By Stanley Okehie
The Administrator of Ogbaku Missionary Archdeaconry, Ogbaku, Rev. Canon Sam Duru has held a thanksgiving celebration for his elevation to Canon by His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Chukwuma Opara Ph.D, JP – Lord Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Owerri.
The thanksgiving ceremony which began with a Holy Mass, according to the new Canon, was also to thank God for successfully obtaining a doctoral degree in Philosophy of Education.
Canon Duru equally seized the occasion to unveil his 10th published book, “Blood of the Martyrs”.
Speaking at the occasion, which held at Emmanuel Anglican Church, Ogbaku, last week, Canon Duru thanked God for His faithfulness and promised to use his new position to heal the wounded, pray and encourage children of God when they are downcast.
He advised the faithful to serve God in goodness of life, as according to him, when this is done, “God’s glory will manifest in our lives.”
Canon Duru appreciated his guests that graced the occasion and promised not to take their support of love and encouragement for granted.
Ven. James Onyekwelibe PhD, one of the officiating ministers at the event, said the position was well merited.
He encouraged the new Canon to know that the Lord who called him will also equip him to bless the people of God and urged him to put more effort in service.
Rev Samuel Ononogbo, Secretary of the Committee of Friends for the occasion, described Canon Duru as a good man, great motivator and spiritual leader who distinguishes himself as a father wherever he finds himself.
He wished him more grace as he grows in the Ministry and prayed God to give him and the family the desires of their heart.
Engr. Timothy Duru, younger brother of the celebrant encouraged the new Canon to remain strong in service to God and prayed that he gets to the peak of his life and career.
The well-attended occasion, was chaired by Governor Hope Uzodimma’s Special Adviser on Orientation and former Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Imo Council, Dr. Fidel Onyeneke, who in his brief remarks, testified of Canon Duru’s high intellectualism and prayed for more heights.
The book, Blood of the Martyrs, which has six chapters and 130 pages, was reviewed by Prof Chima Iwuchukwu.