By Ihechi Enyinnaya
Sir Chibu Enwereuzor(Ogbaturuenyi Mbaise) has congratulated Rt. Rev. Chamberlain Ogunedo on the successful Second Session of the Eleventh Synod of Anglican Communion, Mbaise Diocese.
The Epoch occasion which started on Thursday the 23rd, ended on Sunday the 26th May 2024 Sunday the 26th at Immanuel Church Otulu Amumara.
In a press statement obtained by Daily Review Online, Ogbaturenyi who was the Chairman of the Archeadeconry Planning Committee for the Synod and a Special Guest, praised the Anglican Bishop of Mbaise Diocese Rt. Rev. Chamberlain Ogunedo, the Archeadecon for Amumara Archdeaconry Venerable Ozioma Nwaogazi, the Parish Priest of Immanuel Anglican Church Otulu Rev. Canon Dan Anosike, the Parish Priest of the Church of Pentecost Rev. Basil Adikwuru, the Diocesan Planning Committee Chairman Sir Chidi Madugba, the LOC Chairman Dr. Ephraim Nwachukwu and all the good People of Otulu Autonomous Community for a Successful 2024 Synod of the Diocese of Mbaise.
Ogbaturuenyi also appreciated leader of the Women Ministries Mrs. Oluchi Ogunedo, wife of the Bishop as well as Chief Mrs. Chinyere Ihediwa who hosted the Bishops.
Part of the statement read: “Your dedication to the Anglican Communion and your tireless efforts to uphold its values and traditions are truly commendable, this is the reason the Synod has flourished, fostering unity, fellowship, and spiritual growth among the faithful.
“As a member of the Mbaise community, I am deeply grateful for your unwavering commitment to serving the Lord and His people. Your exemplary leadership inspires us all to strive for excellence and to live out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives.
“May the blessings of the Lord continue to guide and sustain you as you lead our diocese with grace and compassion. Once again, congratulations on a successful Synod, and may the fruits of your labor continue to enrich the lives of all who call Mbaise Diocese their spiritual home.”
It is recalled that the service, which commenced around 11:15am, was conducted by Ven. Stephen Ozioma Nwaogazi, JP. The 1st lesson was delivered by the Bishop of Isiala Ngwa Diocese, The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Temple O. Nwogu, while the 2nd lesson was read by the synod planning committee chairman, Sir Chidi Madugba.
The Sermon was delivered by the synod’s guest speaker, The Rt. Rev’d Manasses Chijiokem Okere, the Diocesan Bishop of Ukwa, focusing on the theme of the synod, “The Perils of Overconfidence,” derived from 1st Corinthians 10:12.
Bishop Chijiokem expounded on the dangers of overconfidence, refuting the notion of self-made individuals and emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God’s grace in all aspects of life. Drawing from biblical examples and contemporary illustrations like the Titanic disaster, he underscored the folly of arrogance and warned against the consequences of neglecting God in our plans.
He cautioned against the prevalence of pomposity and pride, urging both laity and clergy to guard against the pitfalls of overconfidence. He emphasized the need for humility and vigilance, highlighting that complacency often precedes downfall.
Following the sermon, a Thanksgiving service was held to express gratitude to God Almighty. The Synod Torch was returned by Mbaise people residing in Europe and abroadians in the USA. Additionally, Bishop Chamberlain was presented with his portrait by Amb. Madu Chukwudi, JP, MNIS, while the synod hosting banner was handed over from Immanuel Church Otulu Amumara to St. Mark’s Okpofe, the host of next year’s synod.
Distinguished guests at the Synod Sunday Thanksgiving Service, included Imo State’s second in command, Her Excellency Barr. Dr. Mrs. Nnedimma Ekomaru, accompanied by her husband, Chief Barr. Chukwuma Ekomaru (SAN), with the Deputy Governor representing Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Also in attendance were His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Emeka Nkem Ihedioha, KSC, CON, alongside Sir Stanley Amuchie (ED, Fidelity Bank Plc), and Hon. Ugochukwu Princewill Amuchie, Member representing Aboh Mbaise state constituency in the Imo House of Assembly.
Other notable figures present included Her Excellency, Lady Ada Okwuonu (former deputy governor of Imo State (2007-2011), Hon. Oliver Enwerem, Sir Surv. Joe Anosike(PG Ezuruezu Mbaise) Sir Ernest Enwereuzor (Ogbaturuenyi Mbaise), Sir Sam Ahiarakwem (CEO, Samic Investment Ltd), Hon. Chief Victor Iheanacho (Ikemba I of Obohia), Barr. Sir Kester Enwereonu, Chief Barr. Sir Uzoma Onyeike, Barr. Sir Ernest Nwagu. HRH Eze R.J.C Aguwamba (Ezeoha II of Okopfe), HRH. Eze Ossy Nwokocha (Umara lll of Adakam Amumara), and HRH. Eze Felix Ogbonna (Aloma ll of Adakam).