By Foday Moriba Conteh
The National Pentecostal Fellowship-Sierra Leone has on Sunday 17th January 2021 held its inauguration ceremony for newly elected Executive Members as well as a thanksgiving service, graced by His Excellency the President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio and other high profile personalities among the usual congregation during an auspicious ceremony which was held at the Intercontinental Cathedral on Circular Road in Freetown.
In his remarks, His Grace the Bishop, Mathew Edwards, introduced the new leadership and expressed gratitude to the outgone Executive, led by Bishop Archibald Cole, noting that they did an outstanding job and served the fellowship effectively.
He furthered that the outgone Executive also took firm positions on certain emerging national issues bordering around the development of the country also disclosing that the new Executive would serve a four year tenure in the best interest of the country and association.
In his brief address to the congregation, President Bio said he is heartened to witness the inauguration service of the new Executive, noting that he had been part of the process that led to the election of the Executive members.
He thanked the church for providing leadership while encouraging them to take the organization to another level for the betterment of the people of God.
President Bio thanked the men and women of God for their service towards God’s people and the nation. He also expressed gratitude for their support during the civil war, Ebola, COVID-19 and most recently, their support to his Government.
Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly, the new President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone said their aim is to ensure the wellbeing of the Christian community, adding that they would be working together to advance the kingdom of God and the welfare of the nation.
He thanked all those who supported the previous Executive saying that he was expecting the same during his tenure.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Haji Kella expressed appreciation to the Pentecostal Fellowship, adding that as a Ministry they have enjoyed a very cordial working relationship.
He said Sierra Leone is one country that is proud of not having any form of religious division saying we should be proud as citizens and in that regard he applauded the religious leaders for the tremendous work they have been doing in maintaining peace and unity among all citizens across the country.
On his part, a representative of the Christian Association of Sierra Leone, Rev. H A. Samuels, who also doubles as the President of the Council of Churches-Sierra Leone congratulated the newly elected Executive of the Pentecostal Fellowship led by Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly, adding that they have been working for a very longtime in the Christian community.
He said that they recognize their God given Mission which God has called all Christians to be part of saying it is really colorful when they collaborate to be a Voice of the Voiceless.
