Table of Contents
- Warning to Christian Leaders
- The Pulpit as a Sacred Responsibility
- The Church's Prophetic Role
- Engagement with Authority
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Taraba State, Very Rev. Dr. Fr. Williams Awoshiri, has cautioned Christian leaders against using the pulpit as a means for division, hatred, or political insults.
Awoshiri encouraged them to uphold its sanctity as a platform for peace, moral guidance, and responsible interaction with those in power.
The cleric delivered this warning on Saturday in his New Year message to Christians and residents of the state, describing the pulpit as a sacred responsibility that demands careful stewardship and spiritual maturity.
“The pulpit is a sacred trust, a holy platform entrusted to us to proclaim the Word of God in truth, love, wisdom, and power,” he stated.
Awoshiri stressed that while the Church has a clear prophetic mandate, this role must be exercised with restraint and wisdom to avoid exacerbating existing social and political tensions.
He warned that the pulpit should never be transformed into a venue for personal attacks, hate speech, incitement, or reckless remarks that could deepen societal divides.
“Our calling is to foster faith, promote godly values, encourage peace, and cultivate moral discipline,” the CAN chairman cautioned.
He further observed that speaking truth to those in authority remains a fundamental duty of the Church, but emphasized that it must always be conducted in a constructive and prayerful manner.
According to him, “While the Church has a prophetic role in speaking truth to power, such engagement must be constructive, prayerful, and guided by wisdom and patriotism.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message from Rev. Dr. Fr. Williams Awoshiri?
The main message is a warning against using the pulpit for division and hatred, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its sanctity for peace and moral guidance.
What does Rev. Awoshiri say about the role of the Church?
He states that the Church has a prophetic role to speak truth to power, but this must be done in a constructive and prayerful manner to avoid escalating tensions.



