The enthronement of the Archbishop of Okigwe Diocese, the Most Reverend John Ene Koko-Bassey, of the Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN), has been described as an act of God.
The Prelate of the MCN, Most Reverend (Dr) Samuel Uche, who made the remarks shortly after the enthronement service last Sunday at the Methodist Cathedral, Okigwe, said “only God chooses those at the helm of affairs”.
According to the prelate, after a series of process at the Electoral College to determine the next archbishop, the Most Revd John Koko-Bassey became the choosen one, he said.
While congratulating him on the elevation, the prelate charged him to continue with evangelism and use his wealth of wisdom to better the MCN across board.
Speaking on the return of President Muhammadu Buhari from medical vacation abroad recently, the prelate called on Nigerians to continue to pray for him.
He stated that, “Buhari is Nigeria’s president and deserves our collective prayers and support to enable him succeed in office.”
Secretary of Conference, Right Reverend Michael Olusegun Akinwale, in his address, said only God decides and rules over men.
He charged the archbishop to work for total transformation, preach the gospel and ensure Christians embrace evangelism.
Akinwale also advised leaders of all categories to respect God and honour Him, as according to him, that is the only way to ensure peace, unity and progress.
The Diocesan Lay President, Arc. Chiji Chibuike, appreciated God for the unity in the Methodist Church worldwide.
According to him, Most Revd Koko-Bassey was the first non-indigenous Archbishop of Okigwe and would be given full support to enable him succeed.
He thanked the prelate for his efforts at moving the MCN to greater heights and prayed for the growth of the church.
In his remarks, Most. Revd Koko-Bassey thanked God for the grace to witness the event.
While appreciating members of the clergy, laity and government and people of Akwa Ibom, and other groups and individuals enjoined Christians to look up to God as he remains the beginner and finisher of mankind and assured them of taking the cathedral to the next level.
He also charged Christians to rise up to challenges in all ramifications and decreed that 2017 would be a year of fulfillment and laughter.