The First Session of the Twelfth Synod of the Diocese of Mbaise progressed into its second day on Friday, May 29, 2026, with spiritually enriching and intellectually engaging activities aimed at deepening both faith and societal awareness among Synod delegates.
Proceedings for the day commenced with a Holy Communion Service celebrated by the Rev. Canon Darlington Anyanwu, assisted by other brother priests of the Diocese.
The highlight of the morning session was the first Bible Study on the Synod theme: “The Loudest Hallelujah Without the Fear of God,” drawn from Amos 5:23–24. The session was facilitated by the Guest Bishop, Synod Preacher, and Bible Study Facilitator, His Lordship, *The Rt. Rev. Ifeanyichukwu Godfrey Ekpenisi*, Bishop of Ika Anglican Diocese.
Speaking on the Study One topic, *“When Worship Becomes Noise to God: The Missing Ingredient — The Fear of God,”* Bishop Ekpenisi delivered an insightful and thought-provoking exposition on the essence of godly worship and reverential living. The teaching session was widely described as enlightening, expository, participatory, impactful, and spiritually engaging, as Synod delegates actively interacted with the facilitator throughout the study.
At the close of the session, the host Bishop, *His Lordship, The Rt. Rev. Chamberlain Chinedum Ogunedo, JP, MSc*, expressed profound appreciation to the Guest Bishop for what he described as a deep, sound, and mind-enlightening exposition of the Synod theme. He commended the preacher for his firm delivery, theological depth, and practical application of scriptural truths.
The atmosphere among Synod delegates reflected heightened anticipation for the continuation of the Bible Study session scheduled for the following day, as the Synod thereafter proceeded into plenary.
The Synod is expected to continue on Saturday, May 30, 2026, with notable activities including the presentation of the Bishop’s Address, the launching for the proposed ₦500 Million Diocese of Mbaise School of Nursing Sciences Project, Archdeaconries’ Thanksgiving, and the community reception.
The day ended with the cutting of the synod cake by Bishop Ogunedo assisted by Mama Mbaise, Nneoha Oluchi Uloma Ogunedo, the diocesan legal officers led by the Chancellor, Bar. Ernest Nwagwu and the Traditional Prime Minister of the host Community Engr. Sir Nnamdi Oparaji.