By Etatsemi Onoriode
Obiaruku: As part of activities to mark the 2017 Children’s Day celebration, the St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Obiaruku organized a service to celebrate the children with a call on Christians to always bless their children and wards as parental blessings shape their destinies.
This call was made by Lay Reader, John Okorigwe during his exaltation at the ceremony. While reading from Proverbs 22:6 “train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it”, he emphasized the need for parents to bless their children everyday irrespective of their mistakes and wrongdoings because whatever the parents are saying concerning their children is what they will eventually become.
Lay Reader Okorigwe noted that the training of children amongst other things include; loving and caring for them; providing and teaching them in the ways of the Lord; giving them attention; correcting and shaping them on how best to live their lives; as well as restrictions and beating and sanctions when they do wrong.
He advised the children to always obey their parents even as he enjoined parents to live exemplary lives for their children to emulate as well as build a loving family where peace reigns at all times.
Meanwhile, the Mother of the Day, Dr (Mrs) V. Okonta further stressed the need for children to be obedient and respectful. She also advised them to shun evil and bad companies at all cost and to study their books daily in order to excel in their academics pursuit; and avoid indulging in any form of examination malpractices; “love one another
and live a worthy live pleasing to God, that way, you will attract the blessings of God into your life”, she added.
The Bishop of Ndokwa Diocese, Rt. Rev’d David Obiosa who was present to witness the celebration also prayed for good health, God’s wisdom, and protection upon the children and he blessed the children.
Also, the Vicar-in-Charge of St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Obiaruku, the Rev’d Victor Okuazu expressed his gratitude to God for the success of the children’s Day Celebration and prayed God to bless the children and cause them to live daily for His glory.
The highlight of the day was the cutting of the Children’s Day Cake and the presentation of a brand new bicycle to Miss Favour Kikenme who won the raffle draw.
