By Anthony
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Attorney Charles Chibuike Onyirimba, the senatorial flag bearer of the Action Democratic Party, ADP, on Sunday worshipped with the congregation of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Umuduruegwele, Ehime Mbano, in a memorable service marked by thanksgiving, prayer, children’s celebration and words of hope for the future.
The service coincided with the church’s Children’s Harvest, placing the young members of the congregation at the heart of a joyful celebration of faith, growth and promise.
With the parish priest, Rev. Odinaka Okereke, on leave, his wife led prayers for the children, drawing inspiration from several biblical passages. She prayed that the children would grow in wisdom, grace and accomplishment, becoming successful professionals and leaders in diverse fields.
Onyirimba subsequently addressed the children and reflected on his own formative years, recalling how actively he participated in church activities while growing up. He encouraged the children to be dutiful, obedient and disciplined, while also challenging them to dream beyond their present circumstances.
He told them that the seeds of success must be planted early, reminding them that some of them could grow into great leaders and occupy important positions of responsibility in the future, including membership of the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate and even the Presidency of Nigeria.
His message fitted naturally into the symbolism of the harvest: what is planted today can determine what is reaped tomorrow.
Towards the end of the service, the officiating minister, Rev. Ebere Maduakolam, expressed appreciation to Onyirimba for coming to fellowship with the congregation.
Citing Psalm 102:13 and other Scriptures, Rev. Maduakolam spoke about the coming of “the set time” and offered prayers concerning Onyirimba’s aspiration. He urged the congregation to pray for him, particularly for protection, preservation and success throughout his campaign.
The service therefore became more than a celebration of the children’s harvest. It was an atmosphere of worship, thanksgiving, prayer and hope, with the future of the younger generation providing a powerful backdrop.
Adding colour and excitement to the occasion, the male and female children also engaged in a Bible quiz, testing their knowledge of Scripture in an atmosphere of healthy competition.
At the end of the contest, the boys emerged victorious, bringing an entertaining close to a Sunday that celebrated faith, childhood, possibility and the promise of tomorrow.
