The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) hosted a rededication service on January 15, 2025, to usher in the New Year. This event provided an opportunity for the hospital staff and community to reflect, pray, and commit to a renewed sense of purpose and dedication.

The service commenced with an opening hymn, followed by an opening prayer and a vibrant session of praise and worship. The declaration of purpose by Dr. Somiari Harcourt, referencing 2 Chronicles 7:14, set the tone for the event, highlighting the hospital’s need for divine guidance in achieving its goals.

Two Bible readings formed the spiritual foundation of the service. The first lesson, taken from Psalms 32:1-11, was read by the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Professor Henry A.A. Ugboma. The second lesson, read by Pharmacist Wariboko West, from Colossians 3:12-17, emphasized the values of compassion, humility, and unity. Prayers, led by Rev. Matthew Agi, were offered for the management, staff, and patients of the hospital, invoking blessings and divine wisdom for the year ahead.

Reverend Marius Alugwe, the guest minister, delivered an inspiring sermon centered on the theme, “Remain with God.” Drawing from John 15:5, he reminded the congregation of the futility of human effort without divine intervention, stressing that even with abundant resources, true success depends on God’s guidance and blessings. He referenced 1 Peter 3:10, urging everyone to refrain from speaking negatively and emphasizing the power of words in shaping one’s environment. He further encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s justice and power, citing Psalms 79:10 to reinforce his message. Concluding the sermon, Reverend Alugwe blessed the congregation, marking the hallmark of the rededication service.

In his remarks, the CMD, Professor Henry A.A. Ugboma, commended Reverend Alugwe for the impactful sermon, acknowledging its relevance to the hospital’s mission. Reflecting on his tenure as CMD, he humbly admitted that he might have unintentionally offended some individuals and sincerely asked for their forgiveness. He said, “For those who know me, I do not bring friends or enemies into this job to ensure that the right thing is done. So, I want to thank you; please work with me for the rest of the year.” He pledged to be more mindful in his remaining year of service and assured the staff that all his actions were driven by the best intentions for the hospital’s growth and success.

The CMD also expressed hope for a peaceful and smooth transition in the upcoming contest for the CMD position, affirming his belief that God’s will would prevail in selecting the next leader. He appealed to the hospital staff to collaborate with him during his final year in office, emphasizing the importance of unity and teamwork in achieving the hospital’s goals.

The rededication service was a profound moment of spiritual reflection, renewal, and collective commitment. With prayers, blessings, and heartfelt messages, the event inspired the hospital community to embrace the New Year with faith, resilience, and a renewed determination to serve with excellence.