Fathers in the Anglican Communion, Awka Diocese, were celebrated with special church services today as part of International Father’s Day.
The services were designed to honor fathers for their significant roles in families and society and to remind them of their primary responsibilities in building a better community.
In various churches visited by ABS on Sunday morning, fathers actively participated in the services by reading lessons, leading prayer sessions, and serving as sidesmen, pastors, and people’s wardens. Clad in their Diocesan Fathers’ Fellowship uniforms, they were showered with prayers and gifts from their families.
At St. Stephen’s Church, Agulu, Venerable Silas Ike, the Vicar and Archdeacon on the Lake, delivered a sermon on the theme “Christian Fathers Are Living Testimonies Of God’s Glory.” He urged fathers to remain righteous before God and avoid alcoholism and idol worship. Venerable Ike emphasized that some fathers’ weaknesses have contributed to the degradation of societal values and morals, urging them to be role models of love and spirituality for their children.
Similarly, at Christ Redemption Church, Awka, Venerable Dr. Rex Kanu called on Christian fathers to demonstrate God’s love and lead others on a righteous path by upholding sanity and morals. He condemned behaviors such as wife battering, adultery, and idolatry, reminding fathers of their God-given duty to care for and love their families.
At Saint Mark’s Church, Enugwu-Agidi, Venerable Dr. Nnamdi Emendu reminded fathers that as heads of their families, they must be inclusive and not tyrannical to ensure their families reflect God’s glory.
Sir Benson Orakwelu, a member of the Christian Fathers’ Fellowship in Agulu, expressed that fathers are worth celebrating and encouraged them to fulfill their responsibilities with love, knowing that God supports them at all times.
