The Diocese on the Niger, Anglican Communion in Anambra State, expanded its ministerial ranks today, Sunday, June 23, 2024, by ordaining 18 new priests. During the ordination ceremony, ministers were urged to embody humility and self-denial.
In his sermon at the ordination service held at All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha, the Archdeacon of Omagba Archdeaconry, Ven Elochukwu Ojukwu, addressed the new priests. He emphasized the importance of faithfulness, even in challenging times, reminding them that their current trials are tests of their faith. “God called you to follow Him, not the world. Keep hope alive, and the Lord will uphold you,” he assured them.
Ven Ojukwu’s sermon, titled “The Hallmarks of Christian Discipleship,” lamented that many have abandoned God’s ways in pursuit of personal glory and material wealth. He criticized some modern preachers for seeking followers through charity for personal gain and condemned those who lead oppressive lives.
Highlighting the essence of Christian discipleship, Ven Ojukwu stated, “We must serve and not wait to be served,” and urged Christians to love one another genuinely, beyond just speaking in tongues.
During the ordination ceremony, the Diocesan, Rt Rev Dr Owen Nwokolo, led the candidates in taking various oaths, affirming that they were not members of secret cults, nor homosexuals or bisexuals. The bishop exhorted them to be diligent in their ministry, emphasizing love and selfless hard work in serving their congregations.
The newly ordained ministers are:
– Rev Chukwunonso Agbalakwe
– Rev Chekwubechukwu Anyadiufu
– Rev Izuchukwu Ejiofor
– Rev Chukwuemeka Joseph
– Rev Benjamin Maduekwe
– Rev Ekene Ndubuisi
– Rev Paul Nwabufo
– Rev Israel Nwizuchukwu
– Rev Chibuzo Nwogu
– Rev Chiemezie Ogidi
– Rev Augustine Okeke
– Rev Ifeanyi Okolo
– Rev Chukwunonso Okonkwo
– Rev Innocent Okonkwo
– Rev Augustine Onuorah
– Rev Christian Onwuelu
– Rev Daniel Okwuosa
– Rev Izuchukwu Udeze
These newly ordained priests are now charged with the sacred responsibility of serving their flocks with dedication, humility, and selflessness.
