In the history of Celestial Church of Christ, especially within the South-South and South-East regions of Nigeria, few names resonate with grace, endurance, and spiritual authority like Mother Celestial Esther Oviawe, fondly celebrated as Mama CELE. Her journey is not just a story of a woman who found faith; it is the testimony of a matriarch who became a pillar, a prophetic voice, and a spiritual backbone among God’s people.
When Celestial Church of Christ began to take root across the South-South and South-East, the acceptance of the faith of salvation required courage and conviction. Many who embraced the light of CCC in those early days did so under difficult circumstances, facing cultural resistance, spiritual battles, and societal doubt.
Yet Mama CELE stood firm not as a passive believer, but as an active vessel chosen by God. She was among the earliest carriers of the divine flame that helped establish CCC within Benin City and beyond. Her faith became a point of reference, her presence a source of stability, and her life an embodiment of the Church’s spiritual identity.
Mother Celestial Esther Oviawe
One of the outstanding graces upon Mother Celestial Esther Oviawe is her rare prophetic gift. Through divine revelation, the Holy Spirit equipped her with messages, warnings, spiritual directions, and instructions that shaped the lives of individuals and strengthened the Church.
Her son! VSE Emmanuel Oviawe (General) Shepherd of CCC New Etete Parish, Benin City, Edo State
Her voice in the spiritual realm became a resounding trumpet of truth, one that members respected, feared, and honoured. The accuracy of her visions and the purity of her messages earned her a reputation as a trustworthy prophetic mother whose words were never taken lightly. Within the Benin metropolis, her prophetic ministry pioneered clarity, healing, restoration, and deliverance blessing countless homes and guiding many souls back to God.
Beyond prophecy, Mama CELE is a mother in every sense of the word. Her home, her hands, and her heart have nurtured generations of worshippers. She has laid foundations that continue to influence the growth of CCC in Edo State, shaping leaders, mentoring younger women, and providing counsel that carries divine weight. Her commitment to the doctrines, holiness, and worship life of CCC remains unwavering. Even today, she continues to build the instincts of what CCC represents, reminding the faithful that genuine spirituality is rooted in obedience, purity, humility, and absolute trust in God.
Among her visible legacies is her son,
Venerable Superior Evangelist Emmanuel Oviawe (General),
the Shepherd of CCC New Etete Parish, Benin City, Edo State. His ministry, discipline, and dedication are clear reflections of the godly foundation laid by his mother. He stands today as one of the respected shepherds in the region, bearing fruits from the seeds Mama CELE planted with patience and prayer. Her life continues to remind the Church that women are not just supporters but co-builders of God’s kingdom, chosen vessels through whom the Holy Spirit manifests His wonders.
Mother Celestial Esther Oviawe’s journey is a celebration of faith, a chronicle of divine calling, and a legacy of unwavering devotion. As the CCC continues to grow across Nigeria and beyond, her impact remains indelible echoing in the testimonies of those she led, inspired, and guided.
She is indeed a Symbolic Woman in Celestial Church of Christ, a beacon of light whose footsteps future generations will continue to follow.
Halleluyah!
