At Synod, Odutemu, others enjoin Christians to reproduce God’s character

The Anglican Bishop of Ughelli Diocese and Archbishop of the Province of Bendel, Most Rev. (Dr) Cyril Odutemu has charged Christians who are on earthly pilgrimage to let God and men perceive their lives as fragrance. The Bishop spoke at the 3rd Session of the 8th Synod of the Diocese of Ughelli, themed: “We are Christ Fragrance unto God: A Critical Examination of Christian Life,” held at Bishop Agori Iwe Memorial Anglican Church Ovwodawanre (BAMACO), Ughelli from April 24 to 28, 2021.

Odutemu explained that fragrance is perceived in different aspects of the Christian’s life and spirituality, which include righteousness, humility, faith, evangelism, and charitable deeds. He, however, regretted that the life of some Christians contradict the gospel and so, could be anything but pleasant and acceptable to God and man.

Earlier in his special Sunday service for the Synod, Bishop of the Niger-West Diocese, Rt. Rev. Johnson Ekwe, described fragrance as a pleasing, sweet smelling and attracting aroma, which overwhelms bad odour. He added that Christian fragrance is in such Christian character as humility and sacrificial love. He quoted Thomas Jefferson who said that Christianity without character is a fraud. The Synod Bible Study was led by Bishop of Idoani, Rt Rev. Adegoke Agara and was attended by over 30 Bishops and Archbishops from all parts of the country, including Delta State Governor and Deputy Senate President.