The 2026 Annual Retreat of Bishops and their wives of the Church of Nigeria began yesterday in Lagos, with a focus on spiritual renewal, rededication and faithful service.
The event opened with a solemn Holy Eucharist, consecrating the days ahead for deep reflection and a fresh commitment to the service of God.
The service which was held at the Bethany Chapel, Archbishop Adebola and Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo Christian Resource Centre (Faith Plaza), Bariga, Lagos was presided over by the host bishop, the Rt. Rev’d Dr. Ifedola Senasu Gabriel Okupevi on behalf of the Primate and Metropolitan, His Grace, the Most Rev’d Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba.
In full Anglican tradition, the retreat opened with hymns that reflected the theme for this year’s gathering: “Prepared and Useful to the Master” (2 Timothy 2:8–13). The atmosphere was one of devotion, gratitude, and renewed hope. Bishops and wives from dioceses across the Church of Nigeria gathered to rededicate themselves and their ministries to God.
The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Okupevi acknowledged that in past years, the Church had faced trials and challenges but gave thanks to God, whose faithfulness remains constant.
In a soul-searching sermon anchored on the theme of the retreat, Bishop Okupevi urged the Church leaders to remain steadfast in faith, deeply rooted in the study of Scripture. He also admonished all to be courageous in confronting false doctrines, and unwavering in commitment to faithful leadership and sacrificial service.
Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:8–13, Dr. Okupevi emphasised that discipleship remains central to Christian ministry, as soul-winning is precious to the heart of Christ. To be “useful to the Master,” he said, means being spiritually prepared, functional, and actively involved as vessels unto honour. He also reminded the bishops and wives that suffering is often part of ministry. He recalled Paul’s testimony in 2 Corinthians 11 that endurance, i.e., the grace to bear hardship with patience, is essential, especially in an age marked by resurgent idolatry, syncretism, and moral compromise.
While referencing James 4:12, Rt. Rev’d Dr. Okupevi called for humility in episcopal ministry. He warned that the dignity and privileges of high office can easily tempt church leaders toward pride and self-exaltation. He ended his sermon with the hymn, “Courage, brothers, do not stumble,” urging continued trust in God while faithfully doing what is right.
Rt. Rev’d Dr. Okupevi welcomed the Primate and Mama Nigeria, and all delegates to Lagos Diocese, the mother of many dioceses. He gave thanks to God for journey mercies granted to all participants.
The service featured rich moments of reverent worship, the reaffirmation of faith through the Nicene Creed, solemn prayers, and the singing of hymns that inspired reflection and devotion.
The Primate expressed deep appreciation to the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos and Mama Lagos for graciously hosting the retreat, for the love and hospitality extended to the bishops and their wives. He also thanked the Provost, The Very Rev’d Segun Ladeinde, and the other clergy who assisted the Bishop of Lagos in officiating the service.
He formally welcomed all the bishops and wives, thanking God for granting them safe travels from their various Episcopal Sees. The Primate also gave an overview of the retreat schedule, stressing the need for strict and timely adherence to the programme. He encouraged everyone to participate fully, noting that the core essence of the retreat is captured in the four “Rs”: Rest, Reflection, Refreshing, and Refire.
The Primate reminded the gathering that Tuesday, 6 January, is the Feast of Epiphany and urged everyone to attend the early morning Holy Communion service. He mentioned the Fathers of the Faith assigned to officiate, as well as others assigned to various aspects of the retreat.
The congregation was dismissed with the Benediction and the closing hymn, “Abide With Me, Fast Falls the Eventide,” entrusting all present into God’s loving care for the night
