ABUJA- The Vice-President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, on Wednesday urged the christian community to articulate innovative programmes that would address the societal ills bedeviling the country.
Jonathan gave the advise at the Ninth General Synod of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) in Abuja .
The vice president noted with concern the disturbing rise in cultism and violent crimes in spite of the rapid increase in places of worship across the country.
“I believe the time has come when the Christian Church must take on the challenges posed by social degeneracy,” he said.
Jonathan called on the leadership of the Anglican Church and other religious
organisations to partner with the Federal Government to address the threat of environmental disharmony, social inequality and underdevelopment.
According to him, the rise in illiteracy, environmental degradation and underdevelopment at this time should worry the Church.
He said: “Respect for peace and social justice should continue to engage the Church in its daily activities.
Jonathan noted with delight that the Anglican Communion was ranked among the earliest promoters of education and peace.
He said the government would partner with all stakeholders so as to bring about a new dawn in the country.
Jonathan urged Nigerians to pray for the continuous success of President Umaru Yar’Adua’s administration.
He commended the leadership of the Church for its commitment to improving the moral, spiritual and economic foundation of the Church and its members.
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Peter Akinola, condemned the societal ills threatening the existence of the country.
Reports say that 140 Bishops, 340 Clergymen and 300 Laymen are attending the four-day Synod.
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