In a dynamic and impassioned call to action, Rt. Rev Dr. Chidi Oparajiaku stirred the hearts of Nigerians, particularly those of the Christian faith, urging them to embrace and harness their God-given talents for the betterment of both divine service and human society.
His resonant message echoed through the hallowed halls of the four-day Synod of Diocese on the Niger, held within the serene confines of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, in the vibrant city of Onitsha, Anambra State.
With fervent conviction, Bishop Oparajiaku’s sermon ignited a flame of inspiration, compelling his audience to reflect on the profound significance of their talents. However, his exhortation came with a solemn caution against the misuse of these gifts. He warned against the dire consequences of employing one’s talents to sow discord and conflict among fellow human beings, emphasizing the imperative of channeling these abilities towards paths of righteousness and benevolence.
As the echoes of his words reverberated through the sacred space, Bishop Oparajiaku’s call resonated deeply, urging individuals to heed the divine call to service and to wield their talents as instruments of love, peace, and unity. In a world often marred by division and strife, his message served as a clarion call for a collective awakening, urging Nigerians to embrace the transformative power of their talents in the service of both God and humanity.
In his sermon delivered during the opening church service at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, Odakpu, Onitsha, Rt. Rev Dr. Oparaojiaku reminded Christians of their divine mandate to utilize their possessions for the service of both God and humanity.
Drawing from the theme of the Synod, “Christian Stewardship,” which served as the foundation of his sermon, Rt. Rev Dr. Oparajiaku, the Bishop of Ohaji/Egbema Diocese, Imo State, emphasized the importance of genuine accountability in stewardship, coupled with a spirit of humility.
Reflecting on the parable of the talents, the bishop conveyed that talents are bestowed in accordance with individual capacities, urging people to find contentment in their unique gifts.
He elaborated that the significance lies not in the magnitude or quantity of one’s talents, but rather in the extent to which one maximizes their own abilities, emphasizing that individuals should neither despair nor belittle their talents based on comparison.
Bishop Oparaojiaku underscored that the Master allocates resources according to the known capabilities of His servants, stressing the importance of discipline and humble obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ, lamenting the prevalent lack of humility within the Church.
He advocated for believers to willingly submit themselves to discipline and mentorship by their superiors, emphasizing the inherent rewards of obedience and humility, urging Christians to adopt a mindset of considering others as superior.
Expressing concern over the perceived blending of the Church with worldly values, the bishop emphasized the necessity for a clear demarcation between secular and sacred realms, urging the Church to exert a positive influence on the world by maintaining its distinctiveness.
The 2024 Synod of the diocese is hosted by the Onitsha Archdeaconry, comprising Christ Anglican Church, St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, St. Peter’s BCM, and St. Simeon’s Anglican Church, all situated in Onitsha.
The church service featured blessings for the Onitsha Community and musical renditions by the host Archdeaconry Choir, highlighting the communal and celebratory aspects of the gathering.
