In recent conversations about faith practices, Pastor Emmanuel Iren’s response to a statement made by Peter Obi has sparked discussions on the importance of standing firm in one’s faith and beliefs.
Pastor Emmanuel Iren, founder and lead pastor of Celebration Church International, addressed the issue head-on after a comment by Nigerian politician Peter Obi about the need to “dismantle vigils.”
This statement by Obi, which many perceived as a critique of the widespread practice of vigils in Nigeria, especially within Christian communities, has drawn both support and backlash.
In his response, Pastor Iren took to social media, using the phrase “It’s the gaslighting for me,” a term that highlights how certain actions or words can subtly undermine or manipulate others’ beliefs or perceptions.
Pastor Iren’s comment reflects a concern that people of faith, especially Christians, may feel pressured to question or downplay their spiritual practices.
He encouraged believers not to let anyone “talk down on your faith in God.”
This strong stance has resonated with many, reigniting conversations on why practices like vigils hold profound spiritual significance for millions.
Gaslighting, a psychological term, refers to manipulating someone into doubting their own beliefs or reality.
In the context of faith, it can manifest when individuals are subtly made to feel that their spiritual practices are unnecessary, irrelevant, or even harmful.
Pastor Iren’s use of the term “gaslighting” emphasizes that such behavior can diminish the confidence people hold in their faith.
By drawing attention to it, he highlights an often-overlooked issue: the influence of societal views and pressures on personal beliefs.
For many, faith is a deeply personal and essential aspect of life, shaping how they navigate the world.
But when influential voices question these practices, some may begin to second-guess their value.
Vigils, a time-honored practice in Christianity, are dedicated periods of prayer, often extending through the night. For many Nigerian Christians, vigils represent a powerful opportunity to seek God’s intervention, connect with the divine, and build a deeper spiritual relationship.
From church gatherings to smaller family or individual vigils, these prayerful nights are seen as times of empowerment, healing, and breakthrough.
They often carry significant cultural and religious weight, symbolizing resilience, commitment, and unity among believers. The popularity of vigils is also tied to the belief that nighttime prayer is particularly potent, often drawing references from Bible verses like Psalm 119:62, where David says, “At midnight, I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws.”
Peter Obi’s Remarks and the Controversy
Peter Obi, a prominent political figure in Nigeria and a past presidential candidate, suggested that “dismantling” vigils might help address certain issues in society. His comment, however, did not sit well with several religious leaders and believers who felt that it unfairly targeted a foundational Christian practice.
While Obi may have intended to comment on the broader effects of such gatherings on communities or public resources, his words struck a chord, prompting responses from various leaders in the Christian community.
Obi’s critics argue that his remarks overlook the personal and societal benefits of vigils. Beyond individual spiritual growth, vigils foster a sense of community and solidarity, bringing people together for a common purpose.
Critics fear that dismissing these gatherings could weaken the moral and spiritual support systems that many people rely on, especially in challenging times.
Pastor Iren’s Call to Defend Faith
Pastor Iren’s response serves as a reminder to believers to stand strong and proud in their faith, regardless of societal opinions or political statements. By urging people not to “let anyone talk down on your faith in God,” he promotes resilience against outside influences that might seek to diminish or question one’s spiritual practices.
This message resonates deeply in a world where faith practices are increasingly scrutinized. Iren’s encouragement to resist spiritual “gaslighting” empowers believers to stay true to what they know is meaningful and transformative for them. His statement also emphasizes that faith should be practiced authentically and fearlessly, free from doubt imposed by others.
The Balance Between Faith and Society
The exchange between Peter Obi and Pastor Emmanuel Iren brings forward an ongoing conversation about the balance between personal faith and societal expectations. As communities grow and evolve, faith practices are bound to encounter varying opinions. While some may seek to modernize or reform traditional practices, others find in these traditions a source of unshakable strength and identity.
For Nigerian Christians, vigils are more than a tradition; they are a cornerstone of their spiritual lives, representing moments of divine connection and renewal.
Pastor Iren’s stance reinforces the idea that faith practices should not be diluted or abandoned simply to conform to public opinion. Rather, they should be held with conviction, celebrated, and shared freely.
Conclusion: Embracing Faith with Confidence
Pastor Emmanuel Iren’s response to Peter Obi’s remarks serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing firm in one’s faith, especially in the face of criticism or misunderstanding.
In a world that often questions the relevance of spiritual practices, Iren’s message encourages believers to proudly embrace their faith and continue practices like vigils with confidence.
Faith is personal, and for many, practices such as vigils provide strength, purpose, and peace. Pastor Iren’s words offer a call to all believers: stay true, resist outside pressures, and hold on to the practices that uplift your spirit.
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