Ven. Dr. Abiodun Bolaji Charges New Clergy: “You Are Sent Out to Fulfil the Spirit of Love and Truth”
The Venerable Dr. Abiodun Bolaji has issued a powerful spiritual charge to newly ordained deacons, priests, and installed canons, urging them to embrace their calling as ambassadors of Christ with a deep commitment to holiness, service, and love.
Speaking at the *Trinity Ordination and Installation of Canons* of the *Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Ibadan,* held on *Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. James the Great, Oke-Bola, Ibadan,* Ven. Dr. Bolaji delivered a sermon titled “Sent Out by Christ to Fulfil the Spirit of Love and Truth” with the anchor text from *John 20:21:*
> “As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”
He emphasized that those commissioned into sacred office are representatives of Christ, with core responsibilities to proclaim the Gospel, offer spiritual guidance, and build the body of Christ in unity. Highlighting *1 Peter 1:15–16,* he reminded the clergy that *holiness must be their standard:*
> “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
Referencing *Mark 10:42–45,* he challenged church leaders to model Christ’s example of servant leadership:
> “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…”
He further charged them to be *burden bearers,* drawing from *Galatians 6:2:*
> “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
As the Diocese of Ibadan prepares to mark its *centenary in 2052,* Ven. Dr. Bolaji called on all clergy to reflect on the legacy they will leave. Citing the timeless examples of *David Hinderer,* remembered for his early missionary work in Nigeria, and *Mary Slessor,* honored for her life-saving intervention against twin killings — the last of the twins she rescued recently passed away at age 115 — he asked poignantly, “What will you be remembered for?”
In addition to his spiritual message, Ven. Dr. Bolaji voiced concern over Nigeria’s persistent insecurity, criticizing the government’s failure to adequately protect lives and property. He urged the Church to remain steadfast in prayer and action.
The highlight of the service was the *preference of Revd Bidemi Bolarinwa (popularly known as “ENGINE”) as Statutory Canon* by the *Lord Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, The Most Revd Dr. J. O. Akinfenwa.
The ordination and installation service was filled with spiritual fervor, worship, and renewed dedication to the mission of Christ.