The Conference President and Spiritual Leader of the Anioma Delta Baptist Conference, the Rev. Dr. Dike Utih, has charged newly ordained Deacons of the Pilgrim Baptist Association to uphold unity, integrity, and sincere service as they assume their sacred responsibilities in the church.
Rev. Utih gave the charge on Saturday, December 6, 2025, during the Ordination Service of 12 new Deacons of the Association held at the Auditorium of the Pilgrim Baptist Church, Issele-Uku.
The solemn but joyous event was moderated by the Moderator and Spiritual Leader of the Pilgrim Baptist Association, Rev. Gabriel Okpala, and attended by top clerics, including the Chairman of the Anioma Delta Baptist Conference, Rev. Monday Opone, the immediate past Moderator of the Pilgrim Baptist Association, Rev. Moses Ekene Okolie, a former Moderator of the Association, Rev. E. C. Chibuogwu, and the Chairman of Anioma Delta Baptist Conference Deacons Fellowship, Deacon Reuben Napoleon amongst others.
Delivering his message, Rev. Utih stressed that “the devil fears a united church,” noting that unity fortifies the church against negative influences and distractions. He urged the ordained Deacons to prioritize harmony and cooperation, describing unity as a key tool for fulfilling the church’s mission.
Drawing from Titus 1:4–9, the Conference President outlined the essential qualities expected of church leaders, emphasizing blameless character, self-control, hospitality, and a life of unquestionable integrity.
He cautioned the new Deacons against anger, greed, strife, hypocrisy, and any form of personal manipulation, stating that such attitudes undermine the church and contradict the calling of leadership.
Rev. Utih also underscored the importance of practical service and community care, urging the newly ordained to extend sincere support to those in need both within the church and across the wider community.
According to him, leaders must be diligent in completing their responsibilities, train trustworthy assistants, and avoid giving sensitive duties to unreliable persons.
The renowned Christian leader, further encouraged the congregation to widen their circle of love, care, and hospitality, welcoming and supporting even those outside their immediate environment.
Authentic Christian living, he said, should be demonstrated in love, humility, and commitment to God’s purpose.
In his concluding prayers, the Conference President asked God to strengthen both leaders and members to rise to the demands of service and continue to make a positive impact in the church and the society at large.
The ceremony ended with blessings and words of encouragement as the 12 newly ordained Deacons were formally admitted into their responsibilities in the Pilgrim Baptist Association.
Highpoint at the service was laying on of hands and prayer of consecration and dedication.
