18/05/2020
*A MESSAGE FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT ON THE EVENT OF AYF NIGERIAN 73RD ANNIVERSARY*
1. Beloved Brethren in Christ,
2. We give thanks to God Almighty for great things He has done for us through the ages past and many more He's doing. May His name be praised. Amen
3. We are here again with great joy amidst this ravaging pandemic to celebrate our birth anniversary (the event of 7th May 1947) *2020 Youth Week*, handed over to us by our founding fathers.
4. This year's Youth Week is coming in a time when the whole world is on a stand still over the Covid19 pandemic and Nigeria is not an exception as the number of confirmed cases keeps rising on a daily basis. Rather than worry, as Christians we are encouraged to stand firm and know that our Redeemer Lives and He would always safeguard us.
5. Our Faith has again been challenged for the world and our immediate environment to see what we will do differently as soldiers of Jesus Christ.
6. We are aware of the hunger and agony this seat at home has caused for our members across the church of Nigeria. We equally appreciate the palliatives being given out by some of our church leaders in order cushion the effect of this virus. Now, we urge the various blocs and especially, Diocesan Councils to see to how best we can help our needy Youths and at same time, appreciate those Diocesan Councils that are already doing this.
7. As regards the proposed *_National Leadership Retreat cm AGM,*_ we will keep updating us as things unfolds. At the moment, there is restrictions on interstate travels and as such, the AGM is still on hold as other planned events so far.
8. We are all encouraged to strictly adhere to NCDC guidelines concerning Covid-19 in order to stay safe and avoid the spread of the virus.
9. We sincerely commend all for participating in the online prayers and for the way and manner we are upholding one another, God bless you all. *Nevertheless, be reminded that we shall at 8pm today observe a Prayer session on this platform to appreciate God for this far He has led us*
10. As we celebrate our 73rd anniversary today, we joyfully congratulate all Youths in Anglican Communion and wish you all a happy youth week. For those Councils who may not be able celebrate this week at the moment due to social gathering restrictions by Government, you are welcome to reschedule to when it's safer to do.
11. As your President, we will continue to uphold our values, working relentlessly and tirelessly to protect and preserve one of the prides of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion (i.e the Anglican Youth Fellowship), a leading, impactful, purposeful fellowship. We are all one and in oneness we are united in the Perfect Man Jesus Christ.
12. Remember, *GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN.*
Thank you and may the Lord bless us
Long Live, AYF Nigeria
Long Live, the Church of Nigeria ( Anglican Communion)
Long Live, the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Yours truly
*Bro. Brown A H Lloyd*
National President