Methodist Cathedral of Grace, Kubwa, Abuja was filled to capacity on Sunday as Methodist faithfuls in Abuja and dignitaries from all walks of lives gathered for the enthronement of Rt Rev (Dr) Frederick Agada Onoja as the Bishop of Kubwa Diocese.
During the service officiated by the Methodist Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Rev Dr Michael Olusegun Akinwale, the third Lay President of the Diocese, Elder James Uchechukwu Duru was officially presented to the congregation.
In his Sermon, Bishop Onoja expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to lead with humility, faith, and a commitment to the growth of the church in general and Kubwa Diocese in particular.
He said rigorous evangelism would be key to his stewardship in the Diocese.
According to him, “I am here to work and will need the understanding, cooperation, and support of the people of Kubwa Methodist faithfuls, and even non-Methodists.
“Our mission is to advance God’s Kingdom, save souls, and positively impact society, especially in the face of negative influences. We aim to shine the light of Jesus in our community to glorify God.”
In a chat with newsmen shortly after the service, the Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Revd. Michael Akinwale, charged Bishop Onoja to lead with wisdom, courage, and a commitment to unity and collaboration.
Most Rev Akinwale encouraged members of the diocese to support the new bishop in his ministry, while also emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration.
According to him, the position to serve in the vineyard of God is an herculean task, but when God is involved, it will always be a peaceful journey.
“All he needs to do is work with his lay president and members, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead him.
“Administering a church isn’t easy, but with God’s guidance, it becomes manageable. I believe he has the capacity to make this diocese formidable, and I wish him well. All we can do is pray for him because it’s a divine mission,” he said.
Addressing the nation’s challenges, Akinwale expressed hope in the country’s future, saying that, “This is a phase we are passing through, and there will be light at the end of the tunnel.
“Every country has its challenges; it’s not peculiar to Nigeria. What matters is seeing Nigeria as a divine project and our commonwealth.
“We need patriotism, patience, and to give the government some time. These issues didn’t arise overnight, and solutions will take time. Everyone must play their part”.
It would be recalled that the 49th/14th Biennial conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria endorsed the nomination of Onoja as the new Bishop after succeeding the former Bishop, Rt. Revd. Dr Chikwendu Igwe who has been elevated to the status of an Archbishop and translated to the new Ebonyi Archdiocese.
Rt Rev Dr F.A. G.Onoja elected Bishop in 2022 was translated from Agatu Diocese in Benue Archdiocese. He served the Church as Evangelist from1995-1997, Commissioned as Deacon in 2000, Ordained a Priest in 2003 and appointed a Presbyter in 2010.
Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of Elder James Uchechukwu Duru as the Lay President of the Diocese as well as the dedication of Diocesan Officers elected during the 12th Annual Synod of the Diocese in Gwagwalada Circuit.
Dignitaries who attended the Enthronement Service included the paramount ruler of the Idoma nation, Och’Idoma, HRM, Elaigwu Odogbo John, who was represented by Federal Representative representing Apa/Agatu constituency of Benue state in the National Assembly, Honourable Ojema Ojotu.
Others included a retired Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev Dr Oche Job; the former military Governor of Plateau and Katsina state, Major-General Lawrence Anebi Onoja (rtd); the Methodist Archdiocesan Lay President of Abuja Archdiocese, Sir AVM Dr John Kayode-Beckley (rtd); and the Chairman of the Abuja Chapter of the Council of Knights, Sir Barr. Samuel Osahon.
Congratulations my Bishop. We pray for more grace in your ministry
More grace Sir
The Lord is your strength