LAGOS SEPTEMBER 6, 2016(CISA) – Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos has advised Christians to desist from the use of phones in places of worship as a sign of respect for God.

Archbishop Martins made the call in his sermon at the dedication of the Catholic Church of Visitation, Festac Town, Lagos September 3.

The prelate said that introduction of the phone technology had made people lose their sense of humility and reverence for God while in Church.

“Some Christians have turned their phones to Holy Bible, reading scriptures, news and researches with their phones during sermons. They have turned a positive invention to misplacement of priority; such an act does not show reverence to God and should be banned in places of worship,’’ he said.

The Archbishop said that the inventor of the Facebook, who recently visited the country, displayed humility which should be emulated by users of these technologies.

He however, commended the priests and parishioners of the church for their sacrifice and dedication in setting up an edifice for worship within a short period.

“You have all labored to build a befitting place of worship for God but it does not end there, you must build up your hearts for His comfort and dwelling. Then you should make sure you maintain the treasure by reverencing and keeping the structure in good condition,” Nigeria’s PM newspaper quoted Archbishop Adewale as saying.