Jerusalem showing the ‘Wailing wall’
By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Anambra State Government has charged the 35 Christians pilgrims from the state that would be departing for Israel next week Wednesday to be good ambassadors and shun absconding during the journey.
The State Chairman Christian Pilgrim Welfare Board, Professor Steve Ibenta gave the charge during a one-day workshop organized for the pilgrims at the Government House Awka by the Board.
The workshop was aimed at enlightening and educating the pilgrims on the rules and regulations guiding the journey, ranging from personal comportment to purpose of the pilgrimage.
Professor Ibenta who described pilgrimage as critical for moral and spiritual transformation, encouraged the pilgrims to use the period to seek the face of God in their lives and in the state.
He also enjoined them to ask for God’s mercy on Nigeria as the country is recently faced with numerous challenges that need divine intervention.
The Chairman disclosed that only thirty-five persons out of the about three hundred initial applicants for the trip scaled through after series of state and national screenings.
Earlier in a paper presentation on code of conduct and ethical behaviour during pilgrimage, a resource person, Lady Patience Anago warned the Pilgrims against any act that can drag the reputation of the state and the nation to the mud.
On the health of the Pilgrims, a Medical Practitioner, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Ezeonyejiaku, advised those on medication among them to observe their medications and to avoid stress and other things that could serve as threat to their health.
The Secretary of the Board, Reverend Father Benedict Obiesi, and another Official of the Board, Mr. Jerry Obodo called on government at all levels to encourage pilgrimage by sponsoring the trip to enable more people participate.
Some of the Pilgrims, including Reverend Father Raphael Agbanu, and Dr. Regina Okafor while expressing happiness for being among the selected few, said they decided to embark on the trip to enrich their spiritual lives and knowledge about Jesus Christ the saviour.
