The opening of the Peace Convention commenced with a musical interlude after which Pastor Oluwarinu Femi (RP, Region 18), was introduced as the general moderator for Day 1 to Day 4 (August 5th-8th) Following this, Pastor Oluwarinu introduced Pastor C.O. Abe, the Regional Pastor for Region 10, as the moderator for Day 1. The choir then led the attendees in singing hymn 294, “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven.”
The Bible reading was taken from Psalm 136, anchored by Deaconess Kemi Omowunmi. The moderator led a prayer of thanksgiving for divine protection since the last convention. The General Overseer, Pastor Dr. E.O. Abina, declared the convention officially open and gave the keynote address. After this, the CEU (Child Evangelism Unit) made their usual yearly display, followed by Evang. Emmanuel Shalom who delivered a short charge.
Pastor Kola Kudoro, the District Pastor for Ogijo District, then took the thanksgiving offering. The choir presented a musical selection, after which Pastor J.J. Udofa, the Regional Pastor for Region 22 and the Assistant General Overseer (Finance Advisory) delivered the opening message titled “Peace, Be Still!” referring to Mark 4:35-41, Isaiah 9:6, and John 16:33. In his message, he explained that peace signifies the absence of turbulence and commotion, a state where everything operates smoothly.
He assured the audience that just as Jesus calmed the storm, He would also calm the storms in their lives. Pastor Udofa described peace as an inner confidence and assurance that all is well in Christ Jesus, even amid turbulence, emphasizing that wherever Jesus is present, there will be peace. He noted that the storms of life which hinders progress, originates from the devil, while the world brings turbulence, frustration, and economic hardship, but Jesus offers peace.
He emphasized that no human can provide true peace, stating that money, education, position, and connections cannot lead to peace. He concluded that as long as Jesus is aboard one’s life, the storms will not cause harm. He emphasized that those seeking peace must serve God. Pastor Udofa outlined several elements that bring peace, starting with the need to know Jesus, distinguishing knowing Jesus from merely knowing about Him. He highlighted the importance of being passionate about the Word of God, explaining that the Word acts as a channel through which peace flows just as water flowing through a pipe and that there is a Word of God relevant to every storm. He also stressed the necessity of being addicted to prayer.
After the message, Pastor Adekunle David gave the announcements, and Pastor Michael Adeogun concluded the event with a closing prayer and benediction.
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