Dateline: Sunday May 5, 2024 and the ceremony was the investiture of and thanksgiving service of Assistant Venerable Superintendent Evangelist Joseph Oluranti Ogunremi as Church Patron of Celestial Church of Christ (CCC).
Penpushing reports that the venue which is Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Ibara Cathedral situated in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital was full to capacity by guests, church members and other well-wishers who came to be part of the epoch-making events.
The service was led by Evangelist Adebayo Adekunle, who is the Parish Council Chairman and kicked-off with a prayer and followed with processional hymn, as well as jingling of the bell, creed, music melody by the church choir and sermon by Spiritual Head of the Church.
Penpushing further reports that the first lesson from 2 Kings: 7 verse 1-20 was read by Evangelist Gbenga Adebayo, followed with second lesson by Evangelist Ebenezer Osofa from the book of Philippians 4:10-20, as well as recessional hymn by the Model Choir.
The highlight of the ceremony which was the installation of Ogunremi as Baba Ijo (Patron of the Church) elevated the activities of the day, as guests, church members and other personalities embarked on thunderous religious shout when the recipient was called out
Penpushing reports that the ceremony had in attendance number of dignitaries which include former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former Deputy of Ogun State Alhaja Salimot Badru, Ambassador Sarafa Ishola, Chief Joju Fadairo and Alhaji Nojeem
The other notable personalities include Osile Oke-Ona, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso with his three wives, Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji (Founder Penpushing Media), Hon Gboyega Isiaka, Chief Nuru Olaleye, Alhaji Moroof Ajisegiri, Apostle Olusesi Obateye, Chief (Mrs) Iyabo Apampa and Yemi Adelani among others
Penpushing also reports that there were numerous felicitations from guests and well wishers in appreciating and praising the newly installed patron of the church, praying to God in giving him wisdom for the new role.
The former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo in a congratulatory letter to the new patron of the church, said he (Obasanjo) was delighted to receive news of his (Ogunremi) investiture by the parish council and the entire members of the Celestial Church of Christ, Ibara, Cathedral, Abeokuta
‘The honour thus bestowed on you by the church is, without doubt, in recognition of the immense devotion and commitment to the service of God which have been the hallmarks of your career in the church over the years’, Obasano wrote
‘Your service to God is well complemented with your service to humanity. I will urge you to remain what you have always been honest, dedicated, peace-loving, committed. God fearing and an Apostle of justice, equity, love, righteousness and fairness everywhere. We all rejoice and share with you in the honour of your entry into the special elite class of Baba Ijo. I wish you many more years of fruitful labour in our Lord’s vineyard’, he added
Penpushing reports that the programme shortly after the installation and end of the service was moved to a reception which equally took place within the church premises, at a well decorated venue, where guests were treated to sumptuous menu and drinks.
The Baba Ijo in his acceptance speech appreciated the church for the honour bestowed on him, adding that he was fully prepared to embrace the role and responsibility, with a pledge that he would commit himself wholeheartedly to serve with unwavering dedication and love.
‘As your patron, I am acutely aware of the profound impact that our church has on the lives of its members, wider CCC Worldwide, and our society at large. Our church, no doubt, is a beacon of hope, sanctuary of peace and a bastion of love in a world often besieged by turmoil and division’, he stated
‘But am convinced together, we have the power to spread kindness, compassion, love and understanding to all who seek solace within our walls. I shall remain committed to working hand in hand with the parish council’, Ogunremi added
‘The clergy, elders, leaders, various segments and volunteers to ensure that our church continues to thrive and flourish and I strongly believe that through our collective efforts, we can nurture spiritual growth, foster a sense of belonging, and extend a helping hand to those in need. I pray that may Almighty God continue to guide, guard us all the enablement that will make us vessel of peace, progress, and outstanding achievement of our church’ he emphasised
Penpushing further reports that the planning committee members of the ceremony in appreciation said they were glad to receive guests and other well-wishers who came from far and near to be part of the history making events
‘’The Planning Committee for this investiture hereby express profound gratitude to all guests for your presence and to various individuals who has contributed in one way to the success of this investiture ceremony, our prayer is that, may God continue to shower His blessings on you and enlarge your coast’
‘We are glad to receive you and to reassure you that CCC Ibara Cathedral is always home to you all and we shall be ready and willing to receive you again in future. We wish you safe trip back to your various destinations. Thanks and God bless’, the committee stated
FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email penpushing@yahoo.com
