The auditorium of Victory Life Bible Church (VLBC) International was at the weekend filled up, as dignitaries and the congregation gathered to celebrate the life of Rev. Fola Achudume.
The thanksgiving service marked the end of series of events held in honour of the late pastor, the wife of the church’s Lead Pastor, Apostle Lawrence Achudume.
Her death had sparked a deep sense of reflection and unity within the church and wider community. Pastor Simeon Agbolabori of the Chapel of Restoration, in his sermon, encouraged the congregation to look beyond the pain of death and embrace the Christian belief in life after death, urging the audience to remain hopeful.
He told them that death is merely a transition to eternal life.
Agbolabori said: “Don’t sorrow as those who have no hope. Be hopeful, as there is indeed life after death.
‘’This is the essential foundation of our Christian faith.”
The service served as a reminder of Rev. Achudume’s profound legacy, with Pastor Agbolabori saying her passing on was not a result of any weakness in the church, but a calling from God.
Speakers, who knew Rev. Achudume, including her childhood friends, mentees and fellow clerics, shared heartfelt eulogies.
Mr. Efe Achudume, Prof. Eniola Fabusoro and her sister and Mrs. Yetunde Osinloju described her as a person of immense kindness and unwavering faith.
They said her life was marked by grace and compassion, and her influence was felt far beyond the walls of the church.
The widower, Apostle Achudume, led the congregation in a powerful declaration of faith with a word of conviction and hope, saying: “I am not mourning. I am rejoicing in the Lord for an eventful life well spent.”
He added: “No one can question God’s actions. He owes no one any explanation. No matter your status, needs, heart desires, just follow Him as Rev. Fola did. You can only end well and gloriously if you follow God.”
Tributes from array of dignitaries were acknowledged, including that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife, Bola, as well as top religious leaders like Mummy Folu Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and Rev. Francis Oke.
Others included His Eminence Papa Ayo Oritsejafor, Archbishop Sam Amaga and several bishops and leaders of denominations. They all paid tributes to Rev. Achudume for the legacies she left.
To enrich the atmosphere of worship, Mrs. Yetunde Osinloju, Lilian Nkeji and Ayan Jesu led the congregation in a soulful praise and worship session.
