By Emeka Chiaghanam
God has entrusted fathers with vital roles and responsibilities to care for their families. These duties are essential for the well-being and unity of the family and contribute to a strong and healthy society.
The Archdeacon Church of the
Holy Spirit Anglican Church, Awka, Venerable Dr. Onyeka Egwuonwu, stated this
at the Father's Day celebration held in the church auditorium, honouring the
fathers of the congregation.
Ven. Egwuonwu, in his homily
underscored the divine mandate given to fathers, "As our Father in Heaven,
Almighty God, has shared Himself on Earth for a purpose, He has vested fathers
with roles within and beyond their immediate families," he affirmed.
Stressing accountability, he
continued, "Every child has a father, and every woman should identify the
father of her child or children. A father’s place and the company he keeps are
pivotal; losing oneself invites challenges."
Ven. Egwuonwu also emphasized
the significance of upholding a commendable reputation and adhering to moral
principles. "Every man must uphold a sterling name. What legacy associates
with your name? Each man governs his kingdom by immutable rules. Finding a
partner to build this kingdom is crucial, as each man bears responsibility,
accountable to God for his kingdom."
He urged fathers to embody
integrity and responsibility in fulfilling their ordained purpose.
Engineer Chukwunnso Igboekwe,
Chairman of the 2024 Father’s Day Planning Committee, described the occasion as
momentous. "It serves to honour and celebrate fathers, recognizing God’s
endowment of wisdom, love, and understanding for directing their homes and
communities," he expressed.
"As fathers, love must
permeate our hearts, caring for and nurturing our families. My prayer is for
God’s equipping and preservation of every father in handling their roles. We
appreciate this day to reflect on our responsibilities as fathers."
Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu,
PhD, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Chapter
and immediate past Chairman of the 2023 Father’s Day Planning Committee,
highlighted fatherhood’s global significance, "All fathers serve as
beacons to children worldwide, entrusted to safeguard their families for an
egalitarian society," he asserted.
"Fathers should never
discriminate against any child but cherish, guide, and protect every child
universally. Every child deserves protection, and fathers must safeguard their
families for societal betterment."
Dr. Odogwu addressed the issue
of single parenting, acknowledging its non-biblical origins while recognizing
its prevalence due to circumstances. "The focus must be on guiding and
protecting children for societal enhancement," he emphasized. "When
children lack proper guidance, they may pose threats to society. However, with
adequate love, guidance, and protection, children thrive despite being raised
by a single parent."
On Gen Z parenting, Dr Odogwu dispelled
notions of generational parenting differences, emphasizing that effective
parenting entails instilling love, peace, and environmental awareness, regardless
of generational labels.
Ace journalist and church
member, Comrade Emma Madu expressed gratitude for the day’s significance,
"We are thankful to celebrate this Father’s Day, hopeful for God’s
continued guidance in leading our families responsibly," he shared.
"We anticipate God’s blessings of longevity and health, valuing our family
bonds. God empowers us to fulfill our Christian duties as fathers, and we return
all glory and honor to Him," he said.
The celebration included
notable events such as the inauguration of the Council of Laity, led by Dr.
Raymond Ofor, also serving as the church’s Chairman of Christian Men
Fellowship. Also, all fathers received a solemn rededication through a
proclamation from Archbishop, Province of the Niger, Bishop of Awka, Most Revd
Dr Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim, delivered by Ven. Egwuonwu.
The event concluded with the
presentation of the IDE title to deserving fathers, acknowledging their
unwavering commitment, dedication, and contributions to the church’s spiritual
advancement.
VIDEO
Post a Comment