Children of Promise: Methodist Bishop Celebrates Future Leaders on Children’s Day

By The Rev. Onyemaechi Charles 

May 27, 2025 | Owerri

As the world commemorates International Children’s Day 2025, the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Owerri, joins millions across the globe in celebrating the beauty, potential, and divine promise in every child.

In a moving message, His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Geoffrey U. Kanu JP, the Diocesan Bishop, conveyed heartfelt greetings to all Nigerian children, with a special emphasis on Methodist children, describing them as “Adorable children and true representatives of the Church’s future and the hope of our beloved country, Nigeria.”

Faith in Their Future: “He Will Rise Again”

Speaking in alignment with this year’s theme, “He Will Rise Again” – John 11:23b, Bishop Kanu urged the Church to see children not only as the future but as “living witnesses of resurrection power.”

“Just like Lazarus rose by the command of Jesus, our children shall rise in strength, wisdom, and greatness,” he declared. “Their dreams will not die. Their light will not dim. Their destinies are preserved in Christ.”

Biblical Foundations for Nurturing Children

Highlighting scriptures such as:

• Psalm 127:3 – “Children are a heritage from the Lord…”
• Matthew 19:14 – “Let the little children come to Me…”
• Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you…”

His Lordship reminded parents and leaders of the divine mandate to raise children in the knowledge of Christ, nurturing their spiritual, academic, and emotional well-being.

Voices from the Field: Educators & Leaders Speak with the Methodistmedia 

The Rev. Sampson Nduka Agbo JP, Principal of Methodist High School, Ikenegbu, stated:

“Every child in our care is a seed of purpose. At Methodist High, we are committed to cultivating these seeds with discipline, excellence, and faith.”

Mrs. Peace Nnenna Nnochiri, Headteacher of Wesley Model Academy, Ikenegbu, shared:

“We celebrate not just the brilliance of our pupils but their resilience and God-given potential. Their future is as bright as the promises of God.”

The Very Rev. Iheoma Chikezie PhD, Diocesan Coordinator of the Children Department, said:

“Today is a reminder that our children carry the DNA of greatness. We must nurture them with intentionality, faith, and unwavering love.”

Miss Nse Abasi Okpo, Headteacher of Susana Wesley Nursery and Primary School, Owerri, expressed:

“Our classrooms are filled with future scientists, leaders, and spiritual giants. Children’s Day renews our vow to raise them in godliness and wisdom.”

Sister Stella Ugboaja , a Sunday School leader, in St John's Methodist Church, Mbonu Ojike Street, Ikenegbu, while peaking with MethodistMedia, emphasized:

“This is more than a celebration. It’s a declaration. Our children will rise above failure, poverty, sin, and stagnation. They are light-bearers in a dark world.”

A Call to Action

Bishop Kanu also used the occasion to call on government leaders, schools, and institutions to prioritize policies that ensure child protection, access to quality education, and moral development.

“Every child deserves the chance to grow, thrive, and fulfill purpose. As a Church, we will continue to stand in the gap through mentorship, discipleship, and advocacy.”

A Prophetic Blessing for Every Child

Closing his message, His Lordship released a blessing for all children:

“You are not forgotten. You are a covenant child, adorable Children,  designed by God for glory. You will rise. You will shine. You will lead. Happy Children’s Day — from the heart of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Owerri.”

Diocesan Media Officer, Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of  Owerri 

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