In January of this year, the Ekanems, having served at Peter Achimugu College of Theology, Ankpa. Kogi State since 2006, relocated to Uyo. Their transfer brings changes to the roles they play in serving the United Evangelical Church (UEC) in Nigeria. Godwin takes on a new role as Liaison Officer between Mission Africa and UEC. His main assignment is to represent the interests of Mission Africa at Standing Committee (UEC’s highest decision making body), and other committees, boards, councils, etc., of the UEC institutions, such as ADVANCE (a body promoting awareness and providing help to those with HIV/AIDS); Peter Achimugu College of Theology; William Wheatley Theological College; Bassa Bible School; Bassa Clinic; Holley Memorial Hospital, Ochadamu; The UEC College of Nursing, Ochadamu and the Donegore Centre at Ogugu, etc. He has an office based at the UEC Secretariat, (the Church’s Headquarters), hence the move to Uyo.
In particular, he will ensure smooth and effective communication between MA and UEC. He will assist the Church with the renewal of the missionary quota and with invitation letters for people travelling with Mission Africa to Nigeria. One of his hopes is to be able to visit the various UEC Mission fields to encourage the indigenous missionaries. He looks forward to opportunities for further teaching and preaching as well.
Gail’s role is not fully worked out yet, but initially she will take some time to help settle the family into their house. Though they have moved to Uyo, their dwelling is not quite ready, but they hope that by the end of February to move in and finally unpack. During this settling period, she is carving out time to continue her writing ministry. Her latest book, Trees of Life, (a Devotional for Lent) is available from the MA Office, Dave Savage at Lowe Memorial in Belfast and Phyllis Chapman in Wexford. ACTS are also now selling it in Nigeria. She would love to be involved in some teaching amongst the women of UEC and is looking forward to seeing how God will open up those opportunities. In time, she will also seek out opportunities to use her PhD training in a more formal teaching situation.
Angel is loving her new school—who wouldn’t? A playground in the front yard, music and dancing lessons etc. She continues to have lots of energy and chatter! She has adjusted well to the move, and keeps checking daily to see if her bedroom is finished yet!
Aniedi is delighted that the University Strike has just ended. Now he can move forward with his Degree Programme, while Ekaette is preparing towards her exams at the UEC College of Nursing, Ochadamu.
Godwin and Gail are excited by the move and are looking forward to the many opportunities that God will open up for them to continue to serve the people of Nigeria. The UEC is also delighted to have the bond of fellowship strengthened with Mission Africa.
‘But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.’ Isaiah 40:31
Pray along with them:
