Sacred Commitments and Ecclesial Accountability: A Critical Analysis of Ordination Vows in the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion

Authors: Rev. Albert Ulutorti Green PhD; Rev. Ikechukwu Vincent Ezenwa PhD; Rev. Canon Chidiebere Emmanuel Okonkwo PhD; Nganwuchu Geoffrey Chiazo PhD; Rev. Ezewudo, Ugochukwu Obumneme PhD DOI Crossref: 10.66694/siar.gjah202606

Affiliation: Department of Theology and Religion, St. Paul’s Theological college Awka

Corresponding Author: [email protected]

April 21, 2026

SIAR-Global Journal of Arts & Humanities

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.19676640

Sacred Commitments and Ecclesial Accountability: A Critical Analysis of Ordination Vows in the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion

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Abstract

Ordination vows or commitments are sacred covenants undertaken before God and the Church, necessitating that clerics uphold doctrinal fidelity, personal purity, canonical obedience, and diligent pastoral care. This study examines the ordination vows of clergy within the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), with emphasis on their theological, spiritual, liturgical, and pastoral significance within Anglican ministry. It contextualizes these vows by highlighting the inherent relationship between spiritual commitment and ecclesiastical accountability within the framework of episcopal oversight and canonical governance of the Church of Nigeria. Through a comprehensive analysis of each vow, the study underscores the significance of steadfast adherence and the consequences of non-compliance, including moral compromise, liturgical inconsistencies, erosion of ecclesiastical authority, and diminished ministerial credibility. Additionally, it examines contextual challenges specific to the Church of Nigeria, such as cultural expectations, economic limitations, patronage networks, and inconsistent disciplinary enforcement, all of which complicate clergy adherence to their vows. Drawing upon Anglican ecclesiology and pastoral theology, this study argues that diligent observance of the ordination vows is vital for the spiritual growth of clergy and the preservation of the Church's unity, mission, and public witness. The study offers theological and practical recommendations, including enhanced spiritual formation, mentorship programs, transparent disciplinary procedures, culturally sensitive pastoral practices, and increased lay participation in accountability structures. Ordination vows constitute a lifelong commitment that defines and shapes clergy in terms of their identity, integrity, and effectiveness, thereby ensuring their ministry within the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) remains faithful, credible, and firmly grounded in its spiritual and ecclesiastical foundations.

Keywords

Sacred Commitments, Ecclesial Accountability, Ordination Vows, Anglican Communion Church of Nigeria

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Rev. Albert Ulutorti Green PhD; Rev. Ikechukwu Vincent Ezenwa PhD; Rev. Canon Chidiebere Emmanuel Okonkwo PhD; Nganwuchu Geoffrey Chiazo PhD; Rev. Ezewudo, Ugochukwu Obumneme PhD DOI Crossref: 10.66694/siar.gjah202606 (2026). Sacred Commitments and Ecclesial Accountability: A Critical Analysis of Ordination Vows in the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion. SIAR-Global Journal of Arts & Humanities, Vol. 2, No. 1. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.19676640

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Sacred Commitments and Ecclesial Accountability: A Critical Analysis of Ordination Vows in the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion

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