Christian leaders have been enjoined to be equipped with necessary tools and insights to navigate challenges and lead their congregation effectively.

The Chairman, Ondo State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Very Rev’d Fr. Anselm Ologunwa gave the charge at a three-day leadership retreat for State Executives and Local Government chairmen of the association held at the Domus Pacis Catholic Pastoral Centre in Akure.

In his welcome address, he said, the retreat came at a crucial time when the world is facing numerous challenges, noting that the church plays a pivotal role in addressing the so called challenges.

He said the retreat will also afford them the opportunity to reflect on their callings as leaders, seek God’s guidance and to learn from one another.

The cleric said, Jesus modelled the behavior he expected from his disciples, show them how to love , serve one another and how to live a life of humility and obedience to God.

He used the occasion to acknowledge the co-operation of both the state and local government executives in the running of the association and urged them to continue in their service to God and mankind.

Fr. Ologunwa also applauded the contribution of the sponsor of the programme, a man whom he described as a lover of good things and pray God to continue to replenish him abundantly.

In his lecture entitled “who is a disciple”, the. Bishop, African Church, Ondo Central Missionary Diocese, Akure, Right Rev’d David Akinremi,  tasked the religious leaders to examine their lives and see where they need to cry to God to receive mercy in the days and years ahead for effective ministry.

He urged them not to allow their different religious titles to go into their head in their day to day activities and in their service to mankind.

Also in his lecture on “School of Ministry” the founder of Agape Church,    Right Rev’d Felix Remi Adejumo, described discipleship as a journey of life that must be followed religiously by a would-be servant.

He said a true disciple is a dedicated follower of Christ, who believes and is ready to spread the doctrine of another and always says yes to his master.