiving service, confirmation and admission ceremony, Otti paid tribute to the founding members, many of whom have passed on, noting that their labour continues to bear fruit.
He urged the congregation to deploy the newly dedicated facilities to advance the gospel, win souls, transform lives, and provide spiritual strength to both members and the wider Olokoro community.
The Governor further highlighted the critical role of faith-based institutions in promoting morality, peace, education and community development. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partner with churches and other stakeholders in building a peaceful and prosperous Abia.
He also called on citizens to obtain and use their Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, ahead of future elections. He said sustained support for his administration and Labour Party candidates was key to consolidating the gains recorded in the state.
Otti prayed for greater spiritual growth and impact for St. John’s Anglican Church as it begins another century of service.
In his homily, the Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Ibeabuchi, charged Christians to remain steadfast in faith and service to God. Speaking on the theme “Your Labour Is Not in Vain”, from 1 Corinthians 15:58, the Bishop cautioned against the growing tendency among youths to question obedience to God and righteous living.
He stressed that sacrifices and acts of love and service to God carry eternal value, and urged believers not to allow cultural pressures or doubts to weaken their faith. The Bishop also appreciated past members whose contributions made the centenary achievement possible.
Also speaking, the Director-General of “Olokoro for Otti,” Dr. Grant NnamdiAtuma, said the group identified with the church because of its impact on character building and community development. He described the centenary as a recognition of generations who contributed to the spiritual and socio-cultural growth of Olokoro.
The event featured the confirmation of members and the admission of new members into the Mothers’ Union, Women’s Guild, Girls’ Guild, Christian Men’s Fellowship and Anglican Youth Fellowship.
Dignitaries at the celebration included the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Obi Aguocha; Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Augustine OkezieMeregini; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole; Commissioners, LGA Mayors, traditional rulers, Labour Party faithful and clergymen.
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