The Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ike, has tasked christian leaders on service, holiness and humility in discharging their leadership roles.
Ike made the call during the Grand Installation of the New Executive of Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), South-East Zone, on Saturday in Enugu.
The CCN Southeast new executives led by Territorial Envoy, Dr Levi Monanu, was inaugurated by the CCN National President, Most Rev. David Onuoha.
Other members of the executive include Most Rev. Ibeawuchi Agu, Chairman, Rev. Steven Nlemchukwu, Secretary, Rev. Samuel Ibemere, Assistant Secretary, Dr J.C Agbo, Treasurer, Mr Lewechi Ogwo, Financial Secretary and Bishop James Igwe, Public Relation Officer, among others.
Ike, who is the host bishop, called on christian leaders to emulate Christ by using their exalted office to serve both God and humanity as well as ensuring unity among christian faithful.
He reminded them that without holiness, no minister, no bishop, general overseer and reverend would see God, tasking them to become light that shine in the world in truth and character.
“Church leaders should stop comparing themselves with others as doing so is unwise. They should put an end to prosperity preaching and fake miracles,” he advised.
The clergyman, however, charged the new CCN executives on teamwork and to exhibit the virtues of patience, service, humility and gentleness.
He admonished them to live up to expectations of the people and accept each other’s fault.
In his acceptance speech, Monanu assured the CCN national body that he and other executives from the Southeast would continue to initiate programmes that would strengthen love, equity and harmony across the land.
He equally encouraged the people of the zone to rise to their civic duty by getting registered, obtain their voter’s cards, and vote credible leaders at all levels of governance.
“So it is with utmost reverence and privilege that I stand before you to be installed as the Chairman, Southeast Zone of this esteemed ecumenical organisation.
“I stand humbled by this responsibility,” he said.
He also pledged to break denominational walls and collaborating with others as one body in Christ and promote dialogue, reconciliation, and a feeling of camaraderie in their various communities.
He said the council would support men and women of vision, integrity, and impeccable character to lead as well as ensuring that the youth, women, and marginalised were included in the journey of faith and nation-building.
“Our calling is explicit – to unite in Christ, walk in peace, and to take responsibility for shaping the future of our society.
“If we stand together, we will not only strengthen the church, but also secure a Southeast where faith inspires unity, unity sustains peace, and peace drives development,” Monanu said.