Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel of The United Methodist Church (UMC) Nigeria, Senegal and Cameroon Episcopal Area marked his birthday with a humanitarian outreach to hospital patients, using the occasion to advocate healthy living and preventive healthcare.

Instead of a lavish celebration, the Bishop spent time with patients receiving treatment, offering words of encouragement and expressing sympathy for their health challenges. He urged them to remain hopeful while assuring them of the Church’s continued concern for the sick and vulnerable.

Addressing patients, caregivers and medical personnel, Bishop Emmanuel commended healthcare professionals for their commitment to saving lives despite the enormous challenges facing the health sector. He described their dedication as a vital service to humanity and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their calling.

The cleric also called on Nigerians to make routine medical check-ups a regular part of their lives, stressing that early diagnosis remains one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage diseases. According to him, adopting healthy lifestyles and seeking timely medical attention can significantly improve health outcomes.

The outreach ended with an atmosphere of thanksgiving and celebration as beneficiaries shared inspiring testimonies. Members of The United Methodist Church led songs of praise and worship, while prayers were offered for the patients, healthcare workers and the continued well-being of the Bishop.

Speaking on the significance of the occasion, Bishop Emmanuel said the Church fulfils its mission when it serves as the hands and feet of Christ by bringing hope to the hurting, restoring dignity to the forgotten and demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ through practical acts of compassion.

The United Methodist Church Nigeria, Senegal and Cameroon Episcopal Area encouraged the public to follow its Facebook page for more updates on its humanitarian activities, compassionate leadership and faith-based community outreach.