Anglican Bishop tasks Nigerians to reject fear arising from insecurity

By Cyprian Ebele, Onitsha

The Bishop on the Niger, Anglican Communion, Anambra State, the Rt Rev. Owen Nwokolo  has tasked Nigerians, especially in Anambra to reject fear arising from insecurity and sins that is capable of destroying the economic development of the nation.

Bishop, Nwokoloko noted that the birth of Jesus Christ is to remove fear and sin from mankind to enable the society forge ahead in line with the teachings of the gospel.

Explaining further, the Bishop reminded Nigerians that Christmas is fundamentally about Christ and the victory of hope over fear, urging citizens to use the season to renew society through love, giving and reconciliation.

He said that the birth of Jesus Christ signified God’s deliberate intervention in human history to deliver humanity from sin and fear, and to transform lives for effective living in society. 

Speaking during his Christmas message, he recalled the angelic proclamation in the Gospel of St Luke, Chapter 2 verse 11, describing it as Good News meant for “all people” without restriction.

 According to him, the Christmas message is universal and timeless, stressing that fear remains a common experience across nations, including Nigeria and Anambra State, arising from insecurity, personal challenges, evil influences and unforeseen circumstances. 

He noted, however, that the coming of Christ dispels fear and restores courage, joy and peace to humanity.

Bishop Nwokolo said that the joy of Christmas should not remain theoretical or confined to carols and celebrations, but must be expressed practically through acts of love, sharing and compassion. 

 The  Prelate described Christmas as a season to make others feel the presence of Christ by caring for the depressed, the downtrodden and those who he said would find it difficult to celebrate.

He urged individuals to give generously, settle disputes, forgive one another and intentionally bring happiness to others, noting that Christians were called to mirror God’s gift to humanity by becoming gifts to fellow human beings.

The cleric emphasized that society could only truly experience Christmas when the joy of the season reached every corner and every person felt valued and loved.

While wishing Nigerians a celebration filled with joy, peace and satisfaction, Bishop Nwokolo encouraged everyone to “celebrate in a way that allows others to celebrate as well.

 “Let others celebrate with you,” he appealed, wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas.