The Church and the Men came together in celebration on the third weekend of November in what could be termed as a wonderful coincidence. The church had begun her annual family weekend (themed – SUSTAINING A CHRISTIAN FAMILY IN A TIME LIKE THIS) a little earlier on Thursday, November 15th when the children and teenagers conducted the Faith Clinic Service. Meanwhile, the City of Refuge Men commenced their annual convention (themed – THE MIGHTY MAN OF VALOR) on Saturday, November 17th with an unprecedented cultural dinner.
The dinner was an opportunity for couples in the church to unwind as they were well delighted with gentle music and fun games. In this relaxed atmosphere, Pastor Segun Adeyanju, a consultant with a mission to build and shape the lives of individuals and organizations, was presented alongside his wife as the guest speakers of the event.
The following Sunday was a great day. The church was well decorated as she hosted the grand finale of two major events in a combined thanksgiving service. The men took up the responsibility of the choir for the day, while the children gave outstanding offhand bible recitations. The teenagers presented an awesome dance choreography and the youth drama gave a brilliant ministration. While the Elders gave a special rendition and cash gift to the church.
The Guest minister for the day was Pastor Timothy Olaniyan, the current Provincial Pastor of RCCG Dominion Cathedral, Lagos Province 12. Interestingly, this was not Pastor Olaniyan’s first visit to City of Refuge (he had previously visited two years ago). Our father-in-the-Lord, Pastor Ola Olukoyede introduced to the congregation and received Pastor Olaniyan on the altar.
Pastor Olaniyan opened by lauding Pastor Ola and the church for the progress made. Afterwards, he led a powerful worship session before preaching his message titled MEN OF VALOR. He took the bible text from Judges 6:12 and went on to describe who a man of valor was. He concluded his sermon by giving biblical examples of men and women of valor such as Deborah, Esther, David, Samuel and Jesus.
Afterwards, the thanksgiving service went into overdrive with the congregation fully immersed in the joyful atmosphere. It was a memorable and absolutely wonderful service.