The 16th Synod of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Ihube with the theme “Ärise and Build” kicked on Thursday 9th May, 2024, at the Archbishop Dimoji Memorial Cathedral, Ihube.
The synod being hosted by Cathedral Circuit with the Very Rev. I.M.A Okwudiri as the Presbyter began with Eucharist service officiated by the Bishop, Rt. Rev. C.C Ekebuisi who declared the synod open and welcomed all delegates to the 2024 synod.
Preaching at the event on the 2024 theme of Conference, “Arise and Build” drawn from (Nehemiah 2:17-18), the Very Rev Aaron Akabuokwu described the theme as a direct invitation to Methodists to rise up from sleep of indifference and change the current narrative of the Church.
Centering his sermon on “The burden to build”, the Very Rev Akabuokwu defined burden as something that is burning in one to do something the way God wants it to be, arguing that one won’t have burden until he realizes that something is not normal.
According to him, men of burden are men of prayer who are also organizers and achievers and challenged all to always pray and ensure that the work of God does not suffer or die in our hands, assuring that our labour for humanity and God will never go unrewarded.
The session featured addresses of the Prelate His Eminence Dr Oliver Ali Aba, Bishop the Rt Rev Ekebuisi and the lay President, Sir Prince Ebere Nwokoro.
The synod delegates later went into the ministerial and Lay sessions where progress on the work of God were seriously discussed.
The synod is expected to be rounded off on Sunday, (12/5/24).
