As the world celebrates Easter period, the United Missionary Churches of Africa (UMCA), Kwara State chapter, has called on Nigerian church leaders to promote peace and equity in all dealings.
Moses Tswanya Rev’d, the UMCA president who gave the charge in a speech on his Easter message, ‘The Resurrection of Jesus Christ,’ delivered on Monday at a press conference to mark the Easter period, equally advised, “We should redirect the focus of the youths from materialism to piety and pay special attention to core family values which are now lacking in our society.”
He said all hands must be on deck to really work on youths in order to minimise social vices in the society, saying, “We need prayer because it is only weapon that can be used to solve problems of Boko Haram insurgency, kidnap, incessant killings, insecurity, among other criminal acts.
“We should cry to God. For us to get our redemption, we must repent of our sins and stop sinning to receive salvation. Our constant prayer should be, Lord give me the heart of a solder who doesn’t know night and day to say ” Yes Sir” to every command of His commander.”
He identified unemployment and negligence as major factors responsible for youths festiveness and other abnormalities, affecting mostly the masses, saying, “Problems are bedevilling us in this country as a result of negligence to our duties. Lack of job for youths makes them be idols and the devil gives them work.
“They need special attention from all of us leaders and elders i.e.; Religious leaders, both Pastors and Imams should improve on preaching peace to the youths, parents should nurture their wards with moral conducts likewise other stalk holders. If our youths are well groomed, definitely we will have a peaceful and productive society.”
He informed that UMCA had been having series of meetings, conferences on youths and women to advise them on right path towards living a normal life.
The UMCA president therefore urged government at all levels to support the youths morally and financially for Nigeria to have a better future.
Speaking on the importance of Lent and Easter celebration, Olugbenga Adebiri stated the Lent was a season of reflection and preparation before the celebrations of Easter. He added that by observing the 40 days of Lent, Christians replicate Jesus Christ’ sacrifice.
