Bishop inaugurates Umunjam Archdeaconry

The Anglican Diocese of Owerri has created the Umunjam Mbieri Archdeaconry, bringing to 19 the total number of archdeaconries in the diocese.

Inaugurating the new archdeaconry, the Bishop of the diocese, Rt. Rev. Cyril C. Okorocha recalled that the occasion was sequel to the resolution at the last Synod at Christ's Anglican Church Owerri, where it was adopted that Umunjam Area comprising churches in Umunjam and Amaulu parishes in Mbieri, Mbaitoli LGA of Imo State, should be uplifted to Archdeaconry status.

Bishop Okorocha, at the occasion, dedicated the St. Peter's Hall complex, and the Vicar's house as well as performed the foundation stone laying ceremony of their Archdeaconry house.

He commended the St. Peter's congregation for their infrastructural development strides.

The prelate charged them not to use any of the church property for political purposes since such property have been dedicated and handed over to God through the church.

“Building the church is a collective responsibility, no matter one’s individual contribution”, he declared.

Preaching the sermon at the occasion, Rev. Dr. Emma Agoha, called on the people to anchor their life on Jesus Christ, stressing the need for them to be Christ-like in humility and unity.

He enjoined the parishioners to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ without adulteration and to imbibe the spirit of the Holy Trinity which binds Christians together for them to succeed as an Archdeaconry.

The preacher who drew his text from Col. 3:17 and Phil. 2:3 urged them to shun divide and rule system in all their affairs, as such in devilish.

The only lesson of the service was read by Lady Ethel Opurum and Rev. Dr. Timothy C. Agoha in both Igbo and English, respectively. while the choir of St. Peter's Church Umunjam, led by Mr. Emma Asinobi, rendered' beautiful songs at the service. Highlights of the ceremony were the institution of Rev. Can. Ozioma Ejiekpe as the Administrator of the Archdeaconry, by the Bishop, the cutting of the inauguration cake, and fund raising for the development of the Archdeaconry.

Twenty one Christian faithful were awarded certificates of honour for their contributions to the church. They include Prof. and Dr. (Mrs.) Ernest Emenyonu (KSC); Prof. R.P. Ukwuije; Sir and Lady Benson Durueke; Ven. Engr. and Dr. Mrs. E.C. Olewuezi; Sir and Lady Mark Onyeali; Sir and Onyema Opara and others.

The inauguration committee secretary, Evang. Sir Jerry Opara, in his remarks, attributed the success of the event to team work and act of God.

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