By Celestine Ihejirika, Jalingo
Ahead of the world annual conference of the United Methodist Church taking place in the United States of America slated for 2024, resident Bishop of the Nigeria Episcopal Area, Johnwesley Yohanna has said his position on same-sex Marriage remains unchanged as he continues to reject it vehemently.
The Bishop who stated this during world press conference to mark the occasion of (100 years) centenary anniversary of the church at Chapel Secretariat Jalingo, said inclusion of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and quires (LGBTO) within United Methodist Church opposes God words in the book of Genesis chapter 2 and therefore will not be part of the group if they go ahead with such doctrine at the end of the world annual conference.
According to him, “it is crucial to recognize the diverse perspectives that exist within our global Family. We navigate these conversations with deep respect for differing interpretations of scripture and understand the complexity of this issue.
“Our commitment to unity amid diversity calls us to engage in respectful dialogue, seeking understanding and common ground. But you should all know my position in this issue remains unshakable.
Speaking on the anniversary starting tomorrow Friday 8th Dec to Sunday 10th Dec, Bishop Yohanna said arrangement has been concluded for the historic event expected to draw people from diverse communities all over the world at the church secretariat in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State and therefore enjoined Christian faithful to grace the occasion.
The Bishop who traced the history of the church that established in a community known as “Bambur” in the present Karim Lamido Local government area of Taraba state in 1923 by then missionaries has sprayed all over Nigeria, just as he used the occasion and appealed to members who boycotted the church in the recent time to come back in the interest of peace, unity and one united family.
Sharing his moment during period under review, Bishop Yohanna who acknowledge the presence of God said he remain grateful for being part of the celebration, pointing out that the event calls for sober reflection as according to him those who started the journey 100 years ago were not privilege to witness the centennial anniversary including pioneer Bishops/ leaders of the church and other departed members.
