From Francis Akinnodi, Ondo
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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ondo West chapter has congratulated the newly consecrated seventh Bishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Ondo, Rt. Revd Stephen Adeniran Oni.
The Hope reports that Bishop Oni is the first Ondo indigene to become bishop in the history of the church in the kingdom, succeeding the retired Archbishop Latunji Lasebikan.
According to a congratulatory massage signed by the CAN Chairman, Rev. Fr. Richard Ademujimi, “We the CAN in Ondo West local government write to rejoice and congratulate our son, Rt. Revd. Stephen Oni on his consecration as the Bishop of Ondo Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Ondo City.
“This is the Lord’s doing and it is marvelous in our eyes. We are indeed joyous for your appointment as the Bishop of Ondo Diocese. We pray to God Almighty to guide, strengthen and grant you the grace and wisdom to successfully work in the Lord’s vineyard.
“May the good Lord continue to espouse the christian fold under his episcopacy in Jesus name”.
Also congratulating the new Bishop, the Adaja of Ondo kingdom, High Chief S.A. Ayodeji on behalf of the Osemawe in Council said the kingdom is happy for having an indigene as a bishop saying it is truly earned and rightly deserved.
“The HRM, Oba Dr. Victor Kiladejo, CFR, Jilo 111, Osemawe and paramount ruler of Ondo kingdom, high chiefs, chiefs and the entire sons and daughters of Ondo both home and in the diaspora heartily congratulate you on your elevation as the Lord Bishop of Ondo Diocese of the Anglican Communion.
“We thank God for your life, most sincerely for making Ondo proud by your enviable elevation and thus bringing back to Ondo kingdom again the position of a bishop which we are sure you truly and rightly deserve. We are confident that you will keep worthy of your call.
“We urge you to take the elevation as a call for greater work in His vineyard. We pray that God will continue to abide with you and perfect His work in you”.
Earlier, Bishop Oni promised to be a faithful shepherd and servant. “I promise to firmly observe the statutes and customs of the church and as much as it lies in me, take care that they are observed by others and that so far as it may rightly be done. I will increase the welfare and honour of the church.
“I solemnly promise that I will observe and to the utmost of my power fulfill the responsibilities and obligations of this office, stewing in all things to be a faithful shepherd to the flock of Christ”.