29th September 1947, we reflect on the 77th Anniversary of our beloved Church. It was a time to celebrate our history, but also a moment to address the challenges we face. As we look back on the past 77 years, it is clear that individualism has overshadowed our collective ideals, leading to a divided mindset within our Church, as the 1st Lesson of 29th September 2024 (Lamentation 5 vs 1-22) explained our Church situation to us.
When our Church was founded 77 years ago, love and unity were at the forefront of everything we did. The Pastor Founder led us with God’s directives, and the first generation of members worked together towards a common goal. However, as time passed, some members began to prioritize material gain over the values that once united us. This shift in philosophy has led to conflicts and court cases that have hindered our development as a Church.
Today, many dioceses within our Church are divided, with arguments and justifications clouding the true essence of our faith.
CANADA DIOCESE
In the Canada Diocese, for example, there was a tension when the Pastor decided to replace VSE Ogunboye with VSE Adeoba. The change sparked differing opinions and created a rift within the leadership, each leaders as their followers, but a single PASTOR control them.
USA DIOCESE & NATIONAL USA DIOCESE
In the United States, as two heads of diocese govern the affairs of the church. The division within the diocese has emerged some uncontrollable issue, altering the narrative of unity that Celestial Church of Christ represents. Despite this division, a single Pastor maintains control over both factions.
UK DIOCESE & UK/NI DIOCESE
In the United Kingdom, there is a noticeable divide among members regarding their comfort level with transgressions. While some individuals are uneasy with wrongdoing, others feel at ease with it. The diocese serves as the guiding force within the country, yet a single Pastor holds authority over all members.
SOUTH AFRICA DIOCESE & SOUTHERN AFRICA DIOCESE
Within South Africa, those who have made sacrifices for the church find themselves feeling isolated. The diocese is currently grappling with differing perspectives on governance, yet a single Pastor remains in control.
CAMEROON DIOCESE
In Cameroon, a new head of the diocese was recently appointed amidst controversy. The new leader has faced allegations of past criminal activity, while the previous head of the diocese still wields significant power. Despite these challenges, a single Pastor continues to lead the congregation.
BENIN REPUBLIC DIOCESE
The Diocese of Benin Republic is marked by internal power struggles, with various groups vying for leadership over the followers. The true motivations behind these power struggles often revolve around personal gain rather than the spiritual well-being of the church.
NIGERIA DIOCESE
In Nigeria, the diocese has become embroiled in legal battles that have shifted the focus away from its large following. The diocese now seems more concerned with social connections rather than fulfilling its spiritual mission as a Diocese of God.
Despite these challenges, we must remember the foundation on which our Church was built. It is a time for us to come together, to recommit ourselves to the values of love, unity and faith that have guided us for the past 77 years. Let us embrace this anniversary as an opportunity to strengthen our bonds and move forward as a united as a CHURCH.
