Challenges make the man or woman as the case might be.
One man who understands the true meaning of the above line is Pastor Idowu Iluyomade.
The former senior pastor of the City of David Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), went through many challenges when he was suspended as the head of the parish.
Iluyomade was suspended by the Redeemed Cristian Church of God (RCCG) highest body following his wife, Siju’s lavish 60th birthday party a few weeks after a prominent member of the RCCG City of David Parish and key financier, Herbert Wigwe, his wife Chizoba, his son Chizi and several others died in a helicopter crash in California, United States on February 9.
While on suspension, it was mixed feelings for the couple as outsiders analyzed the situation. Many were quick to say that Pastor Enoch Adeboye wanted to replace Iluyomade with his son due to the vibrancy of the parish. Some opined that the RCCG had the habit of sidelining influential Pastors. Others, however, criticised the couple for their perceived extravagant lifestyle, suggesting going ahead with the party despite such an unfortunate situation was insensitive.
Following his suspension, the man resigned from office and simply went underground for a while, but continued to keep in touch with his core loyalists, while sending messages on his social media, giving the notion that something was about to come out from his stables, a church devoid of the politics and control of the RCCG.
With the New Year 2025, Iluyomade intensified the messages he was sending on his social media handles. One such message was titled: “Welcome to 2025: !…The Year of the Lord’s Presence. Walk confidently, for He promises, ‘I will lead you…”
On Sunday, January 19, Iluyomade finally made his big comeback, as he launched his church named ‘The Family Fellowship’.
A day prior, Saturday, January 18, Iluyomade had sent out a public invitation to announce the inaugural service of his church.
“The Family Fellowship specially invites you. Join us tomorrow for a special time in the Lord’s presence. Promises to be a great experience. 9:00 am Civic Centre, Plot GA 1, Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, Victoria Island. Tag someone that shouldn’t miss this!” the invitation stated.
True to his invitation, the following day, a video of the service surfaced online with Pastor Iluyomade seen with his wife and some members of the congregation as they danced and celebrated during the Thanksgiving Service.
During the inaugural service, Iluyomade urged the congregation to rededicate their lives to God and commemorate their spiritual rebirth as a “second birthday.”
The event featured singing and dancing, as friends, families, and loyalists from their time at RCCG joined them in celebration.
Post Views: 11
