—As Archbishop Ibezim admonishes fathers
By Odogwu Emeka Odogwu
The Archdeacon, CHS Awka Archdeaconry, Ven Dr Onyeka Egwuonwu on Sunday said the notion of calling some children Illegitimate is wrong.
He insisted that no child is illegitimate, particularly when the child has a father who impregnated his or her mother.
“There is nothing like illegitimate child because every child has a father. If a woman can’t give account of who impregnated her, it becomes a problem, but not that of the innocent child”.
He described three components of a name, comprising; identity, destiny and character as what makes every name unique and outstanding; hence, every father should strive to have a good name.
He spoke in a sermon Sunday, 16th June, 2024 to mark 2024 Fathers’ Sunday at the Church of The Holy Spirit, Awka.
He further added that good name is better than wealth and warned ladies particularly those at marriage age, not to marry wealth but good name comprising of the identity, destiny and character.
He noted that good name brings forth intelligence, innovation, wisdom and knowledge deserious of every king in his kingdom, adding that every man is a king in his family and must not loose his respect in his family sequel to his acts of complaint. He pointed out that kings don’t complain. He encouraged men to use the help from their women to build their perfect kingdoms.
Ven Dr Egwuonwu, who is also the Vicar of Church of The Holy Spirit, Awka and Chaplain of Paul University, Awka, encouraged fathers to stop exposing the weaknesses their family, but to rather, consult the alter of God whenever anything is amiss in the family.
He warned fathers to stop keeping company of sinners and ungodly people in order not to destroy their family peace, because as a father the company one keeps matter a lot.
Egwuonwu during his sermon had explained the crucial role that fathers play in the family unit, calling them to ensure sufficient guidance, support, and love to their children and spouses to reap the blessings of God.
He also highlighted the importance of fathers as role models, showing their children what it means to be responsible, caring, and respectful individuals.
Meanwhile, Ven Dr Onyeka Egwuonwu delivered the message of the Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province of Nigeria and Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Grace, Most Revd Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim PhD to fathers in the Diocese and Province.
Archbishop Ibezim in the message urged fathers to lean on God to be the strength and glory of their families.
Archbishop Ibezim is message was contained in his pastoral message to fathers on Sunday to mark the 2024 Father’s Day Celebration of the Church Of Nigeria, (Anglican Communion).
The prelate who spoke on the theme, “Christian Fathers Are Living Testimony of God’s Glory ( Psalm 8:4-5),”
Archbishop Ibezim noted that God made man in His image, just a little lower than angels and in charge of creation, and urged Christian fathers, to seek Jesus Christ in truth and spirit, so that his glory will be revealed upon them to live out their full potentials in God.
He advised men to surrender totally to the Lordship of Christ to manifest His glory, which entails fearing God and seeking to keep His commandments.
Archbishop Ibezim whose message was read at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Awka by the Archdeacon, Ven Onyeka Egwuonwu further advised men to love their family for the sake of Christ’s kingdom, thereby making their salvation sure in Jesus Christ.
Lending his voice to the sermon during an interview, Engineer Igboekwe Chukwunonso, Chairman of the 2024 Father’s Day Planning Committee, urged his fellow fathers not to misuse the authority given to them to mistreat their wives and children.
He also called on them not to relent in using their positions to propagate peace and show love to others for the good of the society.
On his own, former Chairman of Father’s Day Planning Committee and Chairman of NUJ Anambra State, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, said the celebration was significant and has reminded fathers of their core duty to guide, protect, and ensure that life of children and wives are protected for an egalitarian society.
Father’s Day climaxed with the confermet of ‘Ide’ title on seven deserving fathers for their contributions to the church’s growth.
It also witnessed the rededication of the fathers and the inauguration of the church’s Council of Laity with Dr Raymond Ofor, the new Chairman; and Mrs Esther Obialunamma Odogwu, Secretary.
