The Anglican Bishop of Isuikwuato, Umunnochi Diocese, Abia state, Rt. Rev. Manasses Okere has lauded the gradual resumption of schools across the country to enable the exit classes prepare for their entrance examination.
He however cautioned against quick resumption of other classes to ensure the successes so far recorded in containing the coronavirus pandemic were not compromised.
Okere spoke on Friday during the first session of the 12th Synod of the Diocese of Awka, Anambra state, themed, “God of Eternal Destiny and His Major Attributes.”, at the All Saints Church, Amaenyi, Awka South Local Government Area of the state.
He acknowledged the agitation by parents to send their children back to school, but advised they exercised patience with the government in view of the health implications.
“The exit classes are already back to school. It’s a gradual process. As much as we want the future of our children, we’ll also want them to be alive. Let’s government protocols be observed,” he said.
Describing COVID-19 as a blessing in disguise, Okeke who was the guest preacher at the synod said the pandemic, though with its attended calamities, had brought fortunes to the citizenry, including re-uniting many families in prayers.
He added, “God is aware COVID-19 will come the time it came. Nothing happens to God by surprise. He’s in charge of his creatures. All things worketh together, whether good or bad for the good of God’s children.
“COVID-19 has brought good fortunes, though has caused havoc. It has re-united families. People sat down with their families to pray.
“People has turned to God knowing that science has failed. It’s not God that brought it, but he’s aware that it’s coming, and will work out his purpose through it.
“COVID-19 has also exposed the weakness of our health sectors, exposed us globally. We thank God for the efforts so far, though with a mixture of politics. We continue to look unto God.”