The Church has been called upon to continue to be a moral compass, in terms of speaking the truth to power, upholding justice, and fostering peace in the communities.

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun made the call while delivering his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the Official Opening of the 3rd Session of the 5th Synod of the Diocese of Ijebu South-West Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) of St. Jude's Church, Ijesa-Ijebu, with the theme "Christian Steadfastness in a VUCA World", held at the Church premises in Ijesa-Ijebu.

Represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, Gov. Abiodun said the church should be commended for being alive to its responsibilities as expected and added that it has been the light and salt of the earth which guarantees a comfortable and peaceful life in the troubled world of today, and urged it not to relent on its oars.

"As an administration, we recognise the invaluable role that the faith-based leaders play in promoting peace, harmony and social development. Let us harness the occasion to strengthen our partnerships and work together towards fostering a more resilient and united community. With your guidance, we can navigate the uncertainties and complexities of today's world, grounded in love, humility and a shared vision for a brighter future", the Gov. said.

He said his administration is irrevocably committed to re-engineering the apparatus of the State to serve and meet the genuine aspirations of the people to enable them live fulfilling lives.

"We appreciate that a people who live a good life will contribute to the development of their society. Such will worship God in truth as well. I use this opportunity to thank God for the church which has been standing by the State with prayers and supplications", Gov. Abiodun said.

He encouraged the delegates to deliberate prayerfully and constructively, to allow their resolutions to be guided by wisdom, unity and a shared commitment to the gospel and progress of the society and called for more support and cooperation from all stakeholders as the development of the Gateway State is a joint responsibility.

The Governor congratulated the Bishop of the Diocese/ President of the Synod, Rt. Revd. Dr Babatunde Ogunbanwo, the clergy and laity as well as the delegates on the hosting of the event and wished them successful deliberations and fruitful sessions at the 3-day event.

On her part, the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun while commending the Anglican Church for being a pillar of spiritual direction that has shaped lives and lifted communities said the theme is profound as today's world is characterised by many complexities and called for particular attention to all laid bare in order not to drift away but remain grounded in the love of God.

Mrs. Abiodun congratulated the church and commended them for their commitment to the work of God as the Synod is a time of spiritual renewal and answers to all their prayers.

In his presentation of a 57-paged Bishop's Charge, the Diocesan Bishop of the Ijebu South-West and President of the Synod, the Rt. Revd. Dr. Babatunde Ogunbanwo said as the world today is marked by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity (VUCA), Christians must be steadfast in looking forward to the second coming of Jesus Christ and remain beacons of hope and stability.

He said the Synod is a unique one, as it is part of the celebration of the 15th anniversary of the inauguration of the Diocese, and it is meant to continue to celebrate the faithfulness of God upon them, to evaluate their performance and renew their commitment as a Diocese in order to keep forging ahead.