Yesterday, the 25th of February 2024, history unfolded with a remarkable event that resonated deeply within the hearts Anglican faithful. On the momentous occasion, the Ugwuagba Archdeaconry emerged, carved out of the Awada Archdeaconry, marking a significant milestone in the ecclesiastical landscape.
With solemnity and reverence, His Lordship, the Rt Rev Dr. Owen Nwokolo, Bishop on the Niger, graced the occasion, presiding over the ecclesiastical constitution and episcopal inauguration of the newly formed Ugwuagba Archdeaconry. The air was charged with anticipation and reverence as clergy, dignitaries, and the faithful gathered to witness this historic moment.
On arrival, the bishop was welcomed by a wonderful Brigade guard display and a cheering crowd of faithful whose joy knew no bounds. The inauguration service, which was Spirit-filled and liturgically exceptional, began at 9:30 am and saw an excellent display of the church’s heritage and traditions.
In his sermon, the Bishop on the Niger, charged all present to seek for souls as it is God’s utmost desire and the mandate of the Church. He concluded his words of admonition with a prayer to quicken all to love God more and have compassion for unbelievers and backslidden members.
The deed of inauguration, which traced the history of Ugwuagba Archdeaconry from the arrival of Church Missionary Society Missionaries to Onitsha in 1857 and the formation cum episcopal succession of the Diocese since 1864 to date, was read by the Deputy Chancellor of the Diocese, Barr. Sir Ben Uzuegbu, following the formal inauguration appeal to the Bishop by the representatives of Parishes within the proposed Archdeaconry.
This was then followed by the inauguration of the Archdeaconry, institution and induction of Ven. Dr. Azubuike Chibuzor Okudo by the Bishop as the pioneer Archdeacon haven declared his willingness and commitment to serve as the bond servant for the propagation on the gospel in the area.
The service ended with an Episcopal benediction and blessings on the new Archdeaconry, all of which were presented by the Bishop
Surely the church is marching on!!
