By Emeka Odogwu
Christians in the country, particularly in Anambra State, have been urged to stand firm in their faith and boldly defend it in the face of all forms of challenges.
The Archdeacon of Nnobi Archdeaconry and Vicar of St. Simon’s Anglican Church, Nnobi, Diocese on the Niger, Ven. Angus Umeh, made the call recently, during a special Sunday service held at the St. Simon’s Anglican Church.
In a 30-minute sermon he said during the service, Ven. Umeh emphasized that faith was a divine gift that should be cherished, upheld, and fearlessly proclaimed.
He called on believers to resolutely reject fear, doubt, and societal pressures which he said were seeking to undermine christian values.
“Do not be ashamed of your faith,” he declared, saying, “In a world where Christian beliefs are increasingly challenged, we must rise and defend the truth of the Gospel. Our faith is our identity, and we should never compromise it.”
Citing some encouraging Bible passages apparently to engender steadfastness, Ven. Umeh quoted Apostle Paul as boldly asserting in Romans 1:16, ‘For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.’
The venerable reminded all christian faithful that standing for Christ was a duty, even in the face of criticism or opposition.
He lamented the growing trend of religious apathy among some christian youth in the state, noting, “Today, many shy away from publicly declaring their faith due to fear of ridicule or discrimination”.
Consequently the Man of God passionately admonished believers to remain resolute, explaining that defending their faith did not necessarily mean engaging in acrimonious religious arguments but rather by living a Christ-centered life, which according to him, “reflects the values of love, righteousness, and truth”.
The special Sunday service drew hundreds of parishioners, church leaders, and visitors, most of who expressed appreciation for the message, describing it as a timely reminder at a time when they said the Christian Faith was increasingly tested by modern societal pressures.
