By Samuel Olamide Osifuye
Christ Apostolic Church Akinyele Region marked its 6th anniversary on Saturday, 19th October, 2024, at the CAC General Headquarters in Lagos. The celebration, themed “Spiritual Gifts and Power,” attracted numerous ministers and church members, creating an atmosphere of worship and reflection.
The event featured an enlightening sermon delivered by the President, CAC Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor S.O. Oladele, titled “Aaron’s Rod That Budded,” drawing from Numbers 17. Pastor Oladele emphasized the importance of discernment when judging leaders, pointing out that even Moses, described by God as the humblest of men, faced accusations of pride and usurpation of authority.
“Leaders can be wrongly or falsely accused,” Pastor Oladele warned, urging the congregation to pray for their leaders rather than engage in rebellion or dissent. He recounted the story of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, who rebelled against Moses and Aaron, resulting in divine punishment and significant loss of life among the Israelites.
Pastor Oladele underscored the significance of Aaron’s budding rod, symbolizing the priesthood and the presence of life, beauty, and fruitfulness in ministry. “God desires to see the budding, blossoming, and fruitfulness in our spiritual lives,” he said, reinforcing the message that spiritual gifts should be complemented by a life of holiness and beauty.
In a heartfelt welcome address earlier delivered by the Superintendent, Akinyele Region, Pastor S.A. Adedayo expressed profound gratitude to God for the past 365 days of blessings and growth.
He reflected on the support and dedication of the region’s ministers and members, acknowledging their collective efforts toward the overall growth and development of the church. He emphasized that their unwavering commitment has played a crucial role in advancing the mission of the church.
Challenging a common misconception, the Clergy asserted that spiritual gifts are not mere reflections of natural talent or genetic predispositions. “Spiritual gifts are activated by God Himself at specific times,” he declared, highlighting their divine origin and purpose. He elaborated on the significance of these gifts, describing them as special abilities bestowed by the Holy Spirit to empower believers in building the body of Christ and furthering God’s kingdom on Earth.
“The gifts we receive are not just talents we are born with or skills we develop over time,” he explained. “They are supernatural empowerments that transcend our human capacity.” Drawing from scripture, he referenced 1 Peter 4:10, underscoring that these gifts are entrusted to us as managers, meant to be used for the glory of God and the benefit of others.
Pastor Adedayo cautioned against the folly of comparing spiritual gifts, stating, “It would be a great mistake to compare gifts, as each serves a unique purpose in God’s plan.” He reminded attendees that true spiritual power, as articulated in 2 Timothy 1:7, is anchored in God’s love, reinforcing the importance of humility and service in exercising these gifts.
He further noted that the gifts are intended to redirect attention away from ourselves and toward God, echoing the words of John 15:15. “Our mission is to pass His grace to those around us,” he affirmed, urging all to embrace their gifts as instruments of divine purpose.
The anniversary celebration also included musical performances by the Regional Choir and the Regional Good Women Choir, uplifting the congregation with songs. Additionally, the new regional choir executives were announced, with Elder Sesan Taiwo appointed as the new Regional Music Director.
The gathering was graced by notable figures including Pastor S.O. Oladele and his wife, Mrs. Susanne Oladele; General Secretary, CAC Nigeria & Overseas, Pastor Emmanuel Mapur, and his wife, Mrs. Fidelia Mapur; Secretary, Akinyele Region, & Somolu DCC Superintendent, Pastor E.O.O Oyedeji; Chairman Anniversary Planning Committee, & Itire DCC Superintendent, Pastor Gideo Oladokun; Special Assistant to the President, Pastor T.D. Asokeji. DCC, Zonal and District Superintendents from across the region were also in attendance, among many others.
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