By Claribel Udah
Christian women have been urged to reflect the light of Christ through righteous living and embrace the fear of God as the foundation of wisdom while paying greater attention to their mental well being.
The call was made by Canon Samuel Igweaka during the July/August 2026 Women’s Meeting held on July 26, at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Omagba Phase II, Onitsha. The meeting was hosted by the Canon’s wife, Mrs. Oluchukwu Igweaka.
Preaching on the topic, “Shine for Jesus,” with reference to Matthew 5:16, Igweaka encouraged women to demonstrate Christ’s character through love, humility, faithful service and obedience to God’s Word.
He said believers were called to be the light of the world by influencing society through exemplary conduct and unwavering commitment to biblical values.
Speaking on the meeting’s theme, “The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom,” the cleric said the fear of God was not rooted in terror but in reverence, obedience and love for the Creator.
He noted that such reverence enables Christians to remain steadfast in the face of life’s challenges despite increasing societal emphasis on self reliance and the rejection of absolute truth.
The meeting also featured a mental health awareness session facilitated by Pharmacist Uche Alor, who described mental health as a vital aspect of overall well being that influences how individuals think, feel, relate with others and cope with everyday challenges.
Alor said mental health was more than the absence of illness, stressing the need to eliminate the stigma associated with anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.
She encouraged participants to maintain balanced nutrition, engage in regular exercise, get adequate sleep, practise relaxation techniques, build healthy relationships and seek professional counselling when necessary.
The meeting ended with prayers, with participants reaffirming their commitment to uphold Christian values, promote their mental well being and continue serving as positive influences in their families, the Church and society.
Claribel Udah is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
