Priotise gender justice, women’s empowerment; Arch Bishop charges congregants
The Archbishop of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), Most Rev. Musa Filibus PhD, has advised leaders to lead with justice wherever they are serving. Musa made the suggestion while opening the 100th annual church conference at the covenant site in Demsa, Adamawa State.
He said this year’s meeting comes as the nation is suffering numerous issues, including insecurity, corruption, and misuse of power, but he urged prayers for political change, healing of divisions, an end to corruption, and peace.
The Archbishop said that as children of light, they should spread Christ’s light and work for justice and peace, especially for the marginalised.
He said, “As Christ’s followers, we embody the world’s light. We are called to reflect Christ’s light and shine it into every corner of society, especially in these difficult times.”
He stressed the significance of this year’s gathering, calling it a century of God’s faithfulness.
He said that the modest meeting of 20 individuals has turned into an annual national conference with over 70,000 participants from varied backgrounds. This year, they estimate approximately 100,000 attendees.
The Most Rev. Dr. Musa thanked the church members for their continuous dedication to God and their service to humanity. He said this centenary assembly is proof of God’s steadfastness, and he urged the congregation to seek a future of deeper faith, a stronger mission, and greater togetherness.
He challenged the church to commit to gender justice and women’s empowerment.
“Gender-based violence and inequality must be fought, as well as barriers to everyone’s potential, especially women’s and youth’s.” This is not merely a societal issue. It’s a church matter.
In Christ, there is no male or female; society develops when all, including women and young people, are given equal opportunity to lead and contribute their quota meaningfully,” he remarked.
The Archbishop thanked the bishops, clergy, and Church members for their support of God’s work and urged them to keep it up.
He equally complimented the Global and Ecumenical members for their strong ties and partnership and prayed for more unity in God’s kingdom.
Most Rev. Dr. Musa reflected on the theme for this year’s convention: “You are the Light of the World” and exhorted the followers of Christ to accept their mission and beam His light in a world that needs hope. The gathering featured prayers, worship songs, and moving sermons.