It was a glorious moment in the life of members of First Baptist Church, Akure, Ondo State capital as they celebrated God’s faithfulness in their lives for seventy years (70) of existence in the gospel exploits in Akure and it environs.
The anniversary which was a week long celebration, at the grand finale brought together dignitaries across the country which includes; the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev’d (Dr) Israel Adelani Akanji, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the Deji of Akure land, Rev’d (Dr) Saturday Ajayi Obateru, President of the Ondo State Baptist Conference, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, Former Commissioner of information, Ondo State, Rev’d (Dr) John Ayo Oladapo, chairman Christian Association of Nigeria, Ondo State, Rev’d Tijani Timothy, Moderator Akure central Baptist Association, among others.
In his speech, delivered by Hon. Femi Fadairo on behalf of Senator Ajayi Boroffice, described First Baptist Church as a church who believes in the word of God and baptism of the believers by immersion. He urged the church of God to continue to live up to God’s standard at a time when the nation is facing different challenges.
Rev’d (Dr) Israel Akanji, President, Nigerian Baptist Convention, stated in his sermon titled; “A double portion” from the text, psalm 126 that, the Israelites continually asking for greater things despite God’s faithfulness in their lives. He encouraged the congregation to continue asking God for new things. “Even if God has done something for you, God is still expecting you to ask more according to His words”.
Speaking at the anniversary, Arakunrin Akeredolu, the Executive Governor of Ondo State who was ably represented by Rev Enoch Adeleke, assistant chaplain, Government house chapel, described First Baptist Church as one of the most spiritual church in Akure noted for fulfilling the divine mandate of the church.
Meanwhile, in a bid to having a befitting place of worship, the church had concluded in building a new auditorium that will have enough space for believers to worship with a modern parking space as they seek for five hundred million naira (#500,000,000) fund raising for the auditorium.
Deacon Olusegun Egbedele, the Chairman anniversary planning committee has called on individuals and members of the church to collectively work together in making sure the proposed new auditorium is achieved. He appreciated all the invited guests and the church members for the success of the anniversary.
Responding, on what is the expectation of the church in financing the building of the new church auditorium, Deacon Egbedele said “our hope is solely on God who is the owner of the church and by His grace and with the help of the children of God, the building will be completed”.
Speaking with platinum TV correspondent shortly after the anniversary, Rev’d (Dr) Ige Olumuyiwa who is the church pastor, expressed his happiness for the success of the seventy years anniversary. He encouraged the church members to contribute tangibly with a view to achieving the goal of building a new church auditorium.
Adelanke Akinmoladun reporting for platinum TV
