2011: Mark, Suswan Preach Non-Violence During polls
ABUJA, Oct 31, (THEWILL) – In spite of the enormous challenges facing the country, the President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has urged Nigerians to seek the face of God with all genuineness, sincerity and exhibit a spirit of fair-play in the success of the 2011 general elections.
Mark, speaking during the thanksgiving mass and reception organized in honour of the Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam and his Deputy, Stephen Lawani at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Otukpo, Benue State said Nigerians should present any of our request to God with all sincerity.
"As people, we should present our petition to God with all sincerity, it is only in reasonable request that we can receive favour from the Almighty God.
"We must know that we are our brothers keepers and be mindful of the fact that the problem we create today will definitely come around us tomorrow,” the Senate president said.
Senator Mark appealed that love and humility should be part of our services to God, "We should show love and good brotherliness. No matter the condition, we should believe in God and do according to His wish, we should also be conscious of the fact that in peace and harmony, we will attain a greater height," he added.
In his remark, Benue State Governor Rt. Hon. Gabriel Suswam charged political aspirants in the country not to engage violence in their dealings, saying, "Next elections, we don't want violence, we should live by example. Don't create problem, as leaders, let be peaceful in mobilizing our supporters or followerships."
While commending the Senate President for constructing a befitting house for Resident Priests of the Diocese, Governor Suswam said Senator Mark has been a role model in God's work and Church development.
He said the Senate President has clearly shown that despite his political attainment, he still humbled himself by building an edifice to accommodate the priests in the household of God.
Suswam commended the Senate President for his fatherly role in the affair of the State and in piloting the National Assembly which he said has brought dignity and stability into the Upper legislative arm of government.
In the homily, Very Rev. Father Captain Kenneth Odeh demonstrated the need to give God thanks in all circumstances.
Quoting from the book of Excc 3: 1-8, Father Odeh stated that the Governor has demonstrated the highest form of worship, thanksgiving and prayer in the Catholic Church by worshiping in the context of the Holy Mass.
He said that the Church would continue to partner with the government at all levels and in complimenting other in their various functions and activities.
Rev. Father Odeh however expressed gratitude to the Senate President for donating the building which is located within the church premises.
The Holy Mass was attended by political, spiritual and traditional leaders in Benue State.