Most Rev. Ndukuba Urges New Priests, Deacons to Promote Peace

According to The Guardian, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has urged newly ordained deacons and priests to make peace, unity and love the foundation of their ministry. The Anglican leader said strong families remain the bedrock of a stable and prosperous nation.

Ndukuba made the appeal during the Diaconate and Priesthood Trinity Ordination Service at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Abuja. He stressed that rebuilding family values would help Nigeria confront many of its social, economic and moral challenges.

The Primate explained that the Church carefully screens every candidate before ordination. He noted that only those who demonstrate sound character, discipline and spiritual maturity qualify for the sacred office.

Addressing the newly ordained ministers, the cleric encouraged them to reflect Christ in both their homes and ministry. Rather than chase titles or recognition, he urged them to embrace humility, compassion and sacrificial service.

The Anglican leader reminded the priests that ministry extends beyond preaching. They must care for people from every background, proclaim God’s Word faithfully, strengthen the weak, encourage the discouraged and minister to those in need.

Turning to family life, Ndukuba said every minister must first build a godly home. According to him, healthy Christian families strengthen both the Church and the nation.

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The Primate also challenged the new deacons to serve with compassion. He urged them to care for the poor, comfort those in distress, strengthen believers and reach out to people who have drifted from the faith.

Speaking on spiritual growth, the Archbishop encouraged the ordinands to study the Scriptures consistently. A strong knowledge of God’s Word, he said, would prepare them for effective and faithful ministry.

Ndukuba further urged the priests to uphold the doctrines of the Church of Nigeria. They should respect church discipline, honour constituted authority and defend biblical truth without compromise.

The Church leader also called on them to preach boldly and serve with integrity. Such commitment, he said, would strengthen the Church and make a meaningful contribution to nation-building.

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Before concluding his address, the Primate thanked bishops, clergy, members of the legal team, guests and the families of the ordinands for supporting the service. He prayed that God would continue to strengthen them in their various assignments.

Delivering the sermon, the Bishop of Ukwa Diocese, Rt. Rev. Manasses Okere, reminded the newly ordained ministers that priesthood demands faithfulness, humility and self-denial rather than personal ambition. The bishop urged them to become men of prayer, remain devoted to God’s Word and shepherd God’s people with sincerity.

Okere also encouraged the ministers to defend biblical truth with courage, promote unity within the Church and continue praying earnestly for Nigeria and its people.

The service concluded with the ordination of 24 ministers into holy orders, comprising 10 deacons and 14 priests.

Source: The Guardian