By Rev. Filibus Bakari Auta
Rather than marking his 46th birthday with fanfare and personal celebration, the Resident Bishop of the United Methodist Church Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau Episcopal Area, Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel, chose a different path one defined by compassion, generosity and the love of Christ. In a remarkable humanitarian outreach, the bishop visited vulnerable members of society, distributing food items, clothing, diapers, detergents and cash gifts to patients, widows and the less privileged.
The outreach, which coincided with the bishop’s birthday, transformed what could have been a personal milestone into a day of hope and encouragement for those facing difficult circumstances. Smiles replaced despair as beneficiaries received not only material support but also heartfelt prayers and words of comfort from the bishop and members of The United Methodist Church.
Addressing the gathering, Bishop Emmanuel gave all glory to God for granting him another year of life and ministry. He explained that his decision to celebrate among the sick and disadvantaged was inspired by Christ’s call to serve those often overlooked by society.
“Birthdays are moments of thanksgiving, and there is no better way to thank God than by sharing His love with those who need it most. The sick, widows and the less privileged are precious in God’s sight. They should never feel forgotten,” the bishop said.
The Deputy Director of Nursing Services and Head of the Paediatrics Unit, Nurse Rose Danzumi Solomon, applauded the bishop’s humanitarian gesture, describing it as both timely and impactful. She noted that the donated diapers, detergents, clothing and other essential items would greatly ease the burden on patients and their caregivers while complementing the hospital’s efforts to provide quality care.
Mrs Ruya Samuel M. Sule one of the beneficiaries representing the windows visibly moved by the bishop’s kindness, expressed profound gratitude for the assistance. Many remarked that they were deeply touched that the bishop reached out to them irrespective of their religious background or denomination. They offered heartfelt prayers, asking God to continue to strengthen, protect and enlarge Bishop Emmanuel’s ministry.
Significantly, the outreach also coincided with World Hepatitis Day, prompting Bishop Emmanuel to use the occasion to promote healthy living and preventive healthcare. He sympathised with patients receiving treatment and commended healthcare professionals for their unwavering dedication to saving lives despite enormous challenges. He urged the public to make routine medical check-ups a regular habit, stressing that early diagnosis remains one of the most effective tools in preventing and managing diseases.
The atmosphere of compassion culminated in a joyful celebration marked by inspiring testimonies, vibrant songs of praise and worship led by members of The United Methodist Church, and fervent prayers of thanksgiving. It was a birthday celebration that demonstrated that true greatness is measured not by what one receives, but by what one gives.
As Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel marked another year of faithful service, his greatest birthday message was unmistakable: the Church is at its best when it becomes the hands and feet of Christ, bringing hope to the hurting, dignity to the forgotten and love to a world in need.
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