The Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province on the Niger, Most Revd Alexander Ibezim, has charged fathers to take total responsibility for their families against the hot chase for materialism.
Ibezim, also Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, Anglican Communion, charged fathers to live their lives in the fear of God in order to achieve their full potential and grow their families in the path of God.
He gave the charge during a special service in Awka to mark the 2024 Fathers’ Day celebration in the Anglican Church.
The cleric, whose message centred on the theme of the year, “Christian fathers are living testimony of God’s glory” was delivered by the Vicar of the church, Venerable Ekenedilichukwu Nwafor.
He thanked God for the gift of Fathers to humanity and described them as the glory of every home, without whose sacrifices and unwavering assistance to their wives, the home may not be a safe place to live in.
The archbishop noted that fathers were the image of God that carried His glory and could only manifest God’s glory by fearing him and seeking to keep His commandments always.
Ibezim urged fathers to love their families by making a significant sacrifice for their salvation and well being and appreciated all Fathers in the Awka Anglican Diocese for their sacrifices towards the progress of the church.
He also advised fathers to ensure they raised godly family units that would translate to a safer society and a better Nigeria.
Dr. Chukwudi Okoli, the Accountant General of Anambra State, commended the founders of the day, saying they created room for families to share special days with their fathers.
Okoli said the celebration also gave room for closer bonding amongst the nuclear family members and quality relationships in the family.
Chief Tim Egboka, former legislator in the Anambra State House of Assembly, explained that Father’s Sunday was a day designed to honour fathers whom God had bequeathed the responsibilities of moulding, guiding and providing for the family.
He also urged them to always pray for their families and live exemplary lives for their wives and children to emulate.
Chief Chido Obidiegwu, managing director of the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), thanked God for keeping fathers alive to celebrate their day.