The Bishop of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), Right Reverend Nelson Malau, has charged pastors of the church to remain true vanguards of Jesus Christ by reflecting godly virtues in their conduct, staying spiritually disciplined, and remaining dedicated to the work of God.
The bishop made this call on Monday during his welcome address at the two-day Pre-Convention Programme held at the LCCN Gweda Mallam in Numan. The programme was organized ahead of the LCCN National Convention scheduled to hold from Wednesday to Sunday this week.
Addressing over one hundred pastors drawn from across the church, Bishop Malau urged the clergy to live exemplary lives that reflect the teachings of Christ, stressing the importance of prayer, integrity, and unity as they prepare for the national gathering.
He also advised pastors to make judicious use of social media platforms for the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, warning against the misuse of such platforms in ways that could damage the integrity and unity of the body of Christ.
Reading from the Holy Bible, the book of Ephesians chapter four, verses three to six, the bishop encouraged the clergy to remain open to the congregation during the convention and to allow themselves to be used by God throughout the gathering.
Bishop Malau further called on the church to pray for Nigeria as the nation prepares for general elections next year, asking God to raise righteous leaders who will guide the country across various elective offices. He also appealed to all members of the LCCN to remain prayerful for the success of the forthcoming National Convention of the church.
The LCCN Pre-Convention Programme is a traditional annual event, usually held two to three days before the opening ceremony of the church’s major spiritual activities. This year’s programme was attended by over one hundred pastors, including members of the church hierarchy such as the Bishop, Vice Bishop, Deans, Administrative Secretary, Directors of various departments, and other clergy.