Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese Of D/line Ends Synod
T9th Synod of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of D/line held between May 9 to 12, 2019 at D/line Cathedral Mbonu/ogbia Street D/line, Port Harcourt. The church, in a unanimous decision presided over by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Etim Ekong, JP, the Bishop of the Diocese of D/line, Synod, resolved as follows:
Synod encourages all Christians, irrespective of their denominations, to embrace peace and unity in the body of Christ and the nation at large.
Synod acknowledged that the main aim of the Church is to win more souls to God. However, it observed that soul winning is gradually lacking in some Churches. Christians were, therefore, encouraged to focus on evangelism and soul winning, to make disciples and expand the Kingdom of God.
Synod reflects on the theme of Conference
and remarked that without Obedience to God, no man can make an acceptable sacrifice. Thus, all Christians were encouraged to obey God, so that our sacrifices will be acceptable unto Him.
Synod acknowledges the effort of the Federal Government of Nigeria for its anti-corruption crusade and pledged its support. However, Synod noted that this crusade is not all inclusive but rather selective, and therefore urged the Federal Government to re-visit the anti-corruption crusade, and make it an all-inclusive war, irrespective of party, person, religion or culture.
Synod appreciates God for the conduct of 2019 Election by INEC in Nigeria and Rivers State in particular, but frowned at the incessant destruction of lives and property, during the elections. It urged all Nigerians to regard the Sacredness of lives and ensure a peaceful living with one another.
Synod appreciated the Government of Rivers State for seeking peace after the general election by offering “Olive branch” to all, irrespective of party affiliations. Synod pleaded with all warring factions in the state to come together and embrace peace, for the well being of the State and its Citizenry.
Synod acknowledged Federal Government’s efforts at eliminating this menace and expressed deep concern that despite the Federal Government interventions, the spread of banditry and kidnapping are on the increase. The Synod, therefore, urged the Federal Government to step up strategies to avert these evil trends and ensure safety of lives and property in the country.
Synod appreciated democracy and separation of powers as the best form of Government. However, Synod regrets that democracy is turning into millitocracy, with strong attempt to silence the Legislative and Judiciary arms of Government. Synod, therefore, urged Federal and State Governments to avert these trends and also called on all Christians to support democracy and respect the rule of law.
Synod calls on members of the Judiciary to make sure they show themselves approved as workmen that need not to be ashamed or intimidated in the administration of Justice. Synod further frowns at attempt to intimidate the Judiciary, which is the hope of the common man.
Synod calls on Government at all levels, to improve the standard of living of Nigerians and build a stronger Economy. Synod appreciates Government pronouncement and effort towards infrastructural development, at the Federal and some State levels. It further calls on Government at all levels to repair roads, provide adequate electricity and other civil needs of the citizens, in fulfillment of its social responsibilities and to also uphold the fundamental rights of its Citizens, as enshrined in chapter 2 and 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).