The Archdeacon of St. John’s Anglican Church, Okwe, Asaba, Venerable Celestine Aniamaka, has assured Christians that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus, urging believers to remain steadfast despite life’s trials and challenges.
Venerable Aniamaka gave the charge on Thursday, during the Service of Songs held in honour of Mr. Matthew Ochei, late Delta State Correspondent of Punch Newspapers, at St. John’s Anglican Church, Okwe.
Preaching from Romans 8:35–39, the cleric emphasized the powerful assurance of God’s unfailing love, declaring that neither trouble, persecution, sickness, famine, danger nor even death can separate believers from Christ.
“No matter the hardship we face in life, God’s love remains constant and unshaken,” he said, stressing that challenges are part of the Christian journey but do not define the end of the believer.
Drawing lessons from the life of Apostle Paul, Venerable Aniamaka noted that although Paul performed miracles and endured intense persecution, he remained unwavering in faith.
According to him, Paul understood that suffering is part of life in a fallen world, but ultimate victory is guaranteed through Christ.
He encouraged the congregation not to be discouraged by pain, shame, frustration, poverty, sickness or opposition, reminding them that God is fully aware of every struggle His children face.
“Even when life feels like a house of thorns, God prepares grace to sustain His people through it,” he stated.
The Archdeacon also spoke strongly on the hope of eternal life, explaining that physical death is not the end for believers but the beginning of eternal fellowship with God.
He urged Christians to remain faithful and fearless, stressing that no condition whether lack, weakness, or social status can remove anyone from the love of God.
He concluded his sermon with words of encouragement: “Do not fear. Do not lose hope. Stay faithful. Trust that God will provide and protect. Eternal victory belongs to those who stand with Christ.”
The solemn service was attended by several dignitaries and members of the media community, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Delta State, Sir Festus Ahon; the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Media, Dr. Nelson Egware; and the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, among others.
The service featured hymns, prayers and tributes in honour of Mr. Ochei, who was widely respected for his professionalism and dedication to journalism until his passing.
