The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) Bonotem Diocese has commenced its 28th annual convention. The Diocese also announced plans to celebrate the centenary of the Gospel's arrival in Chamba land.
The Rt Rev. Solomon Nuhu revealed that Bonotem Diocese will celebrate the centenary of the Gospel's arrival in Chamba land, explaining that the Gospel was first introduced to Gurum in 1929 by Scottish missionary, Mr Fleming. He then listed the committee members for the 2029 celebrations, including: Professor Emmanuel Camble (Chairman), Professor Joyce Moses, Professor Nuhu Diraso, Dr Na'omi Gisilambe, Rev. Pius Ayuba, Rev. Michael Abejo, Rev. Nuhu Elihu, Mr Polycarp Kaigama, Mr Jared Satburi, Dr Ibrahim Bitrus, and Mr Parish Ishaku (Secretary).
Declaring the convention open at the Centre of Grace in Ganye, with the theme "And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it... Is anything too hard for God?" (Luke 19:41 and Jeremiah 32:27), Bishop Nuhu stated that the purpose of the priesthood is to save individuals from their sins. He urged pastors to accept all responsibilities for the propagation of the Gospel, as assigned by the Church, without complaint, and called upon the congregation to support their pastors in fulfilling these duties.
He expressed gratitude to Bonotem Diocese for their evangelism work in Gambe, Pola District. He lamented the lack of schools and essential social amenities in the mountainous region, and called upon the Church to support the community.
He also thanked Symbol of Hope for their work in educating people about the dangers of human trafficking, kidnapping, and promoting youth and women's empowerment, initiatives from which the Diocese has benefited.
The Rt Rev. Solomon Nuhu encouraged all Church members to explore agriculture and engage in farming to diversify the Church's income streams.
He announced that the convention would also mark his 30th year as an ordained pastor. He explained that the celebration, alongside his ordination peers, was to thank God for guiding them throughout their years of priesthood, and that all funds raised would go towards the completion of the Diocesan Bishop's residence.
Addressing the topic "Gay and Lesbianism: Life in Sodom and Gomorrah", the County Director of Sy.bol of Hope, Dean Rev. Emmanuel Gabriel, a sub-speaker at the convention, asserted that homosexuality is not part of African culture. He emphasised that in some African countries, same-sex practices are a serious taboo, leading to banishment from the community. He attributed the introduction of homosexuality to many communities to expatriates who consider it a normal lifestyle.
Rev. Gabriel condemned lesbianism and homosexuality as sins and a calamity for a nation, and criticised human rights activists who support them.
He stated that the LCCN Bonotem Diocese maintains a stance of opposition to homosexuality, deeming it a condemnable act within the Church.
He urged parents and guardians to be vigilant about the behaviour of their children and wards, suggesting that some learn about homosexuality at school, and that many engage in these acts due to promises of wealth or political office.
Earlier, Bishop Solomon Nuhu commissioned a Quarter Guard stand, constructed by members of the Boys' Brigade Nigeria, LCCN Fellowship, at the Diocese Convention Ground in Ganye.
Activities lined up for the convention include teachings, a music concert, Bible study, praise and worship, drama, fund-raising, among others.
The convention is expected to end on Sunday with a church service of Holy Communion at the Centre of Grace.