Rector of Methodist Theological Institute, Sagamu, Ogun State, Very Rev. Dr. Raphael Akhijemen Idialu, has advised students to spend less time on social media but more on studies, prayers and spiritual development.
Speaking at the combined matriculation ceremony of student ministers in the institute chapel , Idialu said that they must develop skills in critical thinking, be analytical, and learn how to question received information in a refined manner, rather than spending much of their time on social media.
He further advised, “There is nothing wrong to make use of the social media. But do not let social media become an excuse for not engaging your mind intellectually. I will encourage you to be more open-minded and welcome new insights and revelations that come from research and reflections.
”I want you to appreciate early enough the fact that your future is in your hands and that it is really up to you to succeed in making it or failing to fulfill your ministry. Students who do not have a vision and a dream of what they want to achieve, are likea boat without a direction in turbulent waters. I encourage you to strive for academic excellence. You will be on the way to achieving excellence if you are able to strike the right balance between your academics, spiritual formation, extra curricula activities and social life”, the rector admonished.
The Methodist Church Nigeria Presbyter admonished,“As your teachers, mentors and advisors shall be available to guide you, so long as you are willing to be guided. We will give you all the necessary support, but only if you use the legitimate means to seek such support. We look forward to teaching and interacting with you during your stay in the Institute. We pledge that we will do all we can to make your stay here as pleasant as possible. Enjoy your stay here; take advantage of every facility that is offered to develop yourself and to prepare you for the ministry vocation and life.
“In this Institute, we pride ourselves in not only training students in academic work, but also in character and spiritual formation. So, that upon graduation the student will be fully ready to be a responsible minister and leader who will contribute to church and national development in a patriotic and result-oriented manner. I recommend that you emulate the example of your mentors and teachers in self-discipline, self-care, good mode of dressing, fidelity to your studies and work, and general comportment, so that you will not be found wanting at any time”, he advised.
In his remarks, the institute Registrar, Very Rev. Dr. Bamidele Adedeji, advised the students to be focus and serious in their programmes as God who called them into the ministry wouldn’t abandon them.
Among the eight studentsadmitted to the institute for the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) programme, is a journalist, Stanley Ihedigbo, who is a candidate from Lagos North Diocese of Methodist Church Nigeria.
