By Glory James
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, has commissioned a state-of-the-art auditorium for the Etinan Local Government Parish of Insight Bible Church (IBC).
According to the Commissioner, the edifice, christened David’s Tabernacle, was his own way of showing gratitude to God for His grace towards him, his family and to immortalize the good virtues of late Pastor David Christopher Essien.
While describing the occasion as memorable and remarkable, Rt. Hon. Etteh assured members of the church of his continuous support and commitment, saying, “My testimony talks of miracles, mercies and grace. I have been a great beneficiary of God’s faithfulness and this has made me to be an investor in the House of God. I will continue to be. Let me also assure you that my family and I will continue to support this Parish with more structure including the Pastor’s House.”
The Commissioner, who said he will celebrate the 2020 Christmas with members of the Church, further promised to commission more structures in the Church during her next anniversary.
Earlier in his homily, the Senior Pastor of IBC, Dr Sylvanus Ukafia, who dedicated the new Auditorium for the advancement of the gospel, commended Rt. Hon. Etteh for his selfless services and for always acknowledging the grace of God in his life.
Dr Ukafia, who centered his sermon on Luke Chapter One Verses 30–38, admonished the congregation to be firm in their faith and trust in God, using the Christmas Story that brought about supernatural results.
In his remarks, the Resident Minister, Pastor Joseph Akpan, recounted the indelible role played by his predecessor towards relocating the church from a rented property to its permanent site.
He said “December 13 is unique for us and this date will ever remain memorable for us. This parish commenced on December 13, 2013. The foundation for this Auditorium was laid on December 13, 2018. Today is December 13, 2020, the dedication ceremony and the 7th Anniversary of the Church.”
Also speaking, the wife of late Pastor, Mrs. Ndifreke David Essien, expressed appreciation to God for the supernatural result, adding “there will be no David’s Tabernacle without this congregation. I thank everyone here for the honour done me and my family.”
The event was witnessed by the wife of the Commissioner, Mrs. Ekaette Etteh and children; Pastor (Mrs.) Erikan Ukafia; the Special Assistant to the Governor on Projects, Mr. Ekoakwaha Etteh, among others.
