By Nneka Ejeckam
The Diocese on the Niger (Anglican Communion) on July 19, celebrated the 2026 Girls’ Guild Sunday and thanksgiving across its churches, with a call on young girls to embrace godly values and purposeful living.
In a goodwill message, the Bishop on the Niger and Chief Shepherd, Rt. Rev. Owen Chiedozie Nwokolo, thanked God for the Girls’ Guild ministry and its contributions to the spiritual and moral development of young girls in the diocese.
Quoting Proverbs 9:10, he said the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, stressing that true wisdom comes from reverence for God and obedience to His Word.
Nwokolo urged the girls to shun negative social media influences, peer pressure, ungodly lifestyles and false values, while encouraging them to remain prayerful, obey God’s Word and allow biblical truth to guide their decisions.
He advised them to guard their hearts, minds and bodies, choose friends who strengthen their faith, and uphold the virtues of purity, integrity, humility and diligence.
The bishop reminded the girls that their worth is not determined by social trends, physical appearance or public opinion, but by their identity as people created in the image of God.
He further encouraged them to remain steadfast in their Christian faith, uphold their Anglican heritage and make meaningful contributions to society by reflecting Christ-like values.
The celebration followed a week-long programme held at the parish, archdeaconry and diocesan levels, featuring Bible study, seminars, evangelism, workshops and skills acquisition activities.
The programme concluded on Saturday with a sports and competition day at All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha. Activities included races, a march-past and an exhibition of handmade beaded slippers.
Among those in attendance were the Bishop’s wife, Dr. Mrs. Elsie Nwokolo; the Girls’ Guild Chaplain, Rev. Sunday Oforji; the Sub-Dean’s wife; the Archdeaconry Coordinator, Mrs. Obioma Udeh; clergy wives and other guests.
Nneka Ejeckam is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
