…then gov. Akpabio instrumental to world heavyweight boxing title of Samuel Peter – Rev. Ibanga
Nelson Utip
As The Everlasting Christ Gospel Mission International, ECGMI, continues with the celebration of it’s 30 years anniversary, the Prelate of the church, Most Rev Friday Ibanga, KSMT, PJHR Diplomat, in his sermon on the virtues of Thanksgiving, posited that the then governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio was instrumental to the World Boxing Heavyweight title won by an Akwa Ibom son , Samuel Peter some years ago.
The clergyman said that the presence of Akpabio and his words of encouragement in his native language gave Peters the strength to defeat his opponent. He used the occasion to celebrate The Senate President as a patriotic leader who’s tenure as governor brought prosperity to ordinary indigenes of the state. He presence at the ringside to support Samuel Peters speaks volumes.
Before he mounted the pulpit, the Leader was ushered in by the action of a prophecy by one Apostle Dr. Peter Samuel an Associate of the Mission, who replicated the triumphant entry of our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem on the back of an ass, he spread new wrappers with crispy naira notes for the clergyman to ride on. Most Rev Ibanga then consecrated him and some others, led by the spirit.
In his powerful sermon, the Leader enumerated the powers and virtues of Thanksgiving and gratitude, he said that Thanksgiving in a native language opens chambers of blessing. He said that entering God’s presence with Thanksgiving and praises provides spiritual powers of endurance. He noted that Thanksgiving should come with sacrifice as sowing comes before reaping.
The clergyman said that Thanksgiving is an expression of gratitude to God for his goodness, he explained the mystery of pouring libation with water from native sources as David requested for water from Jerusalem to quench his thirst in the battle field. His soldiers had to take the risk of breaking through enemy lines to fetch the water. This is symbolic as David defeated his enemies thereafter.
Most Rev Ibanga elucidated the powers of music as a spiritual tool into a new chapter in life, he said that after 30 years, ECGMI is moving into a new dimension and the anniversary celebration, a prove of gratitude, gratefulness and open doors of unprecedented favour from God. He said the Thanksgiving and celebration should not be only on milestones and achievements but even when things are tough. He admonished his flock to sponsor crusades and other spiritual programmes for positive results.
He gave the example of Abraham who built alters wherever he went and ended up the father of many nations.
The clergyman pronounced multi-dimensional blessings on the congregation, he used the money rolled in the wrappers he triumphantly walked on as a point of contact to usher in abundant blessings on his flock.
Earlier, there were renditions form various choir groups and the clergyman presented special gifts to representatives from Kogi, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Abia, Akwa Ibom among others.
The Everlasting Christ Gospel Mission International, ECGMI, was established in 1996 with it’s International headquarters at Mbiabong Ikot Udo Uso in Uyo metropolis. The Mission has declared a 30 day celebration activities to mark the milestone.
