Methodist elevates Yaba to Archdiocese

The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Most Rev Samuel Uche Kanu has urged the congregant to see the elevation of Mainland Diocese to an archdiocese and the enthronement of the serving bishop to an archbishop as a call to expand evangelism and an outreach to wider audience and win souls for Christ.

He made this known at the inauguration of the archdiocese and the enthronement of Most Rev Obafemi Bamidele Adeleye, which took place at Hoares Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Sabo Yaba on Saturday. Speaking during the Sermon, the Prelate charged the new Archbishop to see his position as a leader over many people of God including Bishops, Priests and lay faithful in his Archdiocese. He therefore admonished him not to be a hypocrite, rather work the talk to grow the church in Mainland Archdiocese.

“What we do in secret affect the church openly, therefore carry the gospel to the market, government house and other places. Don’t be a bishop who is ashamed to preach the gospel”, the prelate said.

Reading out the duties of a Bishop, the prelate said that a Bishop leads by example, care for the downtrodden in the society and must be contented. He further
urged the bishop to desist from manipulating the faithful and concentrate on leading the flocks and preparing them for heaven.

While charging the lay faithful to respect the ministers of God posted to their parishes, the Prelate praised the selfless services of members in Lagos, saying “any Minister who doesn’t succeed in Lagos has himself to blame because the laity in Lagos are always ready to help”

Speaking to newsmen at the end of the service, the new Archbishop said his priority is to take evangelism and winning of soul to the higher level. He also pledged to take youth empowerment and skill acquisition serious. Chairman of Yaba Local Council of Hon. Omiyole Kayode, congratulated the archbishop for his enthronement and reiterated his commitment to work with the church to eradicate social vices in the area. He noted that Yaba is a host of many Christian denominations.