BISHOP NWOKOLO INDUCTS REV. MADUKA AS PARISH PRIEST

By Mokwugwo Ogochukwu

It was a day of joy and spiritual significance at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Nteje, in the Oyi Central Archdeaconry, as the Bishop on the Niger, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Chiedozie Nwokolo, conducted an Episcopal visit marked by the Institution and Induction of Rev. Ifunanya Maduka as the Parish Priest of the church.

The solemn ceremony, which drew clergy, laity, and well-wishers from within and beyond the archdeaconry, was further graced by the presence of The Rt. Rev. Daniel Nkemjika Olinya, Bishop of Eha-Amufu Diocese, who assisted in the service.

In his sermon, Bishop Nwokolo charged the newly inducted Vicar and the entire congregation to remain focused on values of eternal significance.

He admonished them to shun self-seeking ambitions and self-righteousness, emphasizing instead the importance of faithful stewardship before God.

The Bishop stressed that God’s servants must not be driven by the desire for self-glory or the approval of men, noting that human judgment often prioritizes visibility over faithfulness.

He reminded the faithful that, ultimately, God will assess believers based on their faithfulness, holiness, and humility.

Citing scriptural references from Jeremiah 45:5 and Matthew 6:33, the Diocesan encouraged Christians to seek first the kingdom of God and to ensure that all their actions are done for His glory, rather than for human recognition.

In his closing prayer, Bishop Nwokolo sought God’s mercy for any instance where individuals may have taken glory upon themselves, praying that God’s people would continue to be edified in Christ.

Highlight of the service was the formal Institution and Induction of Rev. Ifunanya Maduka, marking the beginning of his pastoral leadership at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Nteje.

The event concluded with rejoicing and renewed commitment among the faithful to uphold the teachings and mission of the Church.

Mokwugwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra state.