Lagos Anglican diocese marks 20 years, unveils history book

The Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Anglican Communion, marked its 20th anniversary with a celebratory event that included a thanksgiving service and the public presentation of a new history book, "The Church Is Marching On." The occasion, held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos, brought together a diverse assembly of clergy, traditional and community leaders, legal professionals, and journalists, all members of the diocese.

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The Church Is Marching On.

Presiding over the event was the Bishop of Lagos Mainland Diocese, the Rt Revd Akinpelu Johnson. Among the distinguished attendees were Justice Ayokunle, Pa Kayode Shonaike (Babaluyi Akinwande), Justice Olayinka Faji, Chief J.P. Oke, and Mrs Abosede Faji. The diocese also welcomed representatives from other dioceses, including Dr Mrs Lydia Odedeji from the Diocese of Lagos West, and former Bishop of Lagos Mainland Diocese, the Most Revd Dr Adebayo Dada Akinde.

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One of the major strengths of the book was its treatment of the organisational structure of the Anglican Church and the role of tradition and training in sustaining the church’s identity.

Veteran journalist and former Editorial Chairman of The Guardian, Dr Reuben Abati, reviewed the newly launched book. He described "The Church Is Marching On" as a significant contribution to understanding the history, structure, and development of the Anglican Church. Abati specifically praised the book's detailed examination of the church's organizational framework, the role of tradition and training in maintaining its identity, and how various departments foster a sense of purpose.

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Another highlight of this work is also how the Anglican Church is organised through various departments to create a community that works with a sense of purpose, as well as the importance of traditions and training to sustain identity and prepare for the future.

Abati further noted that the book delves into the contributions of women, the engagement of young people, and the importance of the Sunday school in nurturing children. He highlighted that the publication underscores the Anglican system's reliance on established laws and structures, not just individual leadership. The review also pointed to Chapter 13, which addresses the future of the diocese and the Christian faith, posing important questions for contemplation.

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Part three, on people and ministry, focuses on the contributions of women, the place of the youth in the new church, and the Directorate of Sunday School for the nurturing and instruction of children.