The Archbishop of Abuja, Methodist Church Nigeria, the Most Rev. Michael Akinwale has said that handing over Nigeria’s affairs to God is the only panacea to the economic quagmire facing the country.
At the commencement of the activities to mark 40 years of the church’s presence in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday, Dr. Akinwale told the media that “the leaders should be truthful to the nation”.
Using the example of “In God we trust” inscription on the American currency, the Archbishop said that “if Nigeria returns to God and lean on Him, He will heal our land of her multi-faceted problems”.
He further said “We should take this nation back to God. There is confusion everywhere. It is not for us to be condemning our leaders. Prophet Joel said, like the leaders, like the led. Righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach.
“Nigerians should ask God to change the heart of our leaders to be compassionate. John 15:5 says that, apart from me, you can do nothing. We must acknowledge the fact that we can do nothing without God”.
He said that “it is against this background and the impact of the Methodist Church in Abuja within the last 40 years that has necessitated the rolling out of the drum as we celebrate 40 years of scriptural holiness, 40 years of effective evangelism, 40 years of social services, and 40 years of church planting”, among others.
Earlier, the Archdiocesan Lay President, Sir John Kayode-Beckley had welcomed Methodist faithfuls and the media to the season of celebration of God’s faithfulness, goodness and in the convergence of humanity and divinity.
Dr. Kayode-Beckley said that it is a season to appreciate God for how far He has helped the church in the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the assurance of further exploit.
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Sir Charles Akpabio appreciated God for His sustaining grace and the opportunity to gather all Methodist members in the Archdiocese for the landmark celebration.
The Bishop of Nyanya, Rt. Rev. Kehinde Adeyemi and Bishop of Kubwa (Archbishop -elect), Rt. Rev. Ogan Igwe led other leaders of the church to join the Archbishop at the event.
The press conference flagged off a five-week celebration of 40 years of Methodism in Abuja. Several activities are lined up with the grand finale thanksgiving service holding on Sunday, 13 October 2024.
