The 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ilesa, Anglican Communion, opened on Friday 9 May 2026 with a strong call for Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in divine protection despite Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship.
The solemn opening service, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, marked the commencement of the First Session of the Synod, widely regarded as the highest decision-making assembly of the Diocese. The gathering attracted bishops, clergy, laity and dignitaries from across Osun State and other Anglican dioceses nationwide.
The ceremony began with a colourful procession led by the choir, clergy and officiating ministers, accompanied by the recitation of Psalm 91 as the Diocesan Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Oladapo Folorunsho Asaju, entered the church auditorium in an atmosphere of worship, thanksgiving and reflection.
Presiding over the opening phase of the Holy Eucharist service, Bishop Asaju urged members of the Diocese – including the House of Bishops, clergy and laity – to remain devoted to God and united in prayer.
During the service, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Sir Chief Felix Fagbohungbe, delivered the Old Testament reading, while the Chairman of the Synod Planning Committee, Sir Chief Adeoye, read the Epistle lesson. The Gospel reading was taken by Rev. Olaifa.
Delivering the Synod sermon themed, “Ministry of Angels: God’s Provision for the Security of His People,” the Bishop of Ile-Oluji Diocese, The Rt. Rev. Ajibodu, described Bishop Asaju as a mentor, teacher and academic influence whose contributions had shaped several ministries within the Anglican Communion.
Drawing lessons from biblical accounts involving Daniel, Peter, Elijah and Jesus Christ, Bishop Ajibodu said angels remained instruments of divine guidance, protection and deliverance. He stressed that the nation’s prevailing insecurity and hardship should strengthen, rather than weaken, the faith of believers.
He cautioned Christians against placing absolute dependence on human security systems, urging them instead to trust in God’s unfailing protection.
“The ministry of angels remains part of God’s provision for His people,” he said, while emphasising the need for holiness, prayer and unwavering faith.
The Vicar of the host church, Ven. Dr. Z. A. Adeniji, later led the congregation in the Creed and intercessory prayers, while the Bishop of Jebba Diocese, The Rt. Rev. Aderogba, officiated the Holy Communion on behalf of the Diocesan Bishop.
The service concluded with the Benediction delivered by the immediate past Bishop of Ilesa Diocese, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Olubayo Sowale.
Goodwill messages followed from several senior clerics and church leaders, including retired Archbishop and former Bishop of Ilesa Diocese, Most Rev. Ephraim Adebola Ademowo; Bishop of Idanre Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Otenaike; Rt. Rev. Adebola Ojofeitimi; Rt. Rev. Dr. Alaba Olusola; Sir Chief Gbenga Obisesan; and Oba Sir Alexander Kujembola, among others.
The highlight of the gathering was the presentation and formal launching of the Bishop’s Charge by Bishop Asaju.
Addressing delegates, the cleric urged Christians across Nigeria not to lose faith amid increasing insecurity, inflation and economic uncertainty.
Referencing Psalm 91:11, he said God continued to protect His people through the ministry of angels, while lamenting persistent cases of terrorism, kidnappings and attacks on Christian communities in states including Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Niger and Kwara.
He called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts to combat criminality and restore public confidence in national security.
Bishop Asaju also warned against the worship of angels, stressing that angels were merely servants and messengers of God, and that worship belonged solely to God.
On national affairs, he expressed concern over rising inflation, unemployment and political instability, urging political leaders to demonstrate integrity, patriotism and responsible governance capable of rebuilding public trust.
The Bishop further criticised the endorsement of same-sex marriage by some Western Anglican churches, reaffirming the Diocese of Ilesa’s commitment to biblical doctrine and traditional Christian teachings.
Highlighting developments within the Diocese, Bishop Asaju disclosed that the Diocese had recorded sustained growth in evangelism, church planting, confirmations, retreats and community outreach programmes.
He noted that despite prevailing economic challenges, salaries of clergy and church workers had been paid consistently over the past four years.
Among major projects outlined was the ongoing Heritage City development in Ilesa, which he described as a future hub for Christian education, healthcare and spiritual retreats. He added that the Victoria Medical Centre within the complex had commenced operations with modern medical facilities and qualified personnel already attending to residents.
The Bishop also commended donors, clergy, women and youth organisations, as well as members of the laity, for their support towards the growth of the Diocese. He particularly praised St. Peter’s Anglican Church for hosting the Synod successfully.
The Synod will continue with Bible study sessions, lectures, thanksgiving services and deliberations focusing on evangelism, missions and the spiritual wellbeing of the Church.
