May 2, 2019
Easter season
“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. “Romans 12:9-10
I have important news to share with you.
An official memo was received by me this morning that announced a new Agreement between the Church of Nigeria and ACNA. The Agreement was signed by Archbishop Nicholas Okoh and Archbishop Foley Beach and outlines the clarification of Provinces of the Church of Nigeria and ACNA as well as the nature of their relationship regarding CANA.
The Agreement does not state nor promote the idea that CANA is “pulling out” of ACNA. It does clarify what has always been the case but was obfuscated due to misunderstanding. Further, the Agreement clearly states we are working together and will continue to do so in the spirit and mind of Christ for the good of the Church and our mission in North America as we proclaim the gospel of grace in Christ.
CANA is now solely under the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) with the desire to be in ministry partnership with ACNA, if ACNA wants us to be in that role. This has ALWAYS been the original plan and intention of the Church of Nigeria. In addition, the mission of CANA has always been to reach everyone in North America — Nigerians and non-Nigerians – who wish to be part of a faithful orthodox Province that is fully part of the Anglican Communion. That is why the Church of Nigeria consecrated both Nigerian and Anglo Bishops for CANA in North America. So, it is false to say that CANA is for expatriate Nigerians in the USA and Canada.
Satan would love to turn this into something that it is not. We need to resist that in humility with brotherly love and mutual respect so that we can shine as lights in the world to the glory of God. Once again, CANA is not for Nigerians — an idea that is being falsely propagated. All evidence points to the contrary.
CANA is part of the Anglican Communion because it is a mission of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and we are and will continue to be in partnership with ACNA for the work of the gospel.
Warm regards,
The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Felix Orji, OSB
Bishop | Anglican Diocese of the West
www.dioceseofthewest.org
“We are justified by faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone. True faith always yields the fruit of obedience to one degree or another.” Dr. R. C. Sproul
