It was a moment of joy for many as Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim, elevated five Canons to Archdeacons, while eleven Reverends were collated canons at the Cathedral Church of Saint Faith, Awka.
The service was presided over by Most Reverend Ibezim who is also the Bishop of Awka Diocese. It attracted other Bishops, Priests from other Dioceses, traditional rulers, Council of Knights, parishioners and well wishers.
Most Reverend Ibezim said it requires hard work, focus and fervent prayers for one to be in the ministry, adding that the preferment was done, having examined the performances of the Priests and their output, reminding the newly installed Archdeacons and collated Canons that their primary aim of being in the ministry is to win Souls for Christ.
Earlier in a sermon, Rt. Rev. Festus Sobanke who is the Bishop, Omu-Aran Missionary Diocese, explained that religious servants like the priest should be faithful in their service to God.
While decorating the new Archdeacons wives as the Vice Presidents Mothers’ Union, the President, Mothers’ Union, Women’s Guild and Girls Guild, Province Of The Niger, Mrs Martha Ibezim charged the women to give their husbands necessary support and build their homes with fervent prayers, so as to have effective ministry.
Speaking shortly after the service, two of the newly installed Archdeacons, Venerable Dr Rex Kanu and Venerable Nehemiah Ugoagu, on behalf of others, thanked God who found them worthy of the elevation, assuring that they will make Soul winning, evangelism and mission, their watchword.
While the newly collated Canons, Reverend Canon Benjamin Osisioma and Reverend Samuel Ezunu reasoned that by the elevation they are called for more work, greater commitment to the work of the ministry, assuring of their loyalty to the Archbishop.
