Orthodox Anglican enthrones first bishop

Sekondi, April. 6, GNA- The Vigar General of the Orthodox Anglican Church, Very Reverend Doctor Jacob A.Welbourne was on Sunday consecrated and enthroned as the first Bishop of the church in Ghana at a colourful ceremony at Sekondi.

The ceremony was performed by The Most Rev. Dr. Scott McLaughlin, metropolitan Archbishop of the Orthodox Anglican Communion and assisted by Rt. Rev. Hezbon O. Njera, Presiding Bishop of Kenya and Rt. Rev. Alphonse Mfika-Kanyinji, Presiding Bishop of the Democratic Republic of Congo, all Bishops of the Orthodox Anglican Church in their respective countries.

Preaching the sermon, Rev. McLaughlin said the bishops must lead exemplary lives, win more souls for Christ and be honest and humble. He said it would be dangerous for any church leader especially a Bishop, to live anyhow, adding, "You are the shepherd of the flock of Christ and you must lead them to safety".

Rev. McLaughlin said Christianity was not about titles, positions in the church or society, but rather a life of humility, respect for the individual and the upholding of godly values. He said no church or leader could succeed without relying on the guidance and providence of God. Rev. McLaughlin urged the congregation to be bold and correct their leaders when they go wrong. "Be sincere to them, assist them to fulfil their mandate and serve as encouragement for them at all times". He stressed that the adoption of any other beliefs, traditions and practices that does not conform to what the bible teaches could lead to the disintegration of the church. Bishop Welbourne in his acceptance address thanked the entire church for the honour done him.

He said the church has the responsibility of proclaiming the gospel, raising up holy men and expanding the church nationwide and all must join to fulfil the mission of Christianity. Bishop Welbourne said the church must as a vision, begin the training of more young persons as priests, and secure permanent church premises that would serve as a multi-purpose ministry. He appealed to Ghanaians to avoid tribal politics, political tensions and compliment each others efforts and build a united nation after election 2008. Bishop Welbourne said the church must play its reconciliatory functions and promote peaceful co-existence among the various tribes and groups before, during and after the pending elections. The Orthodox Anglican Communion established in 1967, is a global fellowship of Anglican Churches in the United States of America, which uphold traditional liturgy and conservative Christian theology. It has branches in Europe, Africa, Asia, North and South America.