The 2026 Laity Week has been officially opened with the theme *“Positioning the Laity for Multiple Graces,”* taken from Book of Zechariah 4:7.
The Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, His Eminence Ekpenyong Akpanika in his opening speech, welcomed everyone warmly and thanked God for the gift of life and service. He explained that the church does not depend only on pastors and leaders. The laity (ordinary church members) also play an important role in the growth and mission of the church.
Reading from Zechariah 4:7, he reminded the congregation that when the people of Israel were rebuilding the temple, they faced many challenges. The work looked too difficult, like a great mountain before them. But God told them that the mountain would become level ground. The work would not be done by human strength, but by God’s Spirit and grace.
He explained that “Grace upon grace” means God gives us more than enough help to do His work. Grace is not only for salvation, healing, or blessings. It is also for service. God gives grace for leadership, faithfulness, endurance, generosity, and witnessing for Christ.
The speaker encouraged the laity to understand that they are not spectators in the church. They are partners in God’s work. As Christians, they represent Christ in their homes, offices, schools, markets, and communities. He urged them to position themselves well through prayer, Bible study, obedience, and active service so that God’s grace can work through them.
He also spoke about the “mountains” people face today, such as economic problems, moral confusion, and spiritual weakness. He assured the congregation that, just as in Zechariah’s time, God can remove every mountain.
The address ended with a call for renewal and commitment. The speaker prayed that the week would awaken fresh grace in everyone and strengthen their faith and service. He then declared the 2026 Laity Week officially open in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Rev Albert Ikechukwu Chima
The PCN-DIPA