From Abraham Akpabio
LAGOS
A cleric has advised fathers to stand up to their responsibilities, imbibe the spirit of commitment, love, care and sacrifice in their families and society in general.
Congregational pastor of United Evangelical Church (Founded as Qua Iboe Church), Surulere, Rev Idorenyin James, gave the advice in his message during service to mark the 2022 Fathers Day, which took place at the Surulere cathedral of UEC, Lagos, at the weekend.
On the theme of the celebration, “Father as the Glory Bearer,” with scriptural reference drawn from Numbers 30:1-8, the clergyman said men (fathers) who are life sources and reflection of God’s glory were created as an express image and glory of God, therefore, they should respect and maintain their God-given position as heads and live up to their responsibilities.
The cleric urged them not to allow their businesses or life challenges to prevent them from serving God and living up to their responsibilities.
James, a Christian father, while noting that fatherhood called for responsibility, enjoined them to do things the right way as good deeds attract heavenly reward and every evil deed would attract condemnation.
According to him, “I charge you, beloved fathers, fatherhood is responsibility which requires confidence, care, love, authority and leadership. Therefore, you all should live and understand your obligations and responsibilities as men and husbands to your wives, children and the society at large.
“The home is a place to celebrate and not a place to be oppressing and beating your wife and children. The father and mother should stay together to raise their children. Try to understand your differences and live happily together,” he advised.
He called on wives and children to also love, appreciate, respect and celebrate their husbands and fathers who are life source and reflection of God’s glory.
Chairman of the planning committee and moderator of the Fathers Day service, Elder Samuel Bassey, said he felt overwhelmed with what he saw and lessons learnt at this year’s Fathers Day celebration.
He enjoined Christian fathers in particular to hearken to the advice of the clergyman as well as lead by example from their homes and radiate qualities worthy of emulation, to be picked as role models by their children, wards and others.
The Lagos superintendent pastor of UEC, Rev Charles Nwogwugwu, while praying God to grant fathers grace to liveup to expectations and responsibilities, endure the bad economy in the country and to be steadfast in their faith, assured them of a better future.
The celebration featured song competition, drama presentation, debate, men special choral – “Akam Obong”(The Lord’s prayer) led by a lyricist, Elder Ime Jimmy, cutting of cake and prayer of rededication of Christian fathers.
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