The Nation Newspaper

Category: worship

  • Pastor Joshua urges Christians to enter New Year with unshakable faith

    Pastor Joshua urges Christians to enter New Year with unshakable faith

    Leader of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Pastor Evelyn Joshua, has appealed to Christians around the world to step into the New Year with unshakable faith and absolute trust in God.

    She made the call on Sunday while speaking at the church’s annual thanksgiving service held at its headquarters in Lagos, reminding worshippers that those who trust in God can look forward to brighter and better days.

    “As you live to the coming year, I encourage you all to hold on to God with absolute trust,” she said. “Walk with Him boldly, expectantly and joyfully. For the path of the righteous is like the shining sun that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. In this ministry, better is not good enough. The best is yet to come.”

    Pastor Joshua expressed deep gratitude to God for His faithfulness throughout the year, describing Him as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and of Prophet T.B. Joshua.

    “He is the God who speaks, who leads and never fails. Give thanks to God, for He is good; His mercy endures forever,” she said.

    Reflecting on the church’s journey in the outgoing year, she said it unfolded just as revealed by the Holy Spirit, describing it as a forward-looking year filled with testimonies.

    According to her, God moved His people from sickness to healing, from lack to abundance, and from disappointment to divine appointments. 

    She also highlighted the church’s spiritual and physical growth, citing Psalm 105 as evidence of God’s blessings upon the ministry.

    In his opening remarks, Pastor David Ogong from Uganda said the special thanksgiving service was inspired by Pastor Joshua’s desire to set aside a dedicated day to honour God for His goodness.

    “Not that we don’t give thanks daily,” he said, “but this is the day we come together as a family — the Emmanuel TV family, the SCOAN family, and the family of Jesus Christ, to show our appreciation for His love, faithfulness, favour, kindness, and goodness.”

    Pastor Ogong thanked God for what He continues to do in the ministry through its leadership. 

    He also expressed gratitude for the divine strength, guidance, and unity that have kept the church thriving.

    Reflecting on the journey of the ministry, he reminded the congregation of its roots in the vision given to Prophet T.B. Joshua, of blessed memory.

    “Remember, we couldn’t be here just from nowhere. It all started through the vision of one man, Prophet T.B. Joshua, who has passed on to glory. I know he is still with us. Even though he is not physically present, he is watching,” he declared, prompting the congregation to wave in honour.

    Pastor Ogong reminded the church of Prophet T.B. Joshua’s humility and famous declaration: ” I have no power of my own.”

    According to him, everything the Prophet did and everything Mrs. Evelyn Joshua and the SCOAN team continue to do, comes from above.

    The pastor emphasised that true gratitude flows from a heart that is genuinely thankful. He assured worshippers that thanksgiving attracts divine blessings.

    The atmosphere remained charged with worship, thanksgiving, and joyful celebration as the service continued, marking yet another memorable moment in the life and legacy of the SCOAN ministry. 

  • Church’ll laugh last amid rising insecurity, Adeboye assures Nigerians

    Church’ll laugh last amid rising insecurity, Adeboye assures Nigerians

    Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome its insecurity challenges, declaring that “the church will laugh last.”

    Speaking on Sunday during his sermon titled, ‘The Master Builder, ’ at the RCCG’s monthly thanksgiving service, Adeboye urged Christians and Nigerians at large to remain calm, assuring them that “evil will not prevail” despite the surge in violent attacks nationwide.

    Addressing millions of worshippers through a broadcast monitored by our correspondent, the respected cleric said the nation’s troubling security situation underscores a fundamental truth—that only God builds and protects His church. He stressed that regardless of the pressure, threats, or intimidation faced by Christian communities; divine protection remains assured, adding that God’s authority surpasses any human or demonic influence.

    Read Also: NGF names Yobe best performing state in primary health care delivery

    Adeboye’s message comes amid repeated attacks on churches across Nigeria in recent years, including kidnappings, shootings and other violent assaults that have left many worshippers injured, displaced, or dead. These incidents have fueled growing fear among congregations and renewed calls for strengthened security and spiritual intervention.

    Despite these challenges, Adeboye maintained that believers must not succumb to fear. “When God opens a door, nobody can shut it. And when God shuts a door, nobody can open it,” he said. “So I have good news for you, my children. Put your mind at rest. The gates of hell shall not prevail. Whether the devil likes it or not, the church is going to laugh last.”

    He affirmed that God’s role as “the Master Builder” guarantees the church’s survival and growth, insisting that Scripture has already spoken victory over Nigeria and its people.

  • Akinnadewo urges Christian, Nigerian leaders to deepen humanitarian efforts

    Akinnadewo urges Christian, Nigerian leaders to deepen humanitarian efforts

    The Bishop of Motalaitu Church of God, Reverend Dr. James Akinnadewo, has called on Christians and leaders across Nigeria to strengthen their commitment to humanitarian service, stressing that righteousness, holiness, and genuine praise are key to enjoying God’s presence and healing.

    He made the appeal during the church’s annual Adoption Thanksgiving service, themed ‘Jehovah the Doctor,’ held at the church headquarters in Oke-Ira, Ogba, Lagos.

    Referencing the biblical passage, “If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves…”, Akinnadewo said God remains the ultimate healer and restorer for individuals and nations, but only when people embrace truth and righteousness.

    “In Nigeria, we know the truth, but we are not practicing the truth,” he said. “If we embrace the truth, it will surely set us free.”

    Speaking on the significance of the Adoption Thanksgiving, Akinnadewo explained that it symbolizes Christ’s sacrifice, which restored humanity to a father–child relationship with God.

    “Jesus laid down His life to give us back our place with the Father. Those who receive Him can boldly cry ‘Abba Father.’ We are no longer in bondage but saved by grace.”

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    He described the spiritual meaning behind the name Motalaitu, noting that it was divinely revealed in 1964 to the church’s founder, St. Isaiah Akinnadewo, symbolizing holiness, blessing, healing, and Christ as the Rock.

    Akinnadewo emphasized that the Church has a responsibility in nation-building. “The government shall be upon His shoulders. It is our duty as Christians to contribute positively to national development. Leaders must do the right thing and serve selflessly.”

    He also reacted to an award presented to him by a South African group during the event, attributing the recognition to the church’s impact through education support, welfare for widows, and humanitarian outreach.

    “By God’s grace, we are taking thousands of youths off the streets—empowering them, training them, sending them to school, and helping them discover their leadership potential,” he said.

    He added that the church funds vocational training, skill acquisition, and education for many young Nigerians, ensuring that no soul is wasted. “We stand in the gap for them—praying, mentoring, and delivering those in darkness into God’s marvelous light.”

    Akinnadewo urged government and national leaders to prioritize the welfare of citizens, especially youths who make up over 70 percent of the population. He stressed the need to support education, vocational skills, and economic opportunities for struggling families.

    “A lot of Nigerians are suffering. Leaders must be sincere and act for the good of the people,” he said.

  • MFM Ilorin Mega Region hosts teenage camp

    MFM Ilorin Mega Region hosts teenage camp

    •  By Ayoyinka Jegede

    Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, South-West 3,  Kwara State Mega Regional Headquarters, Ilorin, Kwara State,  has organised a four-day camp programme for teenagers with a view to capturing them for Christ, helping them discover their purpose,  bringing out their potential, and teaching them how to become impactful future leaders.

     The programme, which educates and enlightens teens on the importance of education and why “Education is not a scam,” but an investment in personal and societal progress, also educates teens on the importance of going to school.

    It revealed that education goes beyond the four walls of the classroom, and the value of acquiring education should not be eroded due to the economic situation.

    Read Also: NGF names Yobe best performing state in primary health care delivery

     In her message, titled  ‘ True Beauty and Godly Character, ‘ the wife of MFM Kwara State Mega Regional Overseer (MRO), Pastor (Mrs.) Deborah  Oyewunmi admonished the teenagers to make Jesus Christ the centre stage of their lives.

     She emphasised that true beauty is a reflection of God’s image, which is being a person of excellent character,  virtues,  humility, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

     She appealed to  teens not to wear revealing dresses that can make them prone to rape, nor should they join get-rich-quick Yahoo or ritualists that go all out to acquire wealth through  deadly, illegal  means, stressed  that evil associations surely  lead to untimely death and wastage at the end

     Oyewunmi applauded the General Overseer of MFM worldwide,  Dr Daniel Kolawole Olukoya and his wife, Dr Folashade Elizabeth Olukoya,  who championed Teenage Ministry over 30 years ago in MFM with a view to nurturing and moulding teenagers into Christlikeness, anchoring their lives on the Lord for eternal life in Christ Jesus.

    She said that MFM  worldwide had been guiding and encouraging teenagers to build and maintain a solid relationship with God through the teaching of the Word of God and an unparalleled prayer lifestyle.

  • Lagos traders urged to serve God in truth

    Lagos traders urged to serve God in truth

    Traders at the Ladipo Market, Mushin, Lagos have been urged to serve God in truth.

     An itinerary  evangelist, Pastor Patt Anyaere gave the advice during the end of year party of Akinwunmi Traders Association, a unit of Ladipo Auto Spare Parts Market.

    He said it was good for Christians to show their identity by working for God. He cited the second leader of the Israelites, Joshua, who vowed to serve God wholeheartedly with his family, saying the great man’s life should be an example to all.

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    The cleric, who said he had spent 30 years working for God, alongside his trading in the same market, submitted that there is reward for those who served God well.

    He warned them against being involved in untoward deals, saying it is a sin to do so.

    He thanked God for sparing their lives in the outgoing year, saying that a great year awaited them in 2026.

  • CCC Ogo Ayo Cathedral celebrates 32nd adult harvest

    CCC Ogo Ayo Cathedral celebrates 32nd adult harvest

    Celestial Church of Christ, Ogo Ayo Cathedral (Shekinah Crusader), will today celebrate its 32nd Adult Harvest & Thanksgiving.

     The theme, ‘Harvest of Appreciation’, inspired by Psalm 100:4, the event will take place at the church auditorium located at Km 2 Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, OPIC, Ogun State, with the service scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. prompt.

    Read Also: NGF names Yobe best performing state in primary health care delivery

    According to a statement from the church, this year’s harvest carries a deeper sense of gratitude, reflecting on God’s preservation, provision, and enduring faithfulness throughout the year. “As one of the most significant annual events in the cathedral’s calendar, the celebration draws both members and the wider community together in worship, thanksgiving, and joyful reflection.”

    The harvest will also feature a rich lineup of gospel ministers and music personalities who are expected to elevate the worship atmosphere.

    Among those set to grace the occasion are Atorise, Shina Peters, Dare Melody, Kayslik, Apekeola, Megga 99, Segun Nabbi, Queen Busola Oke, and Esther Igbekele, alongside several others from the gospel music community.

  • Chapel of Christ the Light, celebrates 2025 harvest thanksgiving service

    Chapel of Christ the Light, celebrates 2025 harvest thanksgiving service

    The Lagos State Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos,  has celebrated its 2025 Harvest Thanksgiving Service, with the theme  “Harvest of Spiritual Overflow”.

    The service brought together government officials, religious leaders, and congregants for a day of gratitude, worship, and spiritual reflection.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who served as the Father of the Day, was represented by the Special Adviser on Christian Affairs, Rev. Adebukola Adeleke. Delivering the Governor’s goodwill message, he expressed profound appreciation to God for the privilege of celebrating another season of thanksgiving.

    He described the Chapel of Christ the Light as a spiritual sanctuary that nurtures faith and inspires service across the state.

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    Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Harvest Thanksgiving goes beyond physical offerings, noting that the essence of the celebration lies in reflecting on the year’s challenges, victories, fulfilled hopes, and unanswered prayers.

    He stressed that symbolic seeds of patience, unity, compassion, and diligence sown throughout the year are just as vital as material contributions.

    The Governor commended the chapel’s clergy and members for sustaining an atmosphere of prayer and spiritual growth.

    He prayed that the coming year would bring peace, abundance, strength, and testimonies to all families.

    He encouraged Lagosians to keep building a state where faith strengthens governance and unity remains a key driver of development.

  • Adegbite applauds Christian pilgrimage as Christian journalists charged to uphold integrity, courage

    Adegbite applauds Christian pilgrimage as Christian journalists charged to uphold integrity, courage

    The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, came alive on Friday, November 21, 2025, as the Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCoN) hosted its 5th Annual Lecture, Anniversary Celebration, and the official unveiling of its new name and logo.

    The event, themed ‘Socioeconomic Benefits of Pilgrimage to the Nigerian State,’ drew government officials, clerics, media leaders, and Christian tourism advocates, marking a major milestone in ACCoN’s mission to professionalise Christian journalism and deepen the link between faith and national development.

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    Delivering the keynote address, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), underscored the spiritual and socioeconomic value of Christian pilgrimages.

    Quoting Psalm 84:5, he described pilgrimage as both a faith-deepening journey and a contributor to national growth. Adegbite broke down the value of pilgrimage into its motives, the activities involved, and the role of tourism in faith-centred travel.

    He emphasized four major national benefits: infrastructure development, opportunities for private travel operators, revenue generation, and the merging of spiritual growth with economic advancement.

    “Pilgrimage offers tangible spiritual and material benefits — from insurance cover to retirement opportunities and even vacation support,” he said.

    Bishop Charles Ighele, Chairman of ACCoN’s Board of Trustees, commended the association for balancing professionalism with fairness in reporting church activities.

    He praised members for “walking a delicate rope — not destroying the Church, yet not ignoring areas needing correction,” and prayed for divine support as ACCoN entered a new phase.

    Earlier in his welcome address, ACCoN President, Adeola Ogunlade described the gathering as a recommitment to the association’s mandate.

    “Our mission as Christian journalists is not merely to report,” he said, “but to edify, clarify, and preserve truth in a world clouded by misinformation.”

    He acknowledged ongoing debates over public funding of pilgrimages but stressed that ACCoN’s focus was on exploring the spiritual, moral, cultural, and economic impacts of pilgrimage rather than fueling controversy.

    Ogunlade also unveiled the association’s future aspirations, including: a permanent secretariat, a Christian media resource library, a conference hall, and an endowment fund for the annual Christian reporters’ award.

    He disclosed that discussions were underway to collaborate with the prestigious Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) to jointly host the awards, a project expected to cost at least ₦1 million.

    With support from the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, the Christian Tourism Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CTPAN), Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Time to Fly, Oasis of Faith, Divine Majesty Ministry, and Unique Travels and Tours, the event highlighted the rising influence of Christian journalism in national conversations.

    As ACCoN marks its fifth anniversary, members say the association is evolving beyond reporting church affairs to contributing meaningfully to policy debates on faith, culture, and tourism.

  • Cleric: Nigerians need spiritual, economic empowerment

    Cleric: Nigerians need spiritual, economic empowerment

    The Planter, Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Adamimogo Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Prophet Sam Olu‑Alo, has said Nigerians need both spiritual and economic empowerment to fulfill God’s purpose.

    Speaking at the grand finale of the “Days of Joy” (Ojo-Ayo), a 12-day prayer and fasting programme held at Adamimogo Jesus City Camp, Lekki/Epe Express Way, Lagos, Prophet Olu-Alo expressed appreciation to God for the grace to use the programme to fulfill God’s purpose in the lives of every participant.

    The cleric highlighted the impact of the programme, which he said includes both spiritual and economic empowerment of over 1000 people in the various areas of endeavours.

    He said he had been engaging in an empowerment programme for the past 15 years and that those empowered have been testifying to the glory of God.

    “The rising spate of insecurity has affected the economy of the country, and Nigerians have been struggling to fulfil their spiritual and economic hopes.

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    “So, as we embarked on the 12-day spiritual journey, we decided to fulfil God’s purposes in the lives of the people. That is the reason for the economic empowerment. More than 1,000 people were empowered in various areas.

    “The most inspiring was the case of a -23 young boy who had lost touch with God for years and was about to end his life when he encountered God’s grace through the ministry. We cannot continue to win souls when believers are jobless and cannot afford the basic luxuries of life.

    “But when people are happy and rich economically, they would also be empowered spiritually. That is why we did what we did in the programme.”

    Olu-Alo urged Christians to continue to pray for Nigeria, unite, and show love within the Christian family.

    He prayed for Nigeria, even as he assured that Nigeria can win the war against banditry if all Christians come together as one big family to fight the scourge.

    One of the beneficiaries of the empowerment programme, Mr.

    Eri-Oluwa Adekanbi said that with the spiritual encounter he had at the Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, God used Prophet Sam Olu-Alo to change his story.

    “As one of the beneficiaries of this end-of-the-year spiritual programme, the story of my ugly past is gone. It is a new chapter of fulfilment and grace. I advise young people of my age to desist from acts that can shorten their lives.

    “They should be focused and believe in the dignity of labour, rather than engaging in yahoo yahoo or other illegal deals,” he said.

  • Women called to integrity, divine purpose at Victory convention

    Women called to integrity, divine purpose at Victory convention

    Women from across Ogun State and beyond gathered at Victory City, Abeokuta, for the annual Women’s Convention of Victory Life Bible Church International, themed ‘Overflow.’

     The spiritually enriching event, featuring worship, teachings, and exhortations, brought together speakers who encouraged women to rediscover their identity, integrity, and God-given purpose.

     At the opening session, the Lead Pastor of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, reminded women of their sacred responsibility as vessels created for divine purpose.

    He urged them to “uphold the integrity that surrounds womanhood,” emphasising that every woman—whether young girl, single lady, mother, or grandmother—must remain committed to God and the kingdom agenda.

     Achudume highlighted the importance of leaving a godly legacy. “No mother desires to see her children suffer. You came into this world with nothing, and you will leave with nothing. Let your children enjoy the fruits of your labour,” he said, urging women to live purposefully and wisely.

     Describing women as “complicated yet extraordinary,” he stressed their immense potential. “Women possess more power than they often realise. They can shape families, communities, and even nations. Women either give life or destroy it,” he said, encouraging them to choose paths that uplift and inspire.

     Guest speaker Pastor Barbra Kiweweisi from Uganda urged women to see themselves through God’s eyes—as beings of strength, purpose, and beauty. “If every woman knows what she carries, she will understand she was not created just to give birth or clean the house, but to change the world,” she said. She advised women to avoid frivolities and instead focus on transforming their environment, noting that human life is both limited and invaluable.

    Reinforcing the theme ‘Overflow,’ Pastor Kiweweisi described it as a life of continuous abundance rooted in God’s promises. Quoting scripture, she affirmed, “God is faithful and has come to give life in abundance.” She encouraged women to embrace their spiritual authority, identity, and influence, reminding them that “when a woman prays, God hears.” She warned against self-doubt and urged women to foster unity, confidence, and mutual upliftment.

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     In her opening remark, the wife of the General Officer of Future-Life Bible Church, Pastor Mrs. Funke Adeyanju charged the women to be good ambassadors of their homes, the church, and the convention. She assured them that the 2025 Women’s Convention promises to be impactful, uplifting, and spiritually renewing for every participant.

     In a vibrant display of gratitude and celebration, women from various districts danced gracefully before the altar, later returning to kneel before Apostle Achudume to receive the father’s blessing. Carrying banners adorned with pictures of the convener, Reverend Fola Achudume, they showcased a colourful blend of culture and devotion. Some wore elegant Igbo attire; others displayed the rich heritage of Egba Adire; many shone in coordinated white and pink garments—creating a beautiful tapestry of unity, culture, and joyful reverence.