Archbishop Ademowo calls for true repentance

Diocesan Bishop of Lagos and Dean Emeritus, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Most Reverend (Dr) Ephraim Adebola Ademowo, has tasked Christians to use the Christmas season to repent and draw close to God.

He stated this in his Christmas message made available to TribuneChurch, and called on Christians to take advantage of the hope that Christ’s coming represents.

“In today’s world, especially our nation Nigeria, the myriad of problems and challenges are evident everywhere, ranging from neglect, suffering, poverty, diseases, robbery, kidnapping, communal clashes, religious war, political fracas, insurgency, violence and natural disasters. A careful look into the purpose of the birth of Christ shall reveal the importance of peaceful government. This should be a challenge to our government and those in power, those seeking powers and our political institutions to pursue peace.

“In our various communities, states and at national levels, we need peace. It is only in the atmosphere of peace that meaningful development can strive and spread across our nation Nigeria. Provision of adequate security arrangement by the federal and state government must not be compromised. The legislative arms of government should apply their constitutional powers of making laws to ensure adequate provision is made in the budget for security institutions and agencies. Our government should work with the government of the neighbouring countries like Chad, Niger, Cameroun and the international community to stamp out insurgency,” he stated.

He called on Christians to learn from the message and lessons of Christmas, noting that “we must see the hope that Christ brought to the world and must rise together to overcome our challenges as we first set our priorities right. Christ is the reason for Christmas.”

He added: “As we celebrate Christmas, there is urgent need for all of us to go back to God, the author of peace. We should confess our sins, repent and pray to God to return our nation back to the era of peace and progress. May the peace of the prince of peace be with us individually and saturate every sphere of our national lives,” he stated, wishing Nigerians a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year ahead.