Christian women urged to embrace godly character, dignity

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Christian women have been urged to embrace godly character, strength, dignity and integrity in their homes, churches and communities.

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The President of the Women and Girls’ Organisation, Diocese of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Dr Lydia Odedeji, gave the charge while delivering her presidential address at the 27th Annual Women’s Conference themed, “Dressed for Honour.”

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A statement made available on Saturday said the theme was drawn from Proverbs 31:25: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

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Odedeji said being “dressed for honour” went beyond outward appearance, stressing that God was more concerned with the spiritual and moral qualities that define a woman.

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According to her, “virtues such as humility, kindness, compassion, patience, wisdom and faith are the true garments that reflect the character of Christ and should be cultivated by every Christian woman.”

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She urged women to become builders of their homes and communities by using their words wisely, encouraging others and promoting peace wherever they found themselves.

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Odedeji also emphasised the role women play in shaping future generations through their conduct, values and personal example.

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The statement said the WGO President as “encouraged women to remain strong and hopeful in the face of life’s challenges.

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“She also urged them to recognise their worth and identity in Christ rather than allowing societal expectations or the opinions of others to determine their value.

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“Calling on women to embrace service, integrity and righteousness, Dr. Odedeji stressed that every act of kindness, sacrifice and service rendered in God’s name carries eternal value. She challenged them to examine the “garments” they wear spiritually, including bitterness, pride, fear and discouragement, and replace them with forgiveness, humility, faith and hope.”

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She further encouraged women to rise to their God-given responsibilities as mothers, wives, mentors, leaders and role models, saying their lives should reflect God’s presence and bring honour to His name.

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Concluding her address, the Bishop’s wife also commended the Lagos State Government for its commitment to the welfare of children and young people through the establishment of rehabilitation centres and correctional facilities across the state.

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On the debate over state policing, Odedeji advocated adequate constitutional safeguards to prevent potential abuse of the system if implemented.

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She also encouraged Nigerians, particularly women, to participate actively and peacefully in forthcoming elections, urging them to reject electoral violence, vote-buying, hate speech and misinformation.

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Earlier, in his welcome address, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West and Patron of the Women and Girls’ Organisation, the Rt Rev Dr James Odedeji, cautioned Christians against worldliness and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their faith.

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The three-day conference, co-hosted by the Oshodi and Ikeja Archdeaconries, attracted more than 1,000 delegates from across the diocese.

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The event featured health talks, discussions on contemporary issues, Bible study sessions and stage presentations.

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