Anglican Church ban politicians and government officials from using its pulpits

 

The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has issued guidelines restricting politicians and government officials from using their platforms for promoting partisan views or political propaganda.

The church has also ordered that politicians and government officials should not be permitted to use the Church’s lectern when speaking since it has been consecrated for the reading of God’s Word.

In a memo signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, The Most Revd Dr Henry Ndukuba, during the Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu, the Church acknowledged concerns about the increasing use of church services as political platforms, which risk compromising the integrity of Christian worship.

Anglican Communion, reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and avoiding political partisanship.

This notice comes a week after FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, held a thanksgiving service at St James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja for the commission of all his completed projects and used the podium to throw jabs at his political enemies.

Key points outlined in the memo include:

1. The Church remains open to all persons, including politicians and government officials, in both its services and other programmes.
2. In keeping with its calling and inclusive nature, the Church must not engage in or promote partisanship.
3. The Church must diligently avoid speeches, conduct, or events that may incite division or foster political bias within the body of Christ.

 

Henceforth, the following protocols are to be observed:

• There must be a prior discussion with any guest who is expected to address the congregation, in order to offer appropriate guidance.
• Guests must be clearly informed that the Church is not a platform for promoting partisan views or political propaganda.
• Church leaders and officiants must refrain from making statements or behaving in ways that could be construed as politically aligned or sectional.
• No Church official should eulogise or exalt any guest in a manner that might bring the Church into disrepute.
• Where possible, guests should not be permitted to use the Church’s lectern when speaking, as it has been consecrated for the reading of God’s Word.

Source: Elvisanokyenews.net