The Lutheran Church of God in Diobu District, Port Harcourt, recently held a thanksgiving ceremony to celebrate the 73rd birthday of Deaconess Cecilia Thomas, a member of the church. During the ceremony, her son Edidiong Thomas was unveiled as an Elder. The event highlighted the church's concern about children deviating from the right path and engaging in evil practices. Many members of the congregation praised Deaconess Thomas for raising her children with excellent character and career, despite facing challenges as a single mother.
Deaconess Cecilia Thomas attributed her success in raising her children to prayer and Christian values. She emphasized that prayer is a powerful tool that can reach children anywhere, even if they are not physically present. Thomas also stressed the importance of teaching children the word of God and Christian culture. Her son, Edidiong Thomas, echoed her sentiments, stating that family norms and values play a crucial role in shaping a child's behavior.
Edidiong Thomas, who was installed as an Elder during the ceremony, shared his thoughts on why many children are going astray. He believes that parents who are immature and influenced by social factors contribute to this problem. Thomas urged parents to emulate good role models and instill traditional values in their children. He also emphasized the importance of balancing career goals with childcare and family responsibilities.
Reverend Oliver Iwoha, Port Harcourt District Superintendent of the Lutheran Church of Nigeria, Diobu, also spoke at the ceremony. He discussed why evil individuals often occupy government positions, stating that leaders often prefer to promote people who will do their bidding and cover up their mistakes. Iwoha urged society to choose God-fearing and straightforward individuals for leadership roles.
Reverend Iwoha advised voters to elect leaders who are accountable, humble, and sincere. He cited Peter Obi, a well-loved politician, as an example of a leader who is often feared by those in authority because of his straightforwardness. Iwoha emphasized the importance of voting for leaders who will truly represent the people and tell them the truth.
The thanksgiving ceremony was a double celebration for Deaconess Thomas and her son Edidiong. Thomas expressed gratitude to God for the bright weather on a day in September, typically a rainy month in the region. Edidiong Thomas also shared his joy and appreciation for being installed as an Elder and for the celebration of his mother's 73rd birthday.
The event concluded with Reverend Iwoha reflecting on his journey back to Diobu after many years away. He noted that he had taken over as a lay preacher in Owaza in 1987 from Deaconess Thomas's late husband. Iwoha expressed his joy at witnessing the celebration of Deaconess Thomas's 73rd birthday and her son's installation as an Elder.
Key points
- The Lutheran Church in Diobu emphasizes the importance of prayer, Christian values, and traditional norms in guiding children away from evil practices.
