BENIN CITY/By Nuel Suji – The Archbishop of the Benin metropolitan see, Most Rev. Fr Augustine Obiora Akubeze has urged Christians to be genuine ambassadors of the Church. 
Rev Fr Akubeze gave the advice Thursday, at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Benin, during the 2017 Cathedraticum celebration in appreciation of the Archbishop’s work with gift items.
The Cathedraticum ‘Thanks giving ‘ service is a yearly obligation in the Catholic doctrine by the parishioners in appreciation of the Archbishop for the propagation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In his message, Akubeze admonished Christians to always let their dealings with people be such that will not drag the body of Christ into disrepute.
He also enjoined the congregation to re-examine themselves with a view to knowing the impact of the ongoing Lenten season on their spiritual being, and their relationship with God.
He asserted that the period of lent is not just an annual Christian ceremony but a divine opportunity for man to improve his relationship with God.
In his remarks, the Chaplain, Government House Catholic Chapel, Rev Fr Andrew Obiyan said the essence of the day is to thank God, appreciate and renew loyalty to the Archbishop, Fr Akubeze for his evangelism and intercession work.
Speaking on behalf of the State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Chief of staff, Office of the Deputy Governor, Hon Kingsley Ehigiamusur said that Edo state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy hold the Church in high esteem.
He urged the Church to continue to play its important role to complement government’s efforts towards the development of the state.
The Head of Service, Mrs. Gladys Idahor who also attended the service described the day as significant as it marks the parishioners’ loyalty to the Archbishop in the vineyard.
Thirty-four parishes and twenty six catholic institutions under the Benin Metropolitan See, including Government House Catholic Chapel made their cash and material donations to the Archbishop.
