The release of a new official template by the Nigeria Diocese of Celestial Church of Christ has generated discussions among members and observers of the Church, particularly over the omission of the names of some former spiritual leaders who played significant roles in the history of the Church.
As preparations intensify for the installation of Rt. Rev. Pastor Victor Adekunle Lawal, JP scheduled for 27th June 2026, the official Facebook page of the Nigeria Diocese unveiled a standardized template intended for use in harvest celebrations, church programmes, anniversaries, and other official events within the Diocese.
According to Prophet Samuel Ayowunmi Arole, Media Director of the Nigeria Diocese, the template received the approval of the incoming Pastor, Rt. Rev. Prophet Victor Adekunle Lawal. The initiative is aimed at ensuring uniformity and consistency in official publications and event materials across the Diocese.
However, the template has attracted attention due to the absence of the names of former Pastors and Spiritual Heads who succeeded the Founder and contributed significantly to the growth and development of the Church. Notably omitted are:
Late Rev. Alexander Abiodun Bada
Late Rev. Pastor Jesse
Late Rev. Pastor Suru Maforikan
The template, as released, recognizes the following spiritual leaders:
Rev. S.B. Kosoko – International Headquarters Representative
Rev. M.A. Odewenwa – International Headquarters Representative
Rt. Rev. Prophet Victor Adekunle Lawal, JP – Pastor and Spiritual Head, CCC Worldwide
Rt. Rev. Beni Omoge – Pastor and Supreme Head, CCC Worldwide (1950–2026)
Rev. Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa – Pastor, Prophet, Founder, CCC Worldwide (1909–1985)
The omission has prompted questions among some members regarding the criteria used in designing the template and whether the decision represents a new administrative direction or simply a design preference. As of the time of filing this report, the Media Directorate has not provided any official explanation regarding the exclusion of the names of Pastors Bada, Jesse, and Maforikan.
Church historians and long-standing members have often acknowledged the contributions of these former leaders in preserving and expanding the Celestial Church of Christ after the transition of leadership following the passing of the Founder, Rev. S.B.J. Oshoffa. Their administrations witnessed significant developments in evangelism, church administration, infrastructure expansion, and international growth.
While the newly released template appears to reflect the current leadership structure and the evolving direction of the Nigeria Diocese, many members are awaiting further clarification from the appropriate authorities to better understand the rationale behind the omissions.
As the Church prepares for the historic installation of Rt. Rev. Pastor Victor Adekunle Lawal, attention remains focused on how the new administration will balance institutional continuity, historical recognition, and its vision for the future of Celestial Church of Christ Worldwide.
“History remains an essential part of identity, and how institutions remember their past often shapes how future generations understand their heritage.”
