The Salvation Army, an evangelical organization also known for her social works, has inaugurated the new Rivers/Bayelsa Division, dedicated a magnificent worship centre, as well as installed new divisional commanders for Rivers/Bayelsa Division.
These events took place recently in Port Harcourt city, Rivers State with a pre-dedication fund raising dinner at the Hotel Presidential which featured recognitions, the journey of the Army in Rivers State, motivational and goodwill messages, music repertoire and dinner, attended by distinguished personalities from all walks of life among whom were the Mayor of Port Harcourt City, Hon. Chimbiko Akarolo, ably represented by Hon. Boms Theophilus, Sen. John Mbata represented by Hon. Godknows Powell and Engr. Obinna Onyebuchi and the Salvation Army Corps, divisional and territorial representatives.
Following the pre-dedication event was a “festival of praise” where many invited choirs, classical dance group, brass band from the salvation army ltam, Akwa Ibom West Division corps, divisional timbre lists brigade, the young people singing company and songsters brigade featured in a classical style to the glory of the Lord.
The grand finale of the event saw the dedication, inauguration and installation proper by the territorial commander, Nigeria Territory, Commissioner, Mfon Jactor Akpan on Sunday 25th March, 2012 at the Rivers/Bayelsa Divisional Headquarters, 103 Aggrey Road, Port Harcourt.
In his message which was taken from 2nd Chronicles 7:11-18, Commissioner Akpan reiterated that the temple of God should be open to all those who are heart broken, bereaved, wounded in spirit body and soul, it should be a place where the less privileged in society will come in and be given a sense of belonging.
The clergy man further admonished that God needs humble minds and hearts, people with a pure heart and clean hands that will pray and bring down God’s presence and power and blessings on God’s people and those who do not believe.
Majors Joseph and Ngozi Mbagwu, the newly installed divisional commanders, thanked God for His grace and mercy and wisdom to pilot the affairs of the division and beyond, thanking comrades and friends within and outside the Salvation Army for their support and contributions towards the huge success.
In their goodwill messages, Hon. Boms Theophilus advised, “The Salvation Army and all Christian churches should always put the government into prayers,” while Hon. Godknows Powell encouraged Salvationist, “do not relent in the things of God. Hold fast what you believe and propagate it”.
Further appreciating the efforts of leaders, past and present Elder statesman, Chief E. A. Allison commended all Salvationists and friends and urged members to continue the good work of moving the Army forward, as the army is a place to be.
The dignitaries who attended the meeting were Territorial Envoy, Dr. Levi Monanu, the Baptist Conference Secretary for Rivers State, and a host of others while the highlights of the occasion were presentation of awards, enrolment of senior and junior soldiers.
Dr. (Mrs.) Donald Elizabeth Obot, Chairperson for the inauguration Planning Committee (IPC) thanked all and sundry for fully participating and giving to God for the progress of His work.
By Angela Inyena Anietie
