The Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN) has called on religious leaders to promote religious harmony, in order to ensure that the principles of democracy, which promotes respect for human rights and values, are upheld.
This was the position of the Archbishop of Ibadan, MCN, Most Reverend Michael Kehinde Stephen, at the end of the 55th annual synod of the Diocese of Ibadan, at a press conference before the thanksgiving service last Sunday.
Speaking on the theme, God’s Word, My Guide, Archbishop Stephen, noted that the existence of interfaith coexistence had been recognised from the history of Nigeria.
“The fact that we have to coexist as people of different faiths is recognised and right from the day, we have fashioned out how to live together and we share and respect each other’s religion. We must respect each other’s faith. Fanaticism is as a result of loss of focus and leads to crime and violence and it doesn’t help anyone. No religion supports violence. You have to be reasonable when you practise religion.
“As religious leaders, we must take action on re-examining the word of God. We need to go back to the primary teaching of God’s word, listen to interpretation that is God-inspired, so that the society can be a peaceful place for all and it will enhance our democratic practice. Democracy respects human rights and values and no religion should antagonise that. Principles of religious freedom are a must and our laws must protect that,” he stated.
Also speaking, Dr Ademola Idowu, Lay President, Ibadan Diocese, MCN, called on the lay faithful to cooperate with the clergy as well as have confidence in their leadership.
Noting that the future of the diocese was very bright, he stated that “It is important for Christians to ensure cooperation with leaders because a house divided against itself cannot stand. The laity and the clergy have to work together if we are to be assured of eternal life thereafter. The laity should have confidence in the leaders. Every denomination should encourage continuous exposure and education for the clergy. We have to believe the Bible and know that God, who created us, will guide us properly through our leaders to eternal life.”
Archbishop Stephen also commended the Federal Government on the war against corruption, stating that “Corruption affects every aspect of our national life. Government must not relent in its efforts at tackling corruption. There must be concerted efforts to impart new sets of values in the people.”
In his sermon at the thanksgiving service, Very Reverend Adesola Kuyebi, which was based on the topic Methodist People, Live by His Word, he called on Methodist faithful to be active in the profession of their faith. Noting that “Nigeria is undergoing recession because God’s word is missing in the polity,” he urged Christians to continue to pray for Nigeria’s progress.
The synod featured the dedication of the archdiocesan youth executives, special prayers for the Prelate, the country and Oyo State, as well as President Muhammadu Buhari’s health, the federal cabinet and for divine wisdom for other Nigerian leaders.
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