CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR MESSAGE

CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR MESSAGE


December 20, 2006.

GOD WITH WHOM THERE ARE NO IMPOSSIBILITIES Luke 1: 37
To the human mind, many things are impossible. We look around and are awestruck by the seemingly insurmountable tasks that face us. We long for a problem free society, responsible and effective political and religious leadership. We wish all members of our families, colleagues at work, friends and neighbours are not only understanding but are supportive, loving, caring and mutually respectful. We long to being able not only to pay all our bills but also always have more to assist those that cannot. So many laudable ideas are tossed about in our minds but then available scarce resources create doubts and make our utopian dreams seem impossible.
In ages past, God showed Himself to be the God with whom there are no impossibilities. To earth without form and covered with darkness, He commanded light and gave a fascinating creation. To a family isolated and lost in the deluge, to a people enslaved in a foreign land where many thought redemption was impossible, God saved and re-established them. To a shepherd boy not regarded by even his father he gave a sceptre which is still acclaimed today. To an infant hiding for six years from a murdering grandmother, to three faithful captives who would rather sing in a furnace than serve another god, God not only vindicated, He saved and uplifted.
To a colonized race still hallucinating about a deliverer, to an aged couple well stricken in age and mockingly considered ‘barren’, to a young girl who wondered how possible it was for a chaste girl to be pregnant; God in the incarnation confounded all the wisdom of the world and took unawares those watching for signs. Again and again, God breaks through the natural trend of events to show Himself as God with whom there are no impossibilities.
To a world which seemed to have everything ‘under control’ but lost about the hereafter, God showed the ‘kingdom of heaven is at hand’. To the young couple who unexpectedly ran out of wine at their wedding feast, He turned jars of tasteless water to the most tasteful wine.
This our God in Christ Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, restored sight to the man born blind, fed thousands from a little provision for a lad and teaches that with faith as tiny as the mustard seed in God, NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE. Even while in pain on the cross, He demonstrated this to the remorseful thief who had the faith to ask for the impossible at the eleventh hour.
Born in one of the lowest possible manner, raised in an humble way, though without sin, he was baptized with the repentant, hated for doing good, condemned out of envy and sacrificed for all humanity, His resurrection showed the possibility of life after death as the tomb remains empty.
As we think and pray to our God in whom we have said there is no impossibility, we also cherish the apt reminder of our brother, Martyn Minns, Bishop of CANA that there are two exceptions to this assertion, two things that are impossible for God. One, God cannot tolerate sin and two God cannot stop loving you and me, Alleluiah!
There is therefore the submission that as we remember and celebrate the birth of the Saviour of the world, Jesus the Christ, we reflect on the possibilities He came to give: new beginning, new life, new heart, love in spite of all the hurt the world throws on our doorsteps, hope in spite of all pitiable situations and assurance that faithfully trusting, we are acceptable and indeed welcome to our Maker’s presence. Such reflections should encourage us to reach out to our neighbours, offering gifts of love money cannot buy, forgiveness that promotes reconciliation and above all, sharing the message of salvation available only in Jesus the Christ.
Today, God calls us his children to release ourselves like Noah, Moses, Elizabeth and Mary did, content that His will be done in our lives. We are to be bold like Joshua, David, Elijah, Shadrach and others knowing that greater is He that is in us. God calls to us through Christ to come to the One who knows what is best for us.
As we go into the crucial election period, we urge our politicians to remember that with God, our collective dream for a better Nigeria will be realized God using whosoever he chooses; “for except the LORD builds the house, they labour in vain that build it..” We ask that all eligible citizens register and be God-conscious in casting their votes. We look forward to God working in us all to build a godly country free from the evils of corruption, ethnic, political and religious violence, and one in which all the ideals which now seem impossible to the human mind become the norm.
May we all experience the presence and redeeming power of God breaking through into our difficult and humanly impossible situations this holy season and in the coming New Year.
The Lord be with you.

+Peter Abuja. .

LARGE AMERICAN CHURCHES VOTE TO JOIN CANA: "This is a new chapter"

LARGE AMERICAN CHURCHES VOTE TO JOIN CANA: "This is a new chapter"
CONN/771206

December 17th, 2006
A Press Release from The Falls Church and Truro Church
FAIRFAX and FALLS CHURCH, Va., Dec. 17 – The Falls Church and Truro Church reported today that both congregations voted overwhelmingly to sever ties with The Episcopal Church in the U.S. and join the Convocation of Anglicans in North America, or CANA.
Of the 1,348 eligible voting members casting ballots at The Falls Church this past week, 1,228, or 90 percent, voted in favor of the first question, or “resolution,” on the ballot about whether to sever ties. On the second and final resolution, 1,279 of 1,350 eligible members, or 94 percent, voted in favor of retaining the church’s real and personal property.
Of the 1,095 eligible voting members casting ballots at Truro Church, 1,010, or 92 percent voted in favor of severing ties. On the second resolution, 1,034 of 1,095 eligible members, or 94 percent, voted in favor of retaining Truro’s real and personal property. Both churches used essentially identical ballots. The specific text of each resolution at The Falls Church follows at the end of this release.
Each of these churches conducted their votes as part of a congregational meeting. They followed steps recommended by a “protocol” for departing congregations unanimously recommended by a Special Committee of the Diocese of Virginia and supported by Bishop Peter Lee.
That protocol states that a “70% majority of the votes cast shall be necessary” to support separating from the Episcopal Church. It also states that if the vote to disaffiliate passes by the 70% majority, a second vote, also requiring a 70% majority, is needed for the “departing congregations” to be able to leave with their “real and personal property” at a price to be negotiated later.
“This is a new chapter for The Falls Church and other congregations voting thus far and early next year,” said the Rev. John Yates, Rector, The Falls Church. “While we look forward to continuing a productive role in the Anglican Communion, we harbor no ill will to our colleagues in the Diocese of Virginia. And we agree, as Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has indicated, that when two groups have irreconcilable differences, the pastoral thing to do is find a gracious way to separate.”
“Our churches conducted our congregational votes by following the straight-forward procedures established by the Virginia legislature,” said Jim Oakes, Senior Warden of Truro Church. “Our churches have also held congregational votes in line with the protocol established by Bishop Lee’s Special Committee. We fully expect to amicably resolve all questions regarding the status of our clergy and our property.”
CANA is missionary initiative of the Church of Nigeria and the Anglican District of Virginia. It will provide oversight and a U.S.-based structure for these northern Virginia churches leaving the Diocese of Virginia.
“This has been an extraordinary journey,” said Tom Wilson, Senior Warden of The Falls Church. “It was heartening to see so many of our people take part in this process and speak clearly where we stand. We look forward to our future as active members serving Christ in the Anglican Communion.”

GLOBAL SOUTH ACTS ON ALTERNATIVE PRIMATIAL OVERSIGHT

GLOBAL SOUTH ACTS ON ALTERNATIVE PRIMATIAL OVERSIGHT
CONN/761106
Report from:

Global South Steering Committee Meeting, Nov 15-17, 2006 The Global South Steering Committee, at the request of the Global SouthPrimates, recently met with bishops and representatives of eight AnglicanCommunion Network Dioceses who have appealed to the Archbishop of
Canterbury and the Global South Primates for various forms of Alternative
Primatial Oversight. Representatives of other Windsor-compliant Dioceses
and the more than one hundred congregations that are now separated from
the Episcopal Church also joined us.Respective presentations were received expressing the increasingly difficultand, in some cases, untenable situations in which they attempt to live outapostolic faith and historic order. We were distressed to hear of thelegalistic and autocratic environment in which some now find themselves asthey seek to remain faithful Anglicans within The Episcopal Church.The Steering Committee will be making its report and recommendation to theGlobal South Primates when they next meet and will also be sharing them withthe Archbishop of Canterbury. Deeply touched by the oftentimes painful andgravely disconcerting testimonies that we heard, the Global South SteeringCommittee feels morally and spiritually compelled to reassert its deepestsolidarity with these orthodox and faithful bishops and representatives.We express our unequivocal support and heartfelt recognition for their faithful
stand and struggles. We urge all faithful members and parishes of these
concerned dioceses to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ as our
one and only Lord and Savior during these turbulent days. We will do all in
our power to bring about the desired outcome of the Windsor process so that
the refined global Anglican Communion can be faithful to its vocation as part
of the One, Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.

CHRISTIAN LEADERS VISIT SULTAN'S PALACE

CHRISTIAN LEADERS VISIT SULTAN'S PALACE
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Peter Onwubuariri,

Abuja, Nov. 1, 2006- A delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Tuesday paid a condolence visit to the Sultanate Council in Sokoto following the death of Alhaji Mohammed Maccido, who died with his two sons in the ill-fated ADC Flight 053.

The delegation which was led by the National President of CAN, The Most Rev Peter Akinola arrived the palace of the late Sultan at about noon yesterday.

The delegation included the National CAN Secretary, Engr. Samuel Salifu, Anglican Bishop of Kubwa, The Rt. Rev Simon Bala, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, The Rt. Rev Kelvin Aje and Bishop Augustine Omole of Sokoto diocese (Anglican Communion).

Others are Dr Haruna Karakou, CAN Secretary Sokoto State branch and a woman representative Mrs. Cecilia Esueme.

Speaking on behalf of the delegates, Archbishop Peter Akinola described the Sultan as a good and patient man who worked for peace during his lifetime.

In 2005, the CAN President and the Sultan, spiritual leader of Muslims in the country co-chaired the Federal Government Committee on the Tsunami Disaster.

According to Akinola, the Sultan had a fatherly figure that greatly endeared him to most people that came in contact with him.

Responding Governor Attahiru Bafarawa of Sokoto State acknowledged that the late Sultan was committed to the on-going dialogue on the peaceful co-existence between Christians and Muslims in the country and pleaded that his legacy should be bequeathed to all men of goodwill.

Engr. Samuel Salifu, CAN Secretary, who traveled ahead of the CAN delegation to Sokoto, said Christians in the state were grieved over the death of the sultan, members of his families and other citizens of the state killed in the plane crash.

According to him, the state Christian community revered the late Sultan as ‘a man of peace’ and is praying that his successor would maintain his belief on the peaceful co-existence of both faiths in the country.

CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CAN)

CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CAN)
Head Office: National Christian Centre, Central Area, Garki, Abuja 09-6706063


PRESS RELEASE
ABUJA, OCTOBER 30, 2006

CONDOLENCE

To: The President, Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Cc: The Senate President
Hon. Speaker, House of Representatives
The Governor, Sokoto State
The Press, for All Nigerians


On behalf of the Christian Community in Nigeria, we write to express our condolence to the President, Houses of Assembly, Sokoto State Government and indeed all who have been affected by the shocking news of another crash of a commercial aircraft near the Abuja airport yesterday.

We mourn with our Muslim brothers the untimely, cruel and most tragic loss of one of the foremost spiritual and traditional leaders in our Country, His Eminence Alhaji Maccido Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and the President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), his son and grandson who were victims of the air crash.

We also mourn the loss of other prominent leaders and patriotic, peace loving and progress seeking Nigerians including two Senators, a Deputy Governor and a State Commissioner. We pray that the comforting presence of God will be felt all over the land healing pains and drying tears of those that have lost very dear ones. We join in prayers for the healing of the wounds of the survivors. We trust the departed souls have returned to the Almighty and encourage everyone to ‘prepare to meet your God’.

Again, this air crash has thrown the entire nation into mourning and air travelers into a state of despair, panic and anxiety as air travel has become almost definitely synonymous with a journey to the grave.

Only last month the nation lost some of its best and brightest in the Armed forces in an air crash en-route Calabar. Barely a year ago, there was the Bellview air crash at Lisa village closely followed by the Sosoliso Air crash at Port Harcourt airport. There have also been several air crash misses in the last one year. This air crash is definitely one too many.

Clearly, all the effort at sanitizing the Aviation industry in Nigeria is yet to produce tangible results essential to engender the much needed confidence, safety and patronage in the Country; though flying is said to be the safest means of travel worldwide. Curiously, the public is yet to be informed of the causes of the previous crashes in the past and one wonders if there is a grand collusion to prevent the public from knowing the truth. In other parts of the world, report on those investigations would have become public property long ago.

We call on the Aviation Authorities to ensure that this air crash is speedily investigated and the report made public along with the previous ones immediately. The government owes this to the generality of Nigerians and the many families who have had to bear the brunt of this colossal waste of valuable and much needed human lives cut down in their prime.


SIGNED

Most Revd. Peter J. Akinola, CON, DD
President of Christian Association of Nigeria
and Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion)

UYO and JALINGO BISHOPS FOR CONSECRATION ON 26TH NOVEMBER

UYO and JALINGO BISHOPS FOR CONSECRATION ON 26TH NOVEMBER
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Abuja, 26th October
Sunday 26th November has been announced as the date for the consecration of the Venerable Isaac Orama of St’ Andrew’s Church Rumuobiokani, Port Harcourt as the bishop of the diocese of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State., and the Rev. Canon Timothy Yahaya of St’ Luke’s Cathedral, Birnin Kebbi as the bishop of Jalingo diocese, Taraba State.

The event is scheduled to take place at the Cathedral of Advent, Gwarinpa, Abuja beginning at 10.00am. As usual, the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of the Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev. Peter J. Akinola is expected to preside and be assisted by other archbishops and bishops of the church.

ELECTION 2007: Look at the candidates not the political party - Anglican bishop

ELECTION 2007:
Look at the candidates not the political party - Anglican bishop
(Article culled from THIS DAY newspaper, October 24, 2006)

CONN/0711006
By Amby Uneze Owerri
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Egbu in Imo State , Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Iheagwam has advised Nigerians to vote in credible candidates in the forthcoming elections in the country, as doing so would usher in God's blessing and avert any impending national disaster.
He said people should look out for those candidates who are credible and not minding political party they belong; adding that Nigeria stands to gain plentifully if things are done aright as such things would give God the glory to continue to bless the country.
Bishop Iheagwam, who was speaking on the activities, lined up for the 2006 Synod of the diocese, scheduled from November 4 - 7th, 2006, called on Nigerians to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a free and fair elections.
According to him, he believed that the INEC was desirous to give Nigerians credible elections, considering the numerous programmes outlined by the Commission, regretting Nigerians were not being fair to them.
Throwing more light on the Synod, the Cleric, who was flanked by the Chairman Planning Committee of the Synod, Okenze Ubochi Osigwe and Dame Comfort Obi, publisher of the Sources Magazine, said the venue of the Synod would be St. John's (Anglican) Church, Ihiagwa, Owerri West Local Government of Imo State.
Those expected to grass the occasion are the Governors of Imo, Abia and Bayelsa States , Chief Achike Udenwa, who would read the first Bible lesson; Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu (second Bible lesson) and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, as the Synod Guest Lecturer.
The theme of this year's Synod, according Bishop Iheagwam is "Every branch that bears fruit He prunes ", while the Presidential Address/Charge would be delivered on Monday, November 6.
He described Synod as a gathering of some members of a diocese and her special invitees from outside to assess the performance of the Diocese in the current year and based on the reports to formulate policies that would guide it in the subsequent year, adding Synod is also interested in secular matters both within the country and outside and after a careful analysis issues a communiqué or resolutions

OVER 20 NEW DIOCESES TO BE INAUGURATED IN 2007

OVER 20 NEW DIOCESES TO BE INAUGURATED IN 2007
CONN/0701006

The Church of Nigeria pushes on with the mission to disciple as many as God grants amongst Nigeria’s large population. To this end, the last Standing Committee of the church held in September in Port Harcourt, Rivers State approved the establishment of 19 new missionary dioceses and advised 7 other regions to go through the normal process for the creation of full fledged dioceses.

The proposed dioceses are Awgu/Aninri and Ngwo from Enugu diocese, Ikwo, Afikpo and Ngbo from Abakaliki diocese, Ogbaru from On the Niger, Etche from Niger Delta North, Isiala Ngwa South from Aba,. Kotangora from Minna, Zaria from Kaduna, while Jos diocese will produce Bukuru and another diocese encompassing the communities in Pankshin / Langtang / Shendam / Yelwa and Wase areas.

Others missionary diocese are Etsako and Akoko-Edo from Sabongidda-Ora diocese, New Bussa and Omu-Aran from Kwara, Ajayi Crowther and Oke-Ogun from Oyo, whilst Ifo will come from Egba diocese.

Other communities considered for missionary dioceses but were deemed to have enough Anglican presence to support full fledged dioceses include Festac/Ojo in Lagos-West, Nike in Enugu, Aba Ngwa North and Isiala Ngwa in Aba, Ikole Ekiti in Ekiti, Egba-West in Egba diocese and Ekiti-Kwara in Kwara diocese.

The inauguration of the missionary dioceses and consecration of their bishops have been slated for March/ April next year while dates for the full fledged dioceses will depend on when they complete the new diocese creation process. This process involves getting their individual synods to approve the splitting of the diocese, organize funding for the proposed diocese, put in place some organizational structures like the diocesan offices, Cathedral and residence and finally get the national approval at a Standing Committee or General Synod meeting.

Missionary dioceses on the other hand usually come about based on a perceived need to evangelize a wide area and effectively empower the missionaries and fledging churches with dedicated Episcopal supervision from the start.

The only other major concern for missionary dioceses is funding and sponsors are sought for to provide at least N3 million Naira annually for three years after which the diocese is expected to become self-reliant.

History of Missionary Dioceses
When the Church of Nigeria became an independent province in 1979, the entire northern Nigeria was administered as a diocese with headquarters in Kaduna. Today, the region is comprised of three Provinces and twenty seven dioceses with more to come. “The spread and growth of the church in the previously Muslim and Animist communities had been aided by the establishment of missionary dioceses” says Archbishop Akinola whose Abuja diocese started off as a missionary initiative of the Church of Nigeria but is now a fully self sustaining and self propagating diocese from which two other dioceses have been craved out over the years.

The Dioceses of Jos and Kano were created from the Northern diocese in 1980 and in 1989 the Abuja mission was inaugurated as a diocese. The major push however came during the Lambeth declared ‘decade of evangelism’ as the then Archbishop Adetiloye led church decided that no state, community or tribe should be overlooked in the evangelism effort. Dependence of the missions on the busy and greatly overstretched bishops was slowing things down while the rate of growth of the newly inaugurated dioceses was alarming.

With the leading of the Holy Spirit, the church embarked on missionary dioceses with the focus of developing the Anglican Christian presence into such that can stand as a diocese within three years. The stringent requirements for viability of the diocese were relaxed and others were encouraged to support the mission work in the new areas.

Eight such dioceses were inaugurated in Northern Nigeria in September 1990, two in the Niger delta region,1990 and 1992 and by 1996, the success of the northern dioceses led to the establishment of five more missionary dioceses there to cater for yet unexplored areas.

Southern Eye-Opener
Until recently, most areas south of the country refuse missionary diocese with a Nigerian pride of “We can support a full one by ourselves.” A recent experiment in Umuahia south-eastern Nigeria has however shown that this is an impediment to evangelism, and there is now a loud clamor for missionary dioceses from the largely Christian south.

In 2004, the diocese of Umuahia identified three missionary areas which were inaugurated as missionary dioceses in March 2005. The bishop of Umuahia Rt. Rev I. N. Nwosu reported to the next General synod that the missionary move has resulted in the establishment of thirty four new churches in the four dioceses within six months! Bishop J. C. Onuoha, one of the missionary bishops corroborating the report said the major handicap is finance as he has requests from other village heads who now want churches in their domain.

Finance has been the major handicap and some schools of thought express fear concerning the sustenance of the dioceses. Others think the establishment of dioceses is based on perceived ambition of some clergy for positions. Archbishop Akinola would have none of this. “Funding is not my problem. My Father in heaven owns the earth and He has said GO! The provision of funds should not be my problem but the Sender’s. The work is His, the Glory is His. God wants the Gospel preached and people discipled for Christ. We are expected to ‘Go’ and be trusting and faithful.” He said while charging everyone to prayerfully seek God’s leading and direction to the resources God has provided for His work instead of ‘celebrating laziness’ because of lack of funds.

Election of Bishops
On personal ambitions, Bishop Onuoha said that should not be a problem. “No person can nominate himself for election as a bishop. My own election was a surprise to me. I did not even dream my name would be nominated not to talk of election. In fact, the constitution and canons of the church makes it difficult for ambitious self-servers to become bishops.” He said missionary bishops are more of field evangelists rather than the urban diocesan administrators who wield power and influence. I did not covet this position and I do not think anyone who understands the task and associated weight would do so.

The process for the election of the bishops for the new dioceses has begun with letters written to the concerned Advisory Committees to meet and forward to the Primate in writing the views of the Committee in general terms on the qualifications (including level of education, parish experience, commitment, acceptability, etc.) required in the Bishop to be elected for the consideration of the Episcopal Synod.

Such views are then forwarded to all members of the Episcopal Synod for prayerful considerations before a meeting is conveyed for the election. Other election details are available online in the Canon IV of the Election of Bishops.

GLOBAL SOUTH ANGLICAN LEADERS: "We will not abandon the poor or persecuted"

GLOBAL SOUTH ANGLICAN LEADERS: "We will not abandon the poor or persecuted"
CONN/691006
Peter Onwubuariri, Abuja

Leaders of the Global South of the Anglican Communion have pledged their commitment to the welfare of the poor and the persecuted worldwide.

Their declaration came after a visit to the Kigali Genocide Museum in Rwanda, a memorial of the 250,000 helpless victims killed during the Rwandan Genocide, 12 years ago.

A statement following a four-day meeting which ended Sept. 22 in Kigali described Global South Leaders as having prayed and wept at the mass grave of the victims of the Rwanda Genocide.

According to the statement, the Global South Leaders, who are mainly from Africa, Asia, Australia and South America and who represent more than half of worldwide Anglicans, were ‘chastened’ by the experience of visiting the Genocide museum.

In a gripping tone, the statement said: “we… commit ourselves not to abandon the poor or the persecuted wherever they may be and in whatever circumstances. We add our voices to their and we say, “Never Again.”.



They warned that in spite of the memories of the Rwandan genocide, several countries in the Southern hemisphere are still consumed in the middle of dangerous conflict.

“We are very aware of the agonizing situation in the Sudan. We appreciate and commend the Sudanese Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the North and the South.”

“We dare not, however, close our eyes to the devastating situation in Darfur. We are conscious of the complexities but there must be no continuation of the slaughter.”

They called on all Provinces in the Anglican Communion and the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Darfur, Sudan.

On an upbeat note, the statement acknowledged the reconciling power of God’s love at work in Rwanda and Burundi following the completion of a ceasefire agreement between government and the Paliphehutu-FNL.

Describing the turn of events as ‘occasions for hope for the future’, the Church Leaders lauded the gradual return of peace in Northern Uganda and the elections due to take place in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Archbishop Peter Akinola of Nigeria is Chairman of the Global South and the Kigali meeting was attended by representatives of 20 provinces in the Anglican Communion.
These include Bangladesh Burundi, Central Africa, Church of South India, Congo, Indian Ocean, Jerusalem and Middle East. Others are Kenya, Myanmar, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, Southern Africa, South East Asia, Southern Cone, Sudan,

FROM CARPENTER TO PRIMATE: Ambassador Sagay writes on Abp. Akinola.

FROM CARPENTER TO PRIMATE:
Ambassador Sagay writes on Abp. Akinola.
(Article in THE GUARDIAN of Sunday 1st October, 2006 reproduced with permission)

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HIS GRACE ARCHBISHOP PETER AKINOLA:
FROM CARPENTER TO PRIMATE- CELEBRATING HIS PURPOSE-DRIVEN LIFEIn the 8th May, 2006 issue of TIME (a prestigious magazine with global reach) His Grace The Most Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola CON, DD Archbishop Metropolitan And Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), was nominated as one of the One Hundred Personalities world-wide, whose lives and ideas have made them the world’s most influential persons. For the record, I quote TIME citation that accompanied the “African Personality Award” given to the Anglican Primate, in which he is numbered second among the ranks of “World Leaders and Revolutionaries” of which only 21 were so recognized world-wide. Dubbed the man with “The Strength of a Lion”’ this is what TIME magazine said of the Archbishop:“Nigerian Anglican Archbishop Peter Akinola captured headlines last year for leading the world-wide revolt of evangelical Anglicans against the ordination of gay bishops in the U.S. by the Episcopal Church. But to caricature his ministry with that one issue, would severely underestimate his importance. Akinola personifies the epochal change in the Christian church, namely that the leadership, influence, growth and center of gravity in Christianity is shifting from the northern hemisphere to the southern. New African, Asian and Latin American church leaders like Akinola, 61, are bright, biblical, courageous and willing to point out the inconsistencies, weaknesses and theological drift in Western churches.With nearly 18 million active Anglicans in Nigeria, Akinola’s flock dwarfs the mother Church of England’s membership. And since he is chairman of the 37 million-member Council of Anglican Provinces in Africa, when he speaks, far more than just Anglicans pay attention. Akinola has the strength of a lion, useful in confronting Third World fundamentalism and First World relativism. He has been criticized for recent remarks of frustration that some felt exacerbated Muslim-Christian clashes in his country. But Christians are routinely attacked in parts of Nigeria, and his anger was no more characteristic than Nelson Mandela’s apartheid-era statement that, “sooner or later this violence is going to spread to whites”. I believe he, like Mandela, is a man of peace and his leadership is a model for Christians around the world”.Surely, this accolade coming from the usually jaundiced opinion of the Western World News media about African personalities, represents a profoundly positive paradigmatic shift, particularly, since the personality involved is a Nigerian. And this at a time, when Nigeria is once again being pilloried from pillar to post, as a result of a multitude of malfeasance, attributed to her citizens, to the extent that many in the West have begun once again, to regard contact with Nigerians with dread, revulsion, and apprehension. It is indeed most pleasing, that among the great men of our generation, many of whom have betrayed their trust as leaders, it is a man of God, and not politicians in the high councils of government, or captains of industry, that the world has singled out for greatness. To God be the glory.And so, as to the perennial question of whether the Church has failed Nigerians, God in Christ through Archbishop Peter Akinola gives the resounding reply of “No”. Inevitably, but predictably, many Nigerians will ask, why Archbishop Akinola, and what’s so special about him? Who indeed is this enigmatic personality, who has come to lime-light through his dogmatic advocacy of the essential truth of the Bible? Let us start with his full name, and abridged bio-data. He is addressed as, His Grace The Most Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola CON, DD Archbishop Metropolitan And Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion). In addition, he is the current President of The Christian Association Of Nigeria (CAN), Chairman, Council of Anglican Provinces in Africa, and Chairman, South-South Encounter Of The Anglican Communion. He has been honoured with the National Award of Commander Of The Order of The Niger (CON), December 2003. Laudable as these accomplishments are, they still do not tell us much about the inner man behind the veil –the shepherd with the heart of a lion. Outside of the hallowed precincts of the Church and his Bishop’s Court, this “Lion” is self-effacing almost to the point of meekness; nevertheless, such is his aura and “presence”, that despite his elegantly casual way of dressing, especially when traveling in cognito, (in civilian mufti), no-one could fail to notice him when he passes by, or enters a room. And when he opens his mouth to speak, authority and command issue forth, to compel your attention. The magic is in his voice! His voice is a cross between a muffled trumpet sound and an Army commandant’s barking orders during parade. His English when he addresses an audience, is totally without Oxford accent affectation, yet it has the resonance and clarity of a bell. It is authoritative, yet pleasing and re-assuring. His assertions carry a note of finality –not unlike Pilate’s, “what I have written (spoken) I have written (spoken)” No listener is left in doubt, or wondering as to what is meant –he means what he says, and says what he means to say –without ambiguity. He has the spell-binding gift of the anointed, and leaves no one in doubt that he is the oracle of God, speaking the mind of Christ, especially in his prophetic pronouncements, based on the hidden truths of the Scriptures. You feel the Power in God’s Words, as they cascade and issue forth from the spiritual well-spring of his inner being. Let me tell this story, by way of illustration, and as a testimony –and to God be the glory! On the Sunday morning that preceded the demise of the late General Abacha (rumored to have occurred, sometime between mid-night Sunday and the early hours of Monday). I was among the worshippers at All Saints Anglican Church, Wuse Zone 5 when the Primate, then Bishop of Abuja Diocese, mounted the pulpit to preach the 7 am Communion Service Sermon. He took his Text from Exodus 14:13-15 against the background of a nation and its people, that seemed to be now at the point of exhaustion, and suffering from the trauma of irreversible frustration, as a result of seemingly unanswered prayers by a God, who seemed too far away to hear, or whose Hand had apparently become too short to save them from the calamity of dictatorial rule and exploitation: “Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.Then the LORD said to Moses, “why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on…”. After a brief interval of spiritual introspection the “Lion” of All Saints Church and Bishop of Abuja Diocese, confronted his Maker- he dared to challenge God! Looking earnestly upwards to heaven, he addressed the Trinitarian and Omnipotent God, in exhortations which went something like this: “God, I know that you answer prayers and I know that even now you are there and hear us. I know this because I am your Bishop, shepherd of your flock. But these people sitting down here no longer believe that you are there, they have broken down in despair because you have so far, inspite of endless prayers, not heeded their prayerful request to heal this nation. I tell them of your omnipotence and everlasting love for them, but they no longer believe me. But Lord, I believe and have faith in you, because I am your Bishop. Lord, heal their unbelief and strengthen their faith. Do something! Show that you are the God of heaven and earth, and that your omnipotence endures forever. Do something! Do something!! I thank you Lord for answered prayers.” Then, turning belligerently to the congregation he shouted, “why are you crying to God?” Do something yourself –give praise and thanksgiving, even as things stand now. The scriptures say, in all things give thanks! Let us now pray with thanksgiving, in full assurance of answered prayers.”That Sunday night, our God who neither slumbers nor sleep, who is not deaf that he cannot hear while we pray, and whose hand is not too short that he cannot save, gave his thunderous reply from his celestial abode in the Heavens of Heavens. No cloud covered the brilliant night sky that Sunday night, and no rain threatened; then suddenly, at about the midnight hour, there came the Almighty roar of salvoes upon salvoes of dry thunder, preceded by flashes of lightning which rent and cris-crossed the Abuja skies; this went on unremittingly for about an hour. In the morning, a dazed and incredulous nation heard the news; it was clear to those of us of little faith, that the Lord God Almighty reigneth! Our God is a consuming fire!! To Him be the glory. Gloria In Excelsis!But the result of the Primate’s prayerful exploits on this occasion, was not known to TIME, and therefore could not have been the reason why he was bestowed with the honour of “African Personality Award” of the Year 2006. But the encounter equipped him with the faith and courage, which enabled him to deal with the confrontation with other Bishops which lay ahead. A less courageous leader could have dodged the crisis, which had the potential capacity to under-mine the faith of many Christians in the Church of God –not only in Nigeria but all over the world. For a man who “wrestled” with God, and had his faith vindicated, what is man, according to Isaiah, that he should be afraid of him, particularly when executing Christ’s mandate of universal evangelism? For this lion-hearted man of God, the Great Commission issued by the Lord Jesus to, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you”, means evangelism without national frontiers, or ecumenical Marginot Line or forbidden doctrinal sanctuaries. When the Call came for the defense of the integrity of God’s Word and the execution of Christ’s command, against proselytizing priests, and other manifestations of religious kant and apostasy, he knew exactly where to cast his lot. This servant of the Most High God, who rose from being a mere carpenter to become Archbishop Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion) knew, instinctively, that his hour had come, and that he was born and sanctified for this very purpose –to defend the faith against all those who attempt to replace the truth of the Gospel, with their own version of the, “gospel of easy salvation”. Rejecting the tempting delusions of accommodation with evil, he chose instead to uphold the faith, undiluted. Rather than partake in the frivolity of convenience Christianity, in the name of progress and modernity for the sake of cheap popularity and the praise of his peers, he chose the cross of alienation by his fellow clergymen. Indeed, for those familiar with his ways, his spiritually inspired principled stand against the might of revisionist gospellers in the Christian Churches of the Northern hemisphere, was as predictable as it was inevitable. But what gives his opposition validity and integrity, is that he regards the fight for the soul and sanctity of the Church, against the depredation of deviant homosexual Priests, as the Lord’s –and not as some say –a personal ego trip. Moreover, his avowed intent is not to discredit others, but to engage in peaceful dialogue that could lead to voluntary repentance and re-absorption into the true fellowship of the Holy Priesthood, as ordained by Christ.What may, sometimes, appear to his critics, as brow-beating and impatient haste, is actually the intensity of his earnestness to “move on”; for him there is no standing still or backsliding. Indeed, what best encapsulates his work ethos, in regard to evangelism, is the theme he chose for the Second Session of the Sixth Synod of the Abuja Diocese held at All Saints Church, Wuse zone 5 (May 11-14, 2006):“Work, For The Night Is Coming”. This text is taken from John 9:4. Jesus said, “As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work”.So, he has no patience with those who advocate for pampering tolerance and patience, to allow the march of history, reverse the aberration of Priestly homosexuality and same-sex marriage, being foisted on the Church by a handful of Bishops and other church leaders, sworn to uphold, and preach the truth of the gospel, and the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, in which you will not find accommodation with the evil of immorality and sexual permissiveness. Indeed, his sense of urgency to have things done NOW, while it is day, is legendary and well-known within the Nigerian Anglican Communion hierarchy. While others spend 20-50 years to complete the building of Cathedrals, Akinola built his Cathedral –Cathedral of the Advent –in one year! The uncompleted Christian Ecumenical Centre, which had stood as the Christian shame of Abuja for over 20 years, was within 4 years speedily completed under his leadership as President of CAN, and now stands as the breath-taking, glittering architectural showpiece of Abuja metropolis. The ordination of Bishops that, heretofore, was a few and far between event, for Akinola as Primate, there has been a harvest of newly ordained Bishops every so often, in order to meet with the demands of his purpose-driven evangelism –to spread the sweet fragrance of the aroma of Christ, through the preaching of the gospel, throughout the nation and beyond, where spiritually starving souls are waiting to be nourished. He is the Bishop not of tomorrow, but the Apostle of Salvation today –NOW! Also, he regards punctuality to religious events or church services in the same light. For him, there are no excusable or extenuating circumstances for lateness –for putting church service on hold, because of the late arrival of some dignitaries and V.I.P’s. When this occurs, his usual response is an aggressive, “How dare you keep the Lord’s servant waiting?’ -no matter who you are. Apart from his example of boldness, he has emancipated the Nigerian Anglican Church, from the thralldom and serfdom of religious neo-colonialism, brought about by its financial dependency on the Mother Church in England, and has thus bequeathed to the Nigerian Anglican Church, the priceless legacy of liberty to assert its independence and distinct individuality.So in the person of His Grace the Most Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola, you have the combination of the qualities of the prophetic Moses of The Old Testament Scriptures, and the earnestness and impetuosity of the evangelic Apostle Peter of the New Testament, on whom Christ bestowed the mantle of Shepherd of the church universal. Those who scorn his effervescent evangelism, or deride the rectitude of his unbending faith, need only remember, that the call to which he has answered is the Lord’s, and to him only be ascribed the majesty and honour of his purpose-driven life, in Christ Jesus. Our Lord Jesus Christ said to his disciples, “you did not choose me, I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit –fruit that will last” (John 15:16). This is Primate Akinola’s inheritance from the Lord, an inheritance crowned with a crown of thorns, as was fore-ordained, and presciently fore–knew by the Lord in Jeremiah:“My inheritance has become to me like a lion in the forest.She roars at me; therefore I hate her.Has not my inheritance become to melike a speckled bird of preythat other birds of prey surround and attack?(Jeremiah 12:8)But thanks be to God, for Christ has given us the victory in the person of his servant Peter Jasper Akinola, who has dared to stand up for Christ –unashamed or intimidated by the sneers of detractors, because the God of all comfort has assured:“In this world you will have troubleBut take heart! I have overcome the world”This is the victory that will be celebrated in a Special Thanksgiving Service for His Grace, The Most Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola CON, DD on Saturday 14th October, 2006 at the National Christian Centre, Abuja. The event, which is ecumenical in scope, is being organized by the Fellowship of Christian Patriots, (FCP), in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). It is essentially a service of praise, worship, adoration and thanksgiving; and over 5,000 Christians of diverse faiths, including more than 100 Archbishops and Bishops, both from within and outside Nigeria are expected to participate.The Fellowship Of Christian Patriots (FCP) is a group of Nigerians, whose aim is to promote Christian values and the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, ethics in governance, ecumenism, and religious tolerance. All such like minded persons, are invited to be part of it, so that together we can turn this nation around to seek the face of God –in good works, service, praise and adoration. Seek the Lord, while he may yet be foundWork, for the night is coming when no-one can work.

ANGLICANS SET TO RENEW LINKS WITH CHINESE CHRISTIANS AS ARCHBISHOPS PAY MISSION EXPLORATORY VISIT

ANGLICANS SET TO RENEW LINKS WITH CHINESE CHRISTIANS AS ARCHBISHOPS PAY MISSION EXPLORATORY VISIT
CONN/0671006
INVITATION
While attending the installation of the Archbishop John Chew as the Anglican Primate of South East Asia in February 2006, Archbishop Akinola met with some Chinese Christian leaders who repeatedly invited him to visit the country. The Nigeria Primate and his South East Asia counterpart the Most Rev. John Chew decided to jointly visit the vast country in July 2006. As usual with Abp. Akinola, he went along with a serving bishop of the Church of Nigeria. This time, he was accompanied by the archbishop of Ibadan ecclesiastical province, the Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa.

OFFICIAL RECEPTION
The three Anglican archbishops began the historic visit in Beijing; the country’s capital where they were received by Bishop Michael Fu Tie Shan in the “Great Hall of the People” Bishop Fu Tie Shan is the vice president of the National Peoples Congress, the highest legislative arm of the Chinese government. They also met with Mr. Ye Xiao Wen the Director General (Minister) of the Chinese State Administration for Religious Affairs (SARA). A national ministry in charge of religious affairs.


MEETINGS
The Nigerian archbishops went on to visit the China Catholic Theological Seminary, the China Islam Association and the Nigeria Embassy meeting with the leaders and members of the various institutions. Everywhere, the political and church leaders were all interested in partnering with the Nigerians. The recurring theme was on how we can work together to make this world a better place. Areas of possible collaboration between Nigeria and China were discussed.
Apart from Beijing, Cities and provinces visited included Jinan, Shan Dong province, Yangjing Qing Dao, Jiang Su, Nanjing, Yi Xing and Shanghai, in a very interested 10 day journey. Every where, meetings were held with Church pastors, the provincial Religious Affairs Bureaus (RAB), Christian Councils, and the Three Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM) which is the protestant grouping in China. Experiences were shared and lessons were learnt by both the visitors and the hosts. Other leaders include Hon. Oluwole Coker, the Nigerian Ambassador, Bishop Jin Lu Xian and Rev Dr Cao Sheng-jie, the president of the China Christian Council

Bishop K.H. Ting
The retired nonagenarian Anglican Bishop K. H Ting was especially delighted to see the Anglican bishops and he praised the leadership of Most Rev. Peter Akinola and other Anglican global south primates in keeping and sharing the faith. A hero that survived China’s repression of religion many years ago, he prayed that Nigerian’s evangelical fervor will soon be impacted upon China. As emeritus President of the China Christian council and emeritus Chairman TSPM, he continues to wield enormous influence as a Chinese Christian authority.



EVANGELISM POTENTIAL
The archbishops were impressed with the size, population, and economic development of the great country. They were however challenged that the less than 3% of the population is Christian. As evangelicals, China presents to them, a very fertile ground ready for evangelism.
A visit to nearby Amity printing press in Nanjing shows that China is ready for such a gospel explosion as bibles are being churned out in their millions from this expansive printing concern. Also of interest is the ease at which different translations could be produced. More than three Nigerian languages were noticed being printed there. Nigeria is considering ordering the production of the Fulfulde bible to aid the recent Fulani mission as it reaches out to over 20 million unreached people in West Africa.

China’s Theological Seminaries also betray a readiness for such an evangelistic move. Seminaries visited included the China Catholic Theological Seminary in Beijing, Yanjing Theological Seminary, and Jing-Ling Theological Seminary. Boosting very impressive infrastructures, they stand out as models of environments conducive for the training of Christian ministers.

PLACES OF INTEREST
A visit to China without seeing the famous Great Wall is incomplete and Archbishops Akinfenwa and Akinola were not allowed to make the trip a strictly business one. The Chinese seem proud to show off their country and the did so in style taking the Nigerians to the ‘Great Wall’, the ‘Forbidden City’, Restored Churches, Museums, Factories, and Agricultural projects. It was an ‘eye- opener’ says Abp. Akinfenwa. “One cannot but appreciate the patriotism, dedication, and hard work of the people of China.” It also afforded them the opportunity to meet with the ordinary citizens, workers, and tourists with whom they freely discussed and took pictures.
While attending Sunday worship in a capacity filled church during the trip, Abp. Akinola was invited to address the congregation. The Nigerians were surprised at the end of the service as people, young and old, male and female, surrounded them after the service, requiring from them, autographs on personal bibles and hymn books.

FUTURE
The People’s Republic of China is opening up in many ways. The government should be commended for the support they give to the churches. Due to pressure of other engagements, Abp. John Chew could only be at the first part of the visit, but is expected to join the Global South delegation which is being expected back in China next year. This visit should strengthen the already established ties and seek to re-integrate the Chinese Church back into the Anglican family.
A strengthening of the now established relationship also opens up a vast field of hundreds of millions of people who can now hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Already, Abp. Akinola has hinted the Church of Nigeria of the urgent need to source for missionaries, evangelists, and funding for the great task ahead. The importance of prayers cannot be over-stressed and for the millions of people, who need to hear of the saving grace of God in Jesus the Christ, all are invited to pray for supply of the necessary resources and that the doors of opportunity will remain opened.
ENDS

New bishops elected for Uyo and Jalingo Dioceses.

New bishops elected for Uyo and Jalingo Dioceses.

CONN/0660906


25 September 2006.

Press Release

ELECTION OF BISHOPS FOR UYO AND JALINGO DIOCESES
The Episcopal Synod of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), which was held in St’ Paul’s Cathedral, Port Harcourt, Rivers state, on Saturday, September, 16, 2006, elected the Venerable Isaac Orama of St’ Andrew’s Church Rumuobiokani, Port Harcourt to the vacant See of Uyo, Akwa Ibom state. Also elected at the same meeting was the Rev. Canon Timothy Yahaya of St’ Luke’s Cathedral, Birnin Kebbi to the vacant See of Jalingo, Taraba State.

The position of the Bishop of Uyo became vacant with the retirement of Most Revd Emmanuel Nglass in June this year while Jalingo became vacant due to the translation of the Rt. Revd Simon Mutum in August 2006 to be bishop of the non geographic nomadic mission.

Ven. Orama 50, is the Diocesan Missioner for the diocese of Niger-Delta North while Canon Yahaya 39 is Canon-in-residence in Diocese of Kebbi’s Cathedral. The date and venue for their consecration will be announced later.

Signed

The Rev. Canon AkinTunde Popoola
Director Communication

Global South Primates’ Meeting The Anglican Communion Kigali, Rwanda September 2006 Communiqué

Kigali Communiqué, September 2006
Global South Primates’ Meeting The Anglican Communion Kigali, Rwanda September 2006 Communiqué ________________________________________
1. As Primates and Leaders of the Global South Provinces of the Anglican Communion we gathered at the Hotel des Mille Collines in Kigali, Rwanda, between 19th and 22nd September 2006. We were called together by the Global South Steering Committee and its chairman, Archbishop Peter J. Akinola. Twenty provinces were represented at the meeting*. We are extremely grateful for the warm welcome shown to us by the Right Honorable Bernard Makuza, Prime Minister of the Republic of Rwanda, and the hospitality provided by Archbishop Emmanuel Kolini, members of the House of Bishops of the Church of Rwanda and all of the members of the local organizing committee.
2. We have gathered in Rwanda twelve years after the genocide that tragically engulfed this nation and even its churches. During this time Rwanda was abandoned to its fate by the world. Our first action was to visit the Kigali Genocide Museum at Gisozi for a time of prayer and reflection. We were chastened by this experience and commit ourselves not to abandon the poor or the persecuted wherever they may be and in whatever circumstances. We add our voices to theirs and we say, “Never Again!”
3. As we prayed and wept at the mass grave of 250,000 helpless victims we confronted the utter depravity and inhumanity to which we are all subject outside of the transforming grace of God. We were reminded again that faith in Jesus Christ must be an active, whole-hearted faith if we are to stand against the evil and violence that threaten to consume our world. We were sobered by the reality that several of our Provinces are presently in the middle of dangerous conflicts. We commit ourselves to intercession for them.
4. We are very aware of the agonizing situation in the Sudan. We appreciate and commend the terms of the Sudanese Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the North and the South. We dare not, however, close our eyes to the devastating situation in Darfur. We are conscious of the complexities but there must be no continuation of the slaughter. We invite people from all of the Provinces of the Anglican Communion and the entire international community to stand in solidarity with the men, women and children in Darfur, Sudan.
5. We are here as a people of hope and we have been greatly encouraged as we have witnessed the reconciling power of God’s love at work as this nation of Rwanda seeks to rebuild itself. We have been pleased to hear of positive developments in the neighboring country of Burundi as they have recently completed a cease-fire agreement between their government and the Palipehutu-FNL. We are also beginning to see an end to the conflict in Northern Uganda and we note that the Democratic Republic of the Congo is approaching a historic election that offers promise for a peaceful future. All of these developments are occasions for hope for the future.
6. We have met here as a growing fellowship of Primates and leaders of churches in the Global South representing more than 70 percent of the active membership of the worldwide Anglican Communion. We build on and reaffirm the work of our previous meetings, especially our most recent gathering in Egypt in October 2005. We are mindful of the challenges that face our Communion and recommit ourselves to the abiding truth of the Holy Scriptures and the faithful proclamation of the whole Gospel for the whole world. We recommit ourselves to the vision of our beloved Communion as part of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
7. We recognize that because of the ongoing conflict in the Communion many people have lost hope that we will come to any resolution in the foreseeable future. We are grateful therefore, that one sign of promise is the widespread support for the development of an Anglican Covenant. We are delighted to affirm the extraordinary progress made by the Global South task group on developing an Anglican Covenant. For the past year they have labored on this important task and we look forward to submitting the result of their labor to the rest of the Communion. We are pleased that the Archbishop of Canterbury has recognized the exemplary scholarship and leadership of Archbishop Drexel Gomez in asking him to chair the Covenant Design Group and look forward with anticipation to the crucial next steps of this historic venture. We believe that an Anglican Covenant will demonstrate to the world that it is possible to be a truly global communion where differences are not affirmed at the expense of faith and truth but within the framework of a common confession of faith and mutual accountability.
8. We have come together as Anglicans and we celebrate the gift of Anglican identity that is ours today because of the sacrifice made by those who have gone before us. We grieve that, because of the doctrinal conflict in parts of our Communion, there is now a growing number of congregations and dioceses in the USA and Canada who believe that their Anglican identity is at risk and are appealing to us so that they might remain faithful members of the Communion. As leaders of that Communion we will work together to recognize the Anglican identity of all who receive, hold and maintain the Scriptures as the Word of God written and who seek to live in godly fellowship within our historic ordering.
9. We deeply regret that, at its most recent General Convention, The Episcopal Church gave no clear embrace of the minimal recommendations of the Windsor Report. We observe that a number of the resolutions adopted by the Convention were actually contrary to the Windsor Report. We are further dismayed to note that their newly elected Presiding Bishop also holds to a position on human sexuality – not to mention other controversial views – in direct contradiction of Lambeth 1.10 and the historic teaching of the Church. The actions and decisions of the General Convention raise profound questions on the nature of Anglican identity across the entire Communion.
10. We are, however, greatly encouraged by the continued faithfulness of the Network Dioceses and all of the other congregations and communities of faithful Anglicans in North America. In addition, we commend the members of the Anglican Network in Canada for their commitment to historic, biblical faith and practice. We value their courage and consistent witness. We are also pleased by the emergence of a wider circle of ‘Windsor Dioceses’ and urge all of them to walk more closely together and deliberately work towards the unity that Christ enjoins. We are aware that a growing number of congregations are receiving oversight from dioceses in the Global South and in recent days we have received requests to provide Alternative Primatial Oversight for a number of dioceses. This is an unprecedented situation in our Communion that has not been helped by the slow response from the Panel of Reference. After a great deal of prayer and deliberation, and in order to support these faithful Anglican dioceses and parishes, we have come to agreement on the following actions:
a. We have asked the Global South Steering Committee to meet with the leadership of the dioceses requesting Alternative Primatial Oversight, in consultation with the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Network and the ‘Windsor Dioceses’, to investigate their appeal in greater detail and to develop a proposal identifying the ways by which the requested Primatial oversight can be adequately provided.
b. At the next meeting of the Primates in February 2007 some of us will not be able to recognize Katharine Jefferts Schori as a Primate at the table with us. Others will be in impaired communion with her as a representative of The Episcopal Church. Since she cannot represent those dioceses and congregations who are abiding by the teaching of the Communion we propose that another bishop, chosen by these dioceses, be present at the meeting so that we might listen to their voices during our deliberations.
c. We are convinced that the time has now come to take initial steps towards the formation of what will be recognized as a separate ecclesiastical structure of the Anglican Communion in the USA. We have asked the Global South Steering Committee to develop such a proposal in consultation with the appropriate instruments of unity of the Communion. We understand the serious implications of this determination. We believe that we would be failing in our apostolic witness if we do not make this provision for those who hold firmly to a commitment to historic Anglican faith.
11. While we are concerned about the challenges facing our Anglican structures we are also very much aware that these issues can be a distraction from the work of the Gospel. At our meeting in Kigali we invested a great deal of our time on the day-to-day challenges that confront our various Churches including poverty eradication, HIV/AIDS, peace building and church planting. We were enormously encouraged by the reports of growth and vitality in the many different settings where we live and serve. 12. We received a preliminary report from the Theological Formation and Education (TFE) Task Force. We were pleased to hear of their plans to provide opportunities for theological formation from the most basic catechism to graduate level training for new and existing Anglican leaders. We request that all Global South provinces share their existing Catechisms and other educational resources with the TFE Task Force for mutual enrichment. We were pleased by their determination to network with other theological institutions and theologians in the Global South as well as with scholars and seminaries who share a similar vision for theological education that is faithful to Scripture and tradition.
13. We were blessed by the presence of a number of Economic Officers (Advisors) from around the Communion. Their determination to find creative ways to offer means of Economic Empowerment< at various levels throughout the provinces of the Global South was an inspiration to all of us and resulted in the issuing of a separate summary statement. We note especially their proposed Ethical Economic and Financial Covenant that we adopted as Primates and commended for adoption at all levels of our Provinces. We were impressed by their vision and fully support their proposal to convene an Economic Empowerment consultation in 2007 with participation invited from every Global South Province.
14. We received ‘The Road to Lambeth,’ a draft report commissioned by the Primates of the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa (CAPA) which they have commended to their churches for study and response. It highlights the crisis that now confronts us as we consider the future of the Lambeth Conference. We commend this report for wider reflection.
15. We were challenged by a presentation on the interface between Christianity and Islam and the complex issues that we must now confront at every level of our societies throughout the Global South. We recognized the need for a more thorough education and explored a number of ways that allow us to be faithful disciples to Jesus Christ while respecting the beliefs of others. We condemn all acts of violence in the name of any religion.
16. Throughout our time together in Kigali we have not only shared in discussions such as these we have also spent time together in table fellowship, prayer and worship. We are grateful that because of the time that we have shared our lives have been strengthened and our love for Christ, His Church and His world confirmed. Accordingly, we pray for God’s continued blessing on all members of our beloved Communion that we might all be empowered to continue in our mission to a needy and troubled world.
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. (Jude 1:24-25)
* Provinces Represented:
Bangladesh**, Burundi, Central Africa, Church of South India, Congo, Indian Ocean, Jerusalem and Middle East, Kenya, Myanmar, Nigeria, Philippines**, Rwanda, Southern Africa, South East Asia, Southern Cone, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, West Africa, West Indies (** Not present but represented)

THE CHURCH OF NIGERIA STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING HELD BETWEEN THURSDAY, 14TH AND FRIDAY, 15TH SEPTEMBER, 2006 AT ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL , DIOBU – PORT H

THE CHURCH OF NIGERIA STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING HELD BETWEEN THURSDAY, 14TH AND FRIDAY, 15TH SEPTEMBER, 2006 AT ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL , DIOBU – PORT HARCOURT.


PASTORAL LETTER TO THE CHURCH


My dear People of God,

The peace of the Lord be always with you as you worship Him in the beauty of holiness and in the joy of the Holy Spirit.

In the past few days, the Standing Committee of our Church has been meeting at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Diobu, Port Harcourt in the Diocese of Niger Delta North to consider under God, the theme WE ARE ON THE LORD’S SIDE (Exodus 32:26). This is in acknowledgement of the fact that our Church has come to that point in time when our identity can no longer be predicated on vague assumptions but rather on solid biblical convictions, and unequivocal confessions. Our Church must step out of the cobweb of twisted opinions that seek to capture both church and state as we face the challenges of greatness, fidelity and credibility on both fronts.

Our fathers, the Bishops spent a day interacting with the chief operatives in INEC (Prof. Maurice Iwu), the Police (The IG, Mr. Sunday Ehindero), NOA (Alhaji Idi Farouk) and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (Hon. Austin Opara). The purpose was to be better informed about the electoral process and the welfare of our dear nation.

We also took considerable time to reflect on the context and application of the theme. We came under the conviction that whatever we do to replace the supremacy of God, He would destroy. We also discerned afresh that the voice of the people is not always the voice of God since, as in the case of the Israelites and the golden calf, the voice of the people can actually be rebellion. The serious implication for us is that when our culture, tradition and disposition go against the Word of God, we must choose to be on the Lord’s side. The time-tested and inerrant rule of life must remain the written Word of God. To toy with these in the name of cultural accommodation or contextualization can only lead to worship of pseudo gods and the inevitable attendant confusion and disharmony, as in the case in the worldwide Anglican Communion.

There are lessons for today’s Church: As we face the real danger of sliding into syncretism, apostasy, and the inevitable divine judgment, what is needed is nothing short of the call by Moses: “Who is on the Lord’s side?” And those on the Lord’s side must not hesitate, whatever the cost, to make their position clearly known. We must resist every attempt from any quarters to be muddled or messed up with those of contrary disposition in any unholy alliance, lest like Israel we get our fingers burnt.

In all these, we as a church must press on with the mission committed to us – to make disciples of all nations. That is why we have taken steps to elect bishops for the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Nomadic Mission, and the outreach to the scattered flock of God in North America. We are still opening up more areas to direct access to the gospel message by creating more missionary dioceses. This is capital-intensive and Dioceses should therefore demonstrate greater commitment to the endowment fund project. We also encourage individuals who are endowed to support the Church in her missionary emphasis.

As part of our growing mission emphasis, we have also sought to understand better ways of understanding and evangelizing our neighbors in other faiths, particularly the Islam in the context of growing worldwide concerns. It is apparent that there is a worldwide Islamic agenda which has the political domination of every nation in view. Considering the negative consequences of this development, it is therefore imperative for Christians to be properly informed about what Islam stands for and dialogue with Muslims only when it is done on equal terms.

We remind our churches to maintain the emphasis on the war against indecent dressing, as well as indecent conduct and the attendant problems of HIV/AIDS which requires our unceasing commitment.

As we all resolve to be on the Lord’s side, may the Lord be with you.


+Peter Akinola
(Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria).
September 16, 2006

PRIMATE’S OPENING REMARKS AT THE STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING HELD AT ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL, DIOBU, PORT HARCOURT NIGER DELTA NORTH DIOCESE

PRIMATE’S OPENING REMARKS AT THE STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING HELD AT ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL, DIOBU, PORT HARCOURT NIGER DELTA NORTH DIOCESE, SEPTEMBER 12 – 16, 2006

My Sisters and Brothers in Christ Jesus:
We are delighted to be able to welcome you most warmly to the Garden City, Port Harcourt. We pray that our gathering together will bear much fruit leading to greater commitment to the LORD and a renewed resolve to the pursuit of the task at hand.
Appreciation
Let me quickly on your behalf offer our sincere thanks to our host, the Rt. Revd. Ignatius Kattey and the entire diocese of Niger Delta North for willingly accepting to host this meeting and for the elaborate plans they have made to make us comfortable and welcome. The Lord will reward you bountifully for this demonstration of brotherly love. We are indeed grateful.
As you all well know, I am not in the habit of eulogising people. But, please allow me to single out for special mention, recognition and appreciation our brother, friend and benefactor, the Governor of this State, Dr Peter Odili without whose pragmatic involvement and massive support, the atmosphere here would certainly have been very different. Dr Odili is one Christian leader who believes that whatever is in his possession is from God and must therefore be judiciously utilised to the honour and glory of God and the blessing of his people. This he has done consistently and most admirably.
People of God here assembled, if I were to make a list of his financial contributions to the work of our Church, it will be longer than your arm’s length. Suffice it to say that, all the Christian denominations in this state owe much of their development in the last seven years to the huge financial donations from the people’s government of Rivers state under the most humane leadership of our dear brother. Individuals: clergy, lay members and bishops alike benefit regularly in kind and in cash from the kind-hearted disposition of the governor. His listening and responsive character to the plight of the needy is now legendary.
His spread of help to the cause of Christianity is not restricted to the state. Only recently, he doled out #100m to the South- South CAN and in addition sent four vehicles to the national headquarters in Abuja. The Christian churches and dioceses in this state see him as their champion, but we also know that Dr Peter Odili has proven himself a national, caring, keenly supportive leader. We assure you, dear brother, in the name of the LORD that you will in no wise loose your reward. We are praying for you.
National Conference
Not too long after our last meeting in Ibadan, we held a very successful and well-attended National Conference with the theme “Seek ye the Welfare of the City/Nation”. Our sincere thanks go to all the dioceses who were represented by their bishops and other high-ranking officials and to our numerous special guests drawn from all walks of life in the country. We remain indebted to the chairman and all members of the organising committee for their sense of duty and dedication. We are also grateful to all those who gave financial assistance towards the cost of the conference.
The reports and recommendations of the Conference have been sent through the diocesan bishops to be reproduced and made available to every parishioner throughout the length and breadth of this country. I appeal to all to ensure that this is faithfully carried out so that the labours and resources put behind the Conference are not in vain. Furthermore, it is important that all leaders at various levels of administration to diligently follow through the recommended action plan at the provincial, diocesan and parish levels to ensure that the desired objective of transformation of our society for needed accelerated development of Church and nation is achieved.
In my keynote address to the National Conference referred to above, I had said:
“The Scripture tells us “Seek peace and prosperity of the city; pray that it should prosper because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jer. 29.7) If Nigeria does not have peace no one will be at peace. If it does not prosper nothing will filter down to any of us. Therefore, it is important to seek the peace and prosperity of this country.
Nigeria today is passing through perilous times. Our dear country seems to go from one crisis to another. There is the phenomenon of youth restiveness. The poverty situation of the country in spite of well-publicized government efforts appears to be insoluble. It seems that the lofty vision of our founding fathers has been lost in a wilderness of greed, corruption, selfishness, and insensitivity to the plight of the common man. Men like Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Akanu Ibiam and Alvan Ikoku exemplified patriotism, vision, integrity and selfless service to our dear country.
Most of these men died without any legacy of a material empire to their name. In contrast our generation clearly has lost these enduring virtues. Politics today is regarded as an avenue to wealth rather than service to the nation. This probably explains the vicious methods by which people seek political office in today’s Nigeria. It has been reported of some who say “give me political office for only three months and that is enough”. The rest is left to your imagination as to what Nigerians do in political office”.
This then is the backdrop scenario in our nation today. The situation in the Church is equally ugly, as shepherds and sheep have become more intensely and deeply conformed to worldly standards. Hence the theme for this meeting “We are on the Lord’s Side”-an affirmation I hope we will wholeheartedly, unreservedly and continuously make in our Christian pilgrimage. (Church Hymnal: 595 (Exodus 32:26).
Who is on the Lord’s side?
In everyday life situations, we are confronted by circumstances that require us to make choices and decisions. In the exercise of our freedom, sometimes we make wise choices but at other times, sadly, wrong ones. Good or bad, any choice we make has implications and often carries far reaching consequences.
Moses had been on the mountain to receive instructions from God for his people who had unfortunately grown impatient. Tired of waiting for their leader and in their characteristic seditious spirit asked Aaron to:
‘make us gods which shall go before us’ (Ex 32.1)
What they asked Aaron to do was a direct violation of the first two commandments and a rejection of the covenant and therefore of YHWH. More disturbing, they found in Aaron a spineless leader, who readily acceded to their rebellious demand. Well, they’ve made their choice; they must now face the consequences.
On his return to the camp, and seeing the golden calf and the debauchery of his people Moses was absolutely furious, smashed the two tablets of Testimony in his hand, destroyed the idol, decided to separate the sheep from the goats.
He threw a challenge:
who is on the Lord’s side? Let him come to me.
In this clarion call, Moses gave the Israelites a chance to make a choice, to repent and be forgiven, or to remain in their rebellion and be damned; to be on Lord’s side and live or maintain their allegiance to idols, work of human hands and perish.
By their action, (not precepts or word of mouth) the Levites declared ‘We are on the LORD’s side’. By this declaration, they were promptly conscripted into YHWH’s army with a matching order to slay all (even closest relatives) who had elected to continue in rebellion against God and when given an opportunity for repentance, remained adamant. In the ensuing battle, 3000 were slain, (Ex 32 27-28)
The problem of syncretism, religious amalgamation and of apostasy (which as rightly interpreted by the prophets was tantamount to the rejection of their Creator, Redeemer and Covenant God) continued to be the major obstacle in the life of Israel for the actualisation of the covenant promises.
Thus from time to time the prophets called them to repentance, reminding them of YHWH’s saving acts and the fact that they had no ontological relationship to the land they now occupied-it was a gift of God in fulfilment of his gracious promise to Abraham. (cp. Joshua 24:14-16) and Elijah on mount Carmel, (1Kings 18. 21ff)
The golden calf episode has become a classic example of human ingratitude but also of man’s instability in matters of trust in the immortal, invisible God of the universe who chooses not to have any physical representation. Israel here depicts the human preoccupation with walking by sight and not by faith. It is regrettable that Israel did not see YHWH’s saving acts all through the wilderness wanderings beyond the personality of Moses.
And this immediately highlights the inherent danger of making too much of religious structures or institutions, be they places, buildings, positions or personalities. When these are accorded undue importance, the understanding and recognition of the Almighty God as the true Lord and Leader of his people is inhibited; then of course the same temptation to ingratitude and apostasy begins to rear their ugly head.
That the people could so easily and so quickly forget the numerous manifestations of divine love and power both in Egypt and on the way to Sinai baffles human imagination—but then the same is sadly true of much of our contemporary attitude towards God and his Word. We (the Church) are too quick to forget “the ancient paths” and “the Rock from which we were hewn”. In the face of the clamour for modernism and liberalism, we are quick to acquiesce and throw away our long-standing and well-tested heritage and identity in the name of cultural and political correctness.
The voice of the people is not always the voice of God, thus the need for some time-tested and universal reference points like the revealed and written Word of God. To toy with these in the name of cultural accommodation or contextualization can only lead to the worship of pseudo gods and the inevitable attendant confusion and disharmony, as is the case in the worldwide Anglican Communion.
Dear friends, this saga is a great lesson for today’s Church. At such times of real danger of sliding into syncretism, apostasy and the inevitable divine judgement, what is needed is nothing short of the call by Moses: “Who is on the Lord’s side?” And those on the Lord’s side must not hesitate, whatever the cost, to make their position clearly known. They must resist every attempt from any quarters to be muddled or messed up with those of contrary disposition in any unholy alliance; lest like Israel they get their fingers burnt. God is merciful; his loving-kindness surpasses all we can fathom. But
‘today when you his voice, harden not your hearts as in
the provocation and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness’

Global Anglican Relations
Sadly, the vexed issues of human sexuality still occupy significant prominence even after the General Convention of the Episcopal Church of the United States (ECUSA) and the General Synod of the Church of England both of which were held recently. Canterbury is now proposing a two-tier level of relationship as the way forward for the communion in response to the recommendation of the Windsor Report’s call for some sort of ‘covenant’ to bind membership. The Episcopal Synod has already given an initial response to this proposal
“Synod is satisfied with the move by the Global South to continue with its veritable project of defending the historic faith committed to us against present onslaught from ECUSA, Canada, England and their allies. The need therefore, to redefine and/or re-determine those who are truly Anglicans becomes urgent, imperative and compelling. Synod therefore empowers the leadership of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) to give assent to the Anglican Covenant”.
And at this meeting, a group is to focus on comprehensive review of all the statements and documentations prepared, and to recommend appropriate position for the Church into the future on the matter. Also, on the issue of the ‘covenant’, the Global South has taken the initiative to prepare a response. The group will also come up with our position after a thorough review.
We continue to participate in the work of the Anglican Communion Office at the United Nations through representation at the 50th Session with the status of Women and Empowerment. Our participation has been highly commended by the outgoing Anglican Observer at the United Nations – Archdeacon Taimalelagi Fagamalama Tuatapaloa-Matalavea. We hope to participate in the 51st Session next year focusing on “The Elimination of all forms of Discriminations and Violence against the Girl child and the Evaluation of progress made on the role of Men and Boys in achieving Gender Equality (as resolved in 2004).
Episcopal Succession
Pursuant to the implementation of the decision of the Standing Committee in February at Ibadan, with regard to the timeframe for the election of Episcopal successors to incumbent bishops and archbishops, a group will be looking at the work already done by the Committee of Reference on proposed Constitutional amendments and recommend to the Plenary what to present to the General Synod for ratification.
Niger Delta Conflict
The unwholesome and restive situation in the Niger Delta where violence, kidnapping of foreign and local nationals and other vices has become the order of the day calls for urgent action. It is incumbent upon the Church of Nigeria with six dioceses in the region to find a solution, restore calm and lasting peace. I have therefore on your behalf constituted a Committee with the Registrar as Chairman to wade into the issues, make necessary interface with all stakeholders and make appropriate recommendations. This Committee has done some work and their initial report will form the basis of the work of a group at this meeting. The group will after their review, recommend to the Standing Committee line of action our Church must take in this matter.
Nigerian Political Terrain
The Nigerian political environment is precarious and deadly. Already, high profile murder of gubernatorial aspirants have taken place in Lagos and Ekiti, whilst another candidate in Abia State was savagely assaulted, dispossessed and warned to back-down from contesting. There has also been wanton destruction of property and some deaths in Osun State. Onitsha has been on the boil in the past few months, with several deaths. It is common knowledge that politicians use the media to canvass personal interests with threats and innuendos of mayhem. The welfare of the nation and its developmental needs are relegated to the background completely. The Church has a responsibility and must seek ways of impacting very positively in the whole stretch of the political programme for 2007 elections.
In this regard, a seminar was held yesterday to sensitize all bishops to the imperatives of the programmes and the responsibility of the polity. The Chairman of INEC, the Inspector-General of Police and the Chairman/Chief Executive, National Orientation Agency were all here as resource persons to address us at the one-day Seminar. The idea is that the bishops will then go back to the dioceses and enlighten their parishioners through a well-co-ordinated series of events and programmes aimed at giving in-depth education of how they are to exercise their democratic right to bring about a responsible and responsive governance come 2007. A group will also at this meeting, review the situation and work done so far and recommend godly guidelines for the electorate and the political gladiators.
Corruption
Seven years ago, the President at his inaugural speech declared a fight to finish war against indiscipline and corruption. He vowed that there would be no sacred cows and it is no longer business as usual. We in the church of God are happy that the war is now truly raging. We appeal to all stakeholders to give maximum support and cooperation to the initiative. We must eradicate corruption from our national psyche. We must sanitise the polity. We have laid our hands on the plough, for God’s sake, there must be no reason to want to look back.
Mission and Evangelism
With grateful heart to God I am glad to be able to report that the bishop we sent to Congo as missionary has now fully settled down to work in the area assigned to him-Mbujimayi, within the Church of the Province of Congo. This is the beginning of a new phase of support for the Church in Africa.
We also report that the Nomadic mission you kindly approved last February in Ibadan has also fully taken off. The Bishop is in residence at the co-ordinating headquarters in Jos. We have recruited; trained and equipped 12 Evangelists with new motorcycles.
Also, last month, with the consecration of the Bishop, Rt. Revd. Martyn Minns, the much needed Episcopal oversight for our Mission Initiative in the United States of America (CANA) commenced in earnest. It is important that we all give this godly enterprise our best support. Let charity abound that God’s glory may glow as we together nurture this worthy and timely intervention for the sake of the Gospel and the historic faith once delivered to the saints.
Let me use this opportunity to thank all dioceses that responded to our clarion call for the special fund to support this and other mission work. Specifically, we offer gratitude to the Dioceses of Awka, Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Kaduna, Orlu, Enugu, On the Niger, Lagos West, Niger Delta North, Ilesa, and Umuahia, for agreeing to contribute N600, 000 per annum for three years and for promptly paying the first instalment. We welcome others who are mission-minded and so led to join these worthy compatriots by subscribing to this special mission fund.
At a special session yesterday, the Archbishops met with the CNMS Board to receive the reports and recommendations of the Primatial visitation panels on missionary initiatives. Our concern arising from the vision goals of Church is to ensure that
strong Anglican presence is established wherever there is none. And wherever we are but weak, our effort is geared towards giving the church formidable Anglican presence.
The recommendations will be shared out shortly.
Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue
We continue actively in the pursuit of making the Christian Association of Nigeria focused and result-oriented by proactively interfacing with the government and stakeholders. This has yielded handsomely, we now boast of a more harmonious, constructive and consistent engagement with attendant positive results.
The Most Revd. Josiah Idowu-Fearon led our team to the 9th World Council of Churches (WCC) Assembly from February 14 – 23, 2006 at Port Alegre in Brazil, and he was elected into the Central Working Committee of the body.
It is pertinent to report that our Church played a leading role in the inauguration of the African Forum on Religion and Covenant (AFREG), which involves all Christian Heads of State across the Continent of Africa. The vision of the body is “Transparency and Accountability in Governance”. The first consultation took place from July 25-28, 2006 at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, with delegation from all over the world in attendance. Our Director of Ecumenism and Interfaith is the Secretary of AFREG.
Our Anglican-Roman Catholic Commission continues to hold regular dialogue as they meet bi-annually. The last consultation held at Ilesa in the month of July, 2006.
HIV/AIDS PROGRAMME
In furtherance of the implementation of our 5 – year HIV/AIDS Strategic Policy and Plans, a debriefing of Bishops was held in June. This was sponsored by ENHANSE Projects and attended by other donor agencies. I urge us all to make the best use of this in moving forward the HIV/AIDS Initiative in our respective Dioceses.
Standing in the gap
At the global level, we are beginning to take a hard and critical look at some of the issues we have hitherto taken for granted in our Christian –Moslem relations especially as it affects the growth of the Church around the world. The UK, Europe and America we used to know as Christian centres are been gradually taken over by Islam and materialism.
I know you will be surprised to learn that some northern cities in the UK now have Moslem mayors and are already asking for the introduction of the Shari’a. London metropolitan Moslem police want to wear turban. Plans are fast afoot to build a 40,000 capacity Mosque near the Olympic Stadium in London! Both the site and timing tells the whole story. France is said to have 7 million French born-Moslems! In Belgium, you don’t drink coffee in public during Ramadan, as that’ll offend Moslems. Whichever way you look at it, Islam is determined to take over the western world. Allowing Islam to take over Europe, America and the United Kingdom will surely have a negative impact and unsavoury implications for Africa.
We have identified four broad lines of action to stem this tide
· Strong Christian political office holders
· Christians in Media
· Regular publications
· Wake up call on all Christian preachers
Initial work has already begun on this assignment both in the United States of American and the United Kingdom. Consultation with identified personalities would take place before the end of the year and during the first quarter of next year.
IBRU CENTRE PROJECT
What was meant to be a one-year project is still yet to be completed. We continue to thank the dioceses that have paid their contributions to the project and appeal to the others who are yet to pay to do so to enable us complete the outstanding work which consists of installation of fittings and fixture and external works.
Finally, beloved in Christ let us rise up at the end of this meeting determined and with greater resolve to employ all our God-given talents in the pursuit of everything that reflects His glory. This is the only way we can unequivocally demonstrate the affirmation “We are on the Lord’s Side”.
“Who is on the LORD’s side
Who will serve the King?
Who will be His helpers,
Other lives to bring?
Who will leave the world’s side?
Who will face the foe?
Who is on the Lord’s side?
Who for Him will go?
By thy call of mercy,
By thy grace Divine,
We are on the Lord’s side!
Saviour, we are Thine.

Fierce may be the conflict,
Strong may be the foe,
But the King’s own army
None can overthrow;
Round His standard ranging,
Victory is secure,
For His truth unchanging
Makes the triumph sure.
Joyfully enlisting
By Thy grace divine
We are on the Lord’s side!
Saviour, we are Thine.

+ Peter Abuja
September 14, 2006

INEC Boss Appeals for Prayers, Invites Clergymen to volunteer as ad-hoc staff.

INEC Boss Appeals for Prayers, Invites Clergymen to volunteer as ad-hoc staff.

CONN/0590906

Port Harcourt, Sept. 13, 2006- The Chairman of INEC, Prof. Maurice Iwu today delivered his most passionate appeal for the success of the 2007 elections appealing to Church leaders to fervently pray for the forthcoming polls.
He also asked the Church to encourage Priests to volunteer as ad-hoc staff, saying ‘there is nothing wrong in Anglican clergymen working as electoral staff’.

Prof. Iwu was speaking to delegates of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) attending the ongoing Standing Committee of the Church in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital

Making reference to the Gospel of Luke 4:18, he tasked the Church leaders to make 2007 an acceptable year of the Lord.

The INEC boss, who quoted copiously from the Bible during his presentation, said “Jesus came to preach the gospel to the poor, to proclaim liberty to the captive and recovery of sight to the blind.”

“It is only you (the Bishops) not me, that can make 2007 the acceptable year of the Lord. As Christians you can lead us to join our Moslem brothers- who are also Children of the Book-, to make 2007 an acceptable year of the Lord.”

He asked Church leaders to stop ascribing blame of manipulation of election on politicians and called on Christians to train men of integrity to take over the leadership of the country.

“No politicians carries ballot boxes, no politicians carries acid, no politician carries machete. It is the ordinary Nigerian, people who come to Church everyday to worship God; they are the ones they use,” he said.”

He described as totally unacceptable a situation in the country where people of low intellect and sheer brutality have been allowed to control the reins of political power.

Iwu said religious leaders have been appointed by God to lead and liberate the people from the reins of ignorance and bondage.

He appealed to the Church leaders to encourage their followers not to allow themselves to be used as agents to derail the electoral process.

On what INEC was doing towards the 2007 polls, Iwu said some 500,000 people and more are needed to conduct the polls.

He said the electoral body resolved not to take any list from politicians during recruitment of ad-hoc staff and listed religious bodies, academia, business community, as reliable alternatives.

MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH AND NATION ARISING FROM THE POLITICAL AWARENESS SEMINAR HELD FOR THE BISHOPS OF THE CHURCH OF NIGERIA (ANGLICAN COMMUNION)

MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH AND NATION ARISING FROM THE POLITICAL AWARENESS SEMINAR HELD FOR THE BISHOPS OF THE CHURCH OF NIGERIA (ANGLICAN COMMUNION) ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 2006, AT ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL, DIOBU, PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE.
INTRODUCTION
The Bishops of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) met in a seminar on Political Awareness in the country on the 13th day of September 2006 at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s Diobu, Port Harcourt in the Diocese of Niger Delta North. After a very deep prayerful exposition and exhaustive deliberation on the current political process, as well as the security demands, mobilization and laws towards a successful general elections in the country next year, issues the following statements to the Church:

1. Commendation
The House of Bishops highly commends the leadership of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) for putting in place such an educative, informative and brainstorming seminar for the house of bishops at this crucial stage of our national history and development. It also places on record, the contributions of our Resource Persons: Prof. Maurice M. Iwu, chairman Independent Electoral Commission, Mr. Sunday Ehindero, Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Mohammed Faruk, Director General, National Orientation Agency and Hon. Austin Opara, Deputy Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, towards the success of the seminar. The first three personalities not only attended in persons, but also made remarkable contributions that have made the Church and her leaders better informed on the ongoing electoral process in the country.

2. The Church and an Enduring Democratic Process in Nigeria
The House of Bishops strongly believes that the feeling in certain quarters that Nigerians by nature are incapable of doing things right is not only false but also unfounded. It however identifies the problem as having to do with the wrong mindset, which people have built over the years. To conduct a credible election in Nigeria come 2007 is not only possible but also feasible.

Conscious of the fact that a new political culture is germane to the emergence of the new Nigeria of our dream, the Church therefore commits itself irrevocably to partner with all relevant electoral agencies or bodies to ensure a successful general elections in Nigeria not only in 2007 but also in subsequent elections. While regretting her political aloofness and inertia, the Church believes that the need to wrest politics out from the hands of hawks and predators into those of godly and patriotic Nigerians is urgent, imperative and compelling. It (the Church) therefore commits itself to the following programmes of action:

Aggressive Electoral Education Programme
Part of the mandate of the Church is teaching. She is to teach all things necessary for the growth and development of the human society towards the path of godliness and righteousness. To this end, every Ecclesiastical Province and Diocese in the Church of Nigeria should carefully study all the relevant electoral laws and acts and endeavour to explain same to the electorate as a way of getting them well informed enough to be able to resist the manipulations of wicked politicians. Political Education is to become part and parcel of the Church’s mission and ministry.
Awareness Campaign
Every bishop is enjoined within his Diocese to identify, persuade and encourage men and women of integrity and good Christian virtues to present themselves for elective positions and/or offices. It believes that only when such people get interested and involved will our society be on the path of recovery and rectitude. It should be made clear to people that shying away from active politics is both an anti social behaviour and an ungodly act.

Mobilization and Sensitization of the Electorate
It is the duty of every bishop to mobilize, sensitize and conscientize all eligible voters to endeavour to be card carrying members of any political party of their choice. Again every true Nigerian Christians should see it as a duty to participate fully in the forthcoming revision of voters Register so as to take active part in the process that will lead to the emergence of God-fearing leaders at all levels in our country next year.

The Youth and Electoral Violence
Every diocese in the Church of Nigeria should organize an awareness seminar for the youths on the need of resisting the temptation of mortgaging their future in the hands of wicked politicians for a plate of portage. The dangers of offering themselves as political thugs for doing odd jobs should be highlighted to prevent them from being willing tools in the hands of mischief makers.

Election Monitoring Groups
The problem with the electoral process in Nigeria also include the fact that in most cases the election results do not reflect the actual voting pattern. The need therefore to protect the peoples votes becomes absolutely necessary. It shall therefore be established in every diocese, Ecclesiastical Province, and the National Church, election monitoring groups that will make available to the Church the true voting pattern so as to ensure that the results eventually declared represent the wishes of the people of this country.

Discipline of Errant Politicians
The Church shall henceforth rediscover, dust and exercise fully her instrument of discipline and use it strongly on any member of the Church, no matter how highly placed, who as a politician, engages in or encourages thuggery, and or any form of electoral violence or malpractice or whose conduct in the political arena did not befit a Christian.

The Church is eternally committed to its time-honoured prophetic ministry that declares the whole mind of God fearlessly and uncompromisingly so that the people of this nation shall know the truth that sets free. Our prayer for the nation, her leaders and people shall be intensified so that the year 2007 will indeed be to us all an acceptable year of the Lord towards a better Nigerian nation.

May God bless us all.


+Peter Akinola
(Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria).



MESSAGE TO THE NATION

INTRODUCTION
The Bishops of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) met in a seminar on Political Awareness in the country on the 13th day of September, 2006 at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s Diobu, Port Harcourt in the Diocese of Niger Delta North. After a very deep prayerful exposition and exhaustive deliberation on the current political process, as well as the security demands, mobilization and laws towards a successful general elections in the country next year, issues the following statements:

Commendation
The House of Bishops highly commends the leadership of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) for putting in place such an educative, informative and brainstorming seminar for the house of bishops at this crucial stage of our national history and development. It also places on record, the contributions of our Resource Persons: Prof. Maurice M. Iwu, chairman Independent Electoral Commission, Mr. Sunday Ehindero, Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Mohammed Faruk, Director General, National Orientation Agency and Hon. Austin Opara, Deputy Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, towards the success of the seminar. The first three personalities not only attended in persons, but also made remarkable contributions that have made the Church and her leaders better informed on the ongoing electoral process in the country.

INEC and 2007 General Elections
The Church of Nigeria admires with great enthusiasm, the zeal, commitment and determination of the Independent National electoral Commission to conduct a very credible election in the country come 2007. It however notes with sadness that since independence, the electoral process in Nigeria has been characterized by massive rigging, political violence and thuggery, politics of bitterness and imposition of candidates among others. It also decries the fact that party politics has, most of the time, not been issue-based, but driven by primordial sentiments and quest for political power and public office, not as a means of bringing about development, but as vehicles of personal aggrandizement and disbursement of patronages to supporters and cronies. Synod enjoins INEC to be resolute and steadfast in its determination to make the forthcoming general elections a watershed for an enduring democratic culture in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Police and the Democratic Electoral Process
The House of Bishops underscores the crucial but central role of the Nigerian Police in ensuring the success of the democratic electoral process in this country. It is however inconsolably worried that the Nigerian Police is not only ill-equipped, but also poorly motivated for their job. That the Nigerian Police has no functional aircraft for effective surveillance and monitoring, coupled with the fact that armed robbers and social miscreants have stronger fire-power is not only a threat, but posses a real danger to the maintenance of peace, order, security and good governance in this country. It therefore calls on the Federal Government to take urgent steps at repositioning the Nigerian Police for effective discharge of their constitutional obligations by ensuring not only the provision of modern security gadgets and apparatus, but also an improved welfare package that will adequately motivate them for their very delicate job.

The Federal Government and the Success of the 2007 General Elections
The Bishops note with satisfaction that the present government of the Federation is leaving no stone unturned in an effort to engender a true democratic culture that will ensure the realization of the dreams of our founding fathers at independence. Worthy of special mention are the various legislations being put in place to ensure free and fair elections, setting of limits for election expenses by various candidates from the office of the President to Ward Councilors, and the unrelenting war against corruption in the country. It urges Mr. President and his team to remain resolute until Nigeria truly becomes the motherland of our dream.

Politics Without Bitterness
The House of Bishops reminds Nigerians that politics is about sharing of ideas. It is therefore very wrong and ungodly to allow bitterness and acrimony to rise to the level of contemplating, planning and actual assassination of perceived political opponents. It reminds our brothers and sisters in partisan politics of the truism that “whatever a man sows, that he will reap” and warns those who see politics as a do or die affair to save the successive generations of their families from the curse that goes with the shedding of innocent blood.
May God bless us all.

+Peter Akinola
(Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria).