ANGLICAN WOMEN CHARGED TO LEAD WITH FAITH, CHARACTER AND COMPASSION

Christian women have been encouraged to uphold dignity, integrity and godly character while using their influence to strengthen their families and communities.

The call was made by the President of the Women and Girls’ Organisation of the Diocese of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Dr Lydia Odedeji, during the 27th Annual Women’s Conference held in Lagos.

The three-day conference, themed “Dressed for Honour,” was jointly organised by the Oshodi and Ikeja Archdeaconries and attracted more than 1,000 delegates from across the diocese.

Odedeji explained that the theme was not primarily about physical appearance but about the qualities and values that should define Christian women. Drawing inspiration from Proverbs 31:25, she urged participants to cultivate virtues that demonstrate their faith in their daily lives.

She identified humility, kindness, compassion, patience, wisdom and faith as qualities that should characterise Christian women, noting that such virtues reflect the character of Christ.

The bishop’s wife also encouraged women to use their positions and influence to promote peace, strengthen their homes and positively impact the people around them.

She stressed that women have an important role to play in shaping future generations, urging them to become positive examples to their children, families and communities.

According to her, Christian women should not allow societal expectations to determine their worth but should remain confident in their faith and identity while facing life's challenges with courage and hope.

Odedeji further called on women to replace bitterness, pride, fear and discouragement with forgiveness, humility, faith and hope.

She urged them to embrace their responsibilities as mothers, wives, mentors, leaders and role models, stressing that their conduct should consistently reflect the values they profess.

The conference also featured discussions on contemporary issues, health sessions, Bible studies and stage presentations designed to encourage participants spiritually and socially.

Odedeji commended the Lagos State Government for initiatives targeted at improving the welfare of children and young people, including rehabilitation and correctional programmes.

She also called for adequate constitutional safeguards should state policing be introduced, warning that appropriate measures would be needed to prevent possible abuses.

On the forthcoming elections, she urged Nigerians, particularly women, to participate peacefully and reject practices capable of undermining the electoral process, including violence, vote-buying, hate speech and misinformation.

Earlier, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Rt Rev Dr James Odedeji, cautioned Christians against excessive worldliness and encouraged them to remain committed to their faith.

The conference ultimately emphasised the importance of character, responsibility and faith, with participants urged to become positive influences within their families, churches and wider communities.