20th Synod: Continue to Pray for Peace, Oyo Head of Service Charges Churches

The Oyo State Head of Service. Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni has charged Churches in Nigeria to continue to stand as a beacon of hope, a voice of truth and a pillar of moral guidance to the society.

She stated this during the opening ceremony of the 20th synod of the Methodist Church Diocese, Age, Igbo Elerin, Ibadan, with the Theme; “I Will Fight For You”.

She said the  theme of the synod echoes Exodus 14:14, where Moses tells the Israelites, trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the Red Sea: “The LORD shall fight for you and you shall hold your peace. ”God demonstrated His ability to deliver by parting the Red Sea, drowning the enemy and setting His people free, this account shows that when God fights for His people, no obstacle is insurmountable.

The Head of Service said the Church is more than a place of worship; it is a moral and spiritual pillar of the nation. Its contribution to national security is both spiritual and practical.

“For Nigeria, this means we can trust God’s power while also doing our part, praying fervently, acting justly and supporting the structures that protect lives and property”.

She continued, “at this moment in our nation’s history, we are reflecting on the theme “I Will Fight for You. ”These words are not merely a slogan; they are a divine promise that has carried God’s people through every age and they speak directly to our present reality.

Mrs. Oni hinted further that God’s promise to fight for us does not imply passivity on our part, throughout the Scripture, divine intervention worked hand in hand with human responsibility.

“In a time like this, when our society is confronted with numerous challenges moral, social and economic the role of the Church becomes even more critical”.

“The Synod is not merely a routine meeting; it is a sacred platform for reflection, renewal and collective decision-making under divine guidance. It is a time for the Church to assess its journey, strengthen its mission and chart a forward-looking course in fulfilling its spiritual and societal responsibilities. Such gatherings remind us that the Church is both a spiritual family and a moral force in the life of the nation”.

She added that Churches can mediate conflicts, counsel aggrieved parties and preach messages that reduce ethnic and religious tension in a diverse nation like Nigeria, the Church’s voice for peace is indispensable.

She enjoined Churches to partner with security agencies by sharing information, organizing community watch groups, providing safe spaces and praying for the security personnel for their protection and for God to expose any act of betrayal or compromise, as Judas Iscariot betrayed Christ, many lives have been lost to banditry and kidnapping, including evangelists, clergy, engineers and other gifted citizens who could have contributed to our nation’s development.

She opined  that many security challenges stem from poverty and idleness, the Church can offer vocational training, youth mentorship and support for the vulnerable, both in cities and in rural communities by removing the conditions that fuel crime.

“Nigeria’s security is not solely the responsibility of the armed forces, it is a collective effort. The Synod is not merely a routine meeting; it is a sacred platform for reflection, renewal and collective decision-making under divine guidance. It is a time for the Church to assess its journey, strengthen its mission, and chart a forward-looking course in fulfilling its spiritual and societal responsibilities. Such gatherings remind us that the Church is both a spiritual family and a moral force in the life of the nation’s task in which the Church lights the path of hope, truth, and unity.

“I am particularly delighted to note that the Methodist Church has remained steadfast in its commitment to spiritual growth, community development and nation-building. Your contributions in education, healthcare, and the moral upbringing of our youths are commendable and worthy of emulation.

She admonished the Church to continue partnering with the Government and other stakeholders in promoting good governance, peace, and sustainable development to  build a society that is just, prosperous and harmonious.

In his remarks, The Bishop of the Diocese of Agodi, Rt. Rev. Simeon.  Onaleke appreciated the Head of Service for the word of encouragement, saying that, the 20th Synod will be fruitful, spirit-filled and impactful.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS