By  Chris Chimezie
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Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu ,  has commended the 2018 Pilgrims to Jerusalem for being worthy ambassadors of the state in the Holy land.

The Governor gave the commendation at a welcome and thanksgiving service for the 2018 Christian Pilgrims to Jerusalem held at the Chapel of His Grace, Government House in Akure, yesterday.

He thanked them for protecting the good name of the State by conducting themselves in a godly manner while praying for the state and their respective families.

Stressing the importance of thanksgiving, Akeredolu stated that when we come to God in appreciation of His kindness unto us, He recompenses.

While saying that their experience in the Holyland would enable them serve God more, he enjoined others to endeavour to repent and serve the living God for the salvation of their souls.

“Christ came to this world and died for our sins and I believe we should all accept Him as our personal Lord and saviour and have eternal life”, he said.

In his sermon titled ‘Giving thanks to God’, Chairman of Ondo State Christian Welfare Board, Very Rev’d Rapheal Agboola enjoined all to imbibe the spirit of thanksgiving over God’s unmerited favour in  their  lives.

He said the service becomes imperative for them, as it is the only means by which they can thank God for the journey mercies, their safety of their while in the Holy land and  for uniting them with their respective family members in peace.

Rev’d Agboola however admonished everyone to repent from their sins and submit their lives to God in totality so as to reign with Him in the end.

Intercessory prayers were offered for the development of the State, success of the Akeredolu-led administration and for the peaceful conduct of the 2019 general elections scheduled to start next month in the country.

Highlight of the service included the presentation of Certificate to Jerusalem Pilgrims by Governor Akeredolu, presentation of gift by the Pilgrims to the Governor as well as the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale and rendition of thanksgiving  songs.