WELCOMING OUR NEW SOLDIERS OF CHRIST: EMBRACING THE SACRED CALL TO SERVICE, UNITY, FAITH, AND BROTHERHOOD

 

21 November 2025  /  friday Blues 1-020

 

WELCOMING OUR NEW SOLDIERS OF CHRIST: EMBRACING THE SACRED CALL TO SERVICE, UNITY, FAITH, AND BROTHERHOOD

 

by Noble Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje (KSJI)

 

+234 80 34 72 59 05   /   druzoadirieje2015@gmail.com

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Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Distinguished Knights and Gracious Ladies,

 

It is with profound joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of Christian solidarity that we welcome you—our newly initiated members—into the Abuja Grand Commandery of the Ancient and Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International and the Ladies Auxiliary. Today, you have not only joined a centuries-old tradition of honour and discipline; you have answered a sacred call to service, faith, and fellowship.

 

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 133:1, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” Today, you become part of a spiritual family bound by unity of purpose, fortified by charity, and guided by the light of Christ. Your initiation marks the beginning of a journey of growth, sacrifice, and noble duty, and we celebrate you with hearts full of pride and thanksgiving.

 

The Knights of St. John International is not merely an organization—it is a ministry of service. As Christ teaches in Matthew 20:28, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” In this spirit, you are called to embody humility, courage, loyalty, and charity. These virtues are the pillars of our Order and the foundation of our Christian witness. Through your membership, you now join hands with thousands worldwide who strive daily to defend the faith, uplift the needy, and advance the mission of the Church.

 

Dear new Knights and Ladies, your admission today affirms your readiness to stand as soldiers of Christ, defenders of truth, and ambassadors of peace. As Ephesians 6:11 urges us, “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Your regalia symbolizes this spiritual armor, reminding you that your battles are fought with love, integrity, and unwavering devotion to God.

 

Our Abuja Grand Commandery and Laux under the leadership of Noble Brig. General Bona Ugwuja as Grand President, and Noble Lady Florence Chuke as the Grand Respected President respectively, rejoices in your presence, energy, and commitment. We look forward to your active participation in our spiritual, humanitarian, and communal engagements. May your talents flourish, your faith deepen, and your service bring blessings to the Church, our communities, and our beloved Order.

 

As your Grand Chief of Protocols, I assure you of our fraternity’s support, mentorship, and brotherly companionship. You are not alone on this journey; you walk with Christ and with a united body of Knights and Ladies who stand ready to guide and uplift you.

 

In the words of Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” May this assurance empower you as you embrace your new identity with courage and joy.

 

Welcome, once again, dear Brothers and Sisters, into the Abuja Grand Commandery. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be upon you now and always.

Vivat Jesus!

 

 

Noble Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje is a distinguished and multidimensional communicator whose work as a writer, columnist, blogger, reviewer, editor, and author bridges the intersections of global health, sustainable development, human rights, climate justice, and governance. He is the Chief of Protocols of the Abuja Grand Commandery of the Ancient and Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International, and has attained the Noble (highest) degree of the Order. A former Vice Chairman of the PPC and two-terms President of the CMO of St. Martin Parish, Lugbe Abuja, Sir Uzodinma Adirieje has been honoured as ‘Ezinna’ CMO of St. John of the Cross Parish, Amaruru, Orlu Diocese, Imo State; and ‘Ezinna’ CWO of St. Martin Parish, Lugbe Abuja. He holds the ‘Ozo’ title as ‘Nze Akuzuobodo’, and a number of chieftaincy titles including ‘High Chief Ugwumba I of Amaruru clan’, and ‘Ahaejiejemba Ndigbo Lagos State’.