By Sam Akadoro - Sapele
The Christian bible narrates that when Jesus Christ was finally leaving his disciples (the church), he told them to occupy till he returns. The manner of occupation was also sternly laid down: The wise should win souls. It is therefore no wonder today that among fundamental principles churches hold dear is the responsibility of engaging in evangelism and holding of crusades, not just in adherence to Christ’s command but as a prerequisite to church growth and expansion.
This was the case in Delta State, when the New Glory Revival Ministry Effurun held a crusade tagged, ’Jesus is the way,’ rounding it off with a thanksgiving service at the church headquarters in Effurun.
Despite heavy rains, that miraculously did not fall at the crusade venue, Alegbo Primary School, Effurun, the three-day event witnessed the winning of at least 200 souls to Christ, baptism of new converts that gave their lives to Christ at the crusade, and ordination of new ministers to pioneer the various branches of the ministry.
Indeed, like some of the congregation at the occasion would later comment, it was an event that would remain indelible in their memories in time to come, particularly for the powerful teachings during the three days.
While thanking God for the success of the programme, the ministry’s General Overseer, Evangelist S. U. Ayanyen, urged the congregation to hold tight to and practise the teachings they had received, so their ways could prosper.
Warning against corrupt practices including the act of fornication, the minister, buttressing his point from John 3:1 stated: “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of spirit is spirit,” and urged the avoidance of anything ungodly and for all Christians to display the true colours of Christ by being hospitable at all times.
Evangelist Ayanyen also congratulated the new converts who gave their lives to Christ during the crusade and advised them against sin and renouncing of all evil. “You are now children of God and you should key into the word of God,” the General Overseer said, pointing out that “the word of God brings light upon us.”
He equally urged old members of the ministry to put on new garments.
The General Overseer, Evang S.U. Ayanyen, who has been in the business of soul winning since 1994 when he came to Effurun, also revealed plans by the ministry to establish more churches within and outside Uvwie, and also to ordain new ministers to pioneer the work.
While ordaining and appointing the new ministers which included Mr Godspower Ogbemudia, Pastor Lucky, John Whiskel, Pastor Oghenevwiare among others, the general overseer advised them about the code of conduct guiding the ministry, urging them to pursue their education to any height they wish.
“Any one that wants to be a minister of the gospel must not stop educating himself, if you want to get your Ph.D. no problem.”
The newly ordained ministers, in their response, expressed happiness over their new assignment, saying that it’s a thing of joy to evangelise and bring people into the kingdom of God. “Preaching the word without favoritism or bias is our primary aim and moving the work of God to the next height.”
High point of the thanksgiving/ordination service was the celebration of newly ordained ministers by the huge congregation after the General Overseer decorated them. Also prayer session was raised for Nigeria and her leaders. Other prayers raised included prayer against death, fear, for pregnant women and employment as well as prayer for the Revival Ministry.
Thereafter, the General Overseer baptised over 200 people that gave their lives to Christ during the crusade at Effurun river.