Family and friends on Sunday came together to celebrate the longevity of Rt. Rev. ANC Iyalla at St. Jude’s Cathedral, Creek Road, Port Harcourt as he turned a hundred years.
Rt. Rev. Iyalla, who hails from Bakana in Degema local Government Area of Rivers State, lived a long life of public service before joining the clergy. He rose to become the bishop of the diocese of the church in Port Harcourt.
Family members, who gave testimonials about him, spared no word in describing the outstanding life of service to God and humanity, even in retirement.
At the special service that the church devoted for his thanksgiving, Bishop Tamunobelema Kelsie-Braide spoke about the difficulties involved in living a Christian life. But at the end of the day, the crown would be there for those who were able to endure, Bishop Kelsie-Braide said in his sermon titled, Win the Crown of Everlasting Life.
He said Pa Iyalla survived all the attacks that came his way from the day he gave his life o Christ ad was alive today at the age of 100 to give his testimonies.
The bishop said those who have chosen to be Christians must leave behind their past life of sin and be prepared to battle it out because “Christianity is not a casual stroll but a purposeful strive.”
In his remarks, Rt. Rev Iyalla acknowledged God’s faithfulness and show of mercy towards him. He said he was particularly grateful t God because only a handful of people are able to live up to 100 years.
He prayed for members of the congregation and urged God to show them mercy as was extended to him.
In church to honour him were traditional rulers and community leaders from Bakana and other communities in Kalabari land. A special reception was held for him at Camp and Bride Events centre in Port Harcourt.
