Arise 2012 by Peter Ikuobase

Contents 4 5 8

18 88 104 105 107

Editorial The OFNC in brief OFNC National Conference August 2012 Chairman’s Welcome Address OFNC People Profiles 18-30 Group OFNC Organization Administrative Structure Area Secretaries Prayer Diary: September 2012 to August 2013

FEATURES 6 Sleeping Giant Arise 20 DR IFE AKINTUNDE Am I disabled? 24 30 36 47 56 62 70 77 85 86

Potential - What Are You Looking For To Build a Multinational Church Boko Haram - Clear and Present Danger Light and darkness; there is a clear difference ... or is there? The Olympic Phenomena... A public revelation of champions! Faith in the Workplace: Silent Witness or Vocal Presence The Blessing of the Fathers Staying Active Don’t Leave The Door Open For The Enemy Modesty: A Forgotten Virtue?

God and the PhD: A tale of two impossibilities

EVENTS 10 National Conference 2012 40 Nigeria Prays – Prayer Rally in London 2012 82 OFNC Women’s National Conference 90 Ablaze : 18 – 30’s Summer Barbeque 2012 95 OFNC Youth Conference 2012 97 2012 Children's Variety Programme INTERVIEWS 12 DR ALBERT OKOYE OFNC National Chairman Dressed For Service 26 32 46 50 58

REVD. CANON BEN ENWUCHOLA, Nigerian Chaplain DR JONATHAN OLOYEDE National Day of Prayer Wembley APOSTLE ALFRED WILLIAMS Man of Vision SHOLA AMEOBI Walking in His Light JOHN AND MARGARET AMEOBI Role Models Modelling for the next generation

66 76

ADE OMOOBA Community Spirit - Find, Fit, Function and Fruitful REVEREND DR PAUL JINADU 50 years in ministry

POEMS 76 The Kiss Of Life That I May Know You So Wonderful OFNC MINISTRIES 78 MICHAEL IBEMESI OFNC Men’s Leader 80 DR BOLA KEHINDE OFNC National Women's Coordinator 94 MARTIN OGUZIE Youth Coodinator 96 DUPE FAGBENRO National Children's Coordinator OFNC YOUTH MAGAZINE 98 OFNC Bursary Awards 100 Woman By Patience Abladey 101 Walking In His Light Faith 102 Know yourself 103 Review of ‘The Price of Life’

Editorial tEam Chief Editor: mr PEtEr ikuobasE Editors:dr (mrs) toyin baikiE, dr (mrs) tijEsu afolabi, mrs liz ikuobasE, mrs ChiChi EruChalu, ms Chiamaka EChEta, dr folukE iPinyomi, miss tEri silo silo. Youth Editor: aka okoyE Cover Design: aCaCia dEsign Design: Xandy daEhnhardt Print: first Call mEdia dEsign & Publishing ltd Photography: sEan Elliott, suE jordan, grand CEntral, martin oguziE Publisher: ovErsEas fEllowshiP of nigErian Christians (ofnC). Email: arise@ofnc.org.uk Editor Email: peter.ikuobase@ofnc.org.uk Website: www.ofnc.org.uk CoPyright notiCE arise is published by the ofnC, a registered charity in the united kingdom (Charity registration no. 11267664). no part of this publication may be produced in any form without the written permission of the Chief Editor. disClaimEr. any material published in arise reﬂects the personal view of the contributor and does not constitute an endorsement of such views by the ofnC. all comments, enquiries, praise or otherwise regarding each item should be directed to the contributor through the Chief Editor by email: arise@ofnc.org.uk. Name and Registered Head Oﬃce: TOP House, Shawheath Close, Manchester M15 4BQ.

Editorial

, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. isaiah 60:1(niv)

y prayer is that as you read Issue 21 of Arise you will be inspired to walk in the light of Jesus and let his glory appear over you. I pray that something you read in this edition will help you walk closer to Him. If you do not know the Lord Jesus, I hope that you will meet Him through the writings, ideas and lives of His disciples who have contributed to this work.

Regular readers will notice that in this issue of Arise we have built on the excellence of previous editions with a stunning new design and layout. It is also considerably larger than the last edition. The content of this edition was prayerfully selected to convey the OFNC’s vision of being the platform for building unity of the Nigerian Church in Diaspora on the road to revival. Our select interviews of leaders within the OFNC and in the wider Nigerian Christian community in the UK have broadened our perspective on the universal Church and the road to a revival in the UK. As you read this edition of Arise, you will gain insight into the challenges faced by the church today and the key role of ethnic minorities in preserving traditional Christian beliefs and keeping the fires of Christianity burning in this age. Dr Albert Okoye talks expansively about the OFNC and its strategic vision – watch out for the word picture of an oak as you read. Newcastle United striker, Shola Ameobi shares his experience of growing up in a devoted Christian family passionate about the OFNC and how it has shaped and developed his own faith – his testimony is remarkable. Shola’s parents, Pastor John and Margaret, long-time OFNC stalwarts, share some insights on dealing with the challenges of bringing up children in a modern society. We learn from them how to be godly role models. Canon Ben Enwuchola opens the window on work of the Nigerian Chaplaincy in the Nigerian Community in Diaspora. Dr Jonathan Oloyede shares his thoughts on the impact of the

National Day of Prayer in Wembley Stadium on 29th September 2012. Ade Omooba speaks about the church finding its place in the community – as Christians, we need to purify our motives and connect with our communities by expressing the love of Christ through selfless service. Apostle Alfred Williams shares his incredible testimony and testifies to the miraculous power of God working in his life and ministry. Reverend Paul Jinadu who had recently celebrated 50 years in ministry shares his insights on changes in the church over last 50 years and the pathway to unity in the Nigerian Church in Diaspora. You will read updates from the ministry leaders in the OFNC. Dr Bola Kehinde explains the work of the Women’s Ministry. Mike Ibemesi opens the door to the Men’s Fellowship, Dr. Tijesu Afolabi writes about the 18 – 30s group. We also feature interviews of Martin Oguzie, Youth Ministry leader and Dupe Fagbenro, the Children’s Coordinator. In Issue 21 of Arise, you will also find items of general interest, teaching articles, poetry and features on sports and lifestyle for your edification and enjoyment. Reverend David Shosanya likens the OFNC to a sleeping giant that is beginning to Arise and cheers the fellowship on as it steps into a strategic role in the spiritual life of the UK. Dr Ife Akintunde asks us a challenging question about disability in his heart-warming article. His question is timely, given that many people’s pre-conceptions about disability have been shaken by the recently concluded Paralympics in London 2012. Kiri Kankhwende examines impact of the violence perpetrated by Boko Haram in Northern Nigeria. Dr Victor Nwegbu reflects on the lessons learnt from the Summer Olympics 2012 about the making of champions. Dr Toyin Baikie shares the results of a survey of medical practitioner’s views about sharing their faith in the workplace in the light of current anti-Christian trends in public policy.

e OFNC in brief he ofnC is a registered charity which was set up to encourage and develop nigerian Christians, as well as provide a platform for unity that rises above denominational and cultural divides. its motto, “everyone a faithful disciple of Christ” gives a clear idea of our aim to ensure that whatever church you go to, every member should be committed, active and engaged in winning souls and encouraging believers.

the ofnC has a local, national and international dimension. at the local level, the nearly 20 branches organise activities, aimed at connecting with its members and with the various local churches in each branch. nationally, the fellowship is working with several nigerian and non-nigerian Christian leaders to promote unity and increase awareness of the many prayer points around nigerians, both in the country and in the diaspora. we have several national ministries that bring us together as men, women, 18-30s, youth and children. whoever you are, i am sure you can fit into one of these activities; you’ll find out more about the programmes of these ministries in this year’s arise. outside the uk, the fellowship works with leading Christian organisations in

nigeria, such as the Christian medical and dental association of nigeria, and the nigerian fellowship of Evangelical students. and if you think that’s all we do internationally, the ofnC recently sent a team to hungary to equip nigerian Christians there. the great thing about the fellowship is that although there are many members who are pastors and heads of churches, it is not a church. it is a fellowship where Christians from all walks of life: doctors, academics, business people, it experts and others can participate in the leadership at all levels. most people are in office by election. but under the elected officers are others who are in place because of their specific gifting, and without which the fellowship cannot run effectively. we have worshippers, stewards, prayer warriors, website experts, administrators, and people who help swell numbers at our events, and so much more. Please feel free to share your gifting with whichever work you feel called to join. to finish, here’s another great thing about the ofnC. we hear too many negative stories about nigeria and nigerians. but in the ofnC, we love god and believe that by obeying him, we can be different, we can portray the positive about nigeria and keep praying for the kind of change that only god can bring. that’s what we’re about, and that’s why we’d like all to be a part of what we’re doing. god bless you. Dr Ife Akintunde, OFNC National Publicity Secretary

God bless you as you read. Peter Ikuobase

Sleeping Giant

ARISE By Rev David Shosanya

n fact, some years ago i was asked to address the council of the african & Caribbean evangelical alliance (aCEa) along with the then Chief Executive of Christian research agency, dr. Peter brierly. while i addressed the issue of the Existential & theological Challenges facing african & Caribbean Church leaders, dr. brierly spoke about the strategic importance of black Churches. much of what he addressed in his presentation is available in his book “Pulling out of the nose dive”, a summary of the then most recent findings carried out by the Christian research agency. however, what is not mentioned in his book is a comment he made at the beginning of his presentation when he stated that ‘had it not been for the presence of african & Caribbean Christians in the uk he may well have had to title his book ‘towards a Catastrophic nose dive to Extinction”.

despite the emotive use of language, both his sentiment and considered opinion was clear: if african & Caribbean Christians were not

present in uk churches both the numbers of Christians and the service they offered to communities would be significantly diminished. in other words, it is the presence of african & Caribbean Christians that is contributing to continue to make the church visible in the uk and to hold on to the traditional teachings of the church as passed down from the apostles. the truth is that african and Caribbean people possess a certain confidence in the power of the gospel (romans 1:16) that is increasingly eluding our white sisters and brothers whose faith is being bombarded and undermined by radical philosophies of atheism, secularism, postmodernism and a lack of experience or encounter with the holy spirit. the london baptist association regional team (of which i am a part) was recently invited to speak at the wisdom in mission Conference. the 24 hour residential gathers the senior executives of uk based mission agencies for considered reflection on what the spirit is saying about mission. the conversation is both practical and academic

There is a general consensus that the epicentre of Christianity has moved from the global North to the global South. This shift, what the Ghanaian theologian, Kwame Bediako, has referred to as ‘the centre of gravity of Christianity’ has not gone unnoticed here in the UK. One would not be accused of hyperbole if it were claimed that it is the presence of Christians from other parts of the world, particularly, Africa (Nigeria and Ghana in particular), that has halted the year-on-year decline in numbers of individuals that attend church in the UK. in nature. Praxis is the operative word- participants seek to reflect on their actions, wrestle with observations of missiologist’s (experts in mission), cultural critics and social theorists, seeking to discern trends and anticipate missional challenges and opportunities. our brief was to shed light on the complexities of the challenges - and the opportunities to lead a hugely diverse - spiritualities, theologies, missiologies and ecclesiologies - association of baptist churches into mission within the london context. our presentations were very much appreciated for the practical insights they offered as well as the ‘unconventional’, non-western, theological perspectives we brought to the discussions. while a significant part of our interaction was centred on the spiritual contribution(s) african & Caribbean Christians brought to the uk and to london in particular, we challenged the senior executives about their failure to recognise the limited paradigm(s) through which they viewed african & Caribbean Christians. our audience was quick to acknowledge our tremendous capacity for prayerfulness, and in many cases were keen to emulate it. similarly, they readily spoke with a hint of envy about the freedom in worship they observed in african and Caribbean congregations. however, for some, while they recognised western hegemony with respect to the theological enterprise of the church, the divergent perspectives on

theology still largely requires that african & Caribbean as English Christians travel further together. however, what our listeners had not yet fully grasped, although some had become cognizant of the fact, was the immense contribution of african & Caribbean Christians to society in the realms of politics, civic life, community engagement, education etc. it was our pleasure to highlight many national initiatives that find their genesis in african & Caribbean communities such as the nationally acclaimed street Pastors initiative, the Peace alliance, word for weapons, stop da violence, t.a.g. (target against gangs). similarly it was my pleasure to tell them about the ofnC. it was with a sense of pride as an african of nigerian heritage that i was able to tell them about committed Christians from nigeria who are now serving to make british society a better place. many were shocked - although they did not show it overtly - when i told them about the number of nigerian Christian professionals across a broad variety of sectors in membership within the ofnC, who were serving their communities in the name of Christ. i was proud. for years i carried vivid recollections of my first ofnC national Conference in wales. i left thinking two things: firstly, that you had to be a medical doctor to be a member of the ofnC (i quickly ran to the internet to see if i could purchase one for the following year, they are cheaper now than then) secondly, i became convinced over the 72 hours that i was with you all that the ofnC was a slEEPing giant that needed to be roused! Earlier this year i reconnected with the ofnC when dr albert okoye invited me to address the national Executive meeting in london along with dr jonathan oloyede from the global day of Prayer initiative. i was initially reluctant to accept the invitation. dr okoye was persistent and persuasive. thank god. i was filled with a deep sense of joy and gratitude to god when i heard the vision of the ofnC national Executive Committee. i heard a group of individuals that had sensed a mandate from god to make a difference and were committed to doing so. i have seen first-hand evidence that the slEEPing giant is beginning to arisE! allow me therefore to close this article by honouring the visionary leadership of dr albert okoye and the national Executive Committee. together they are driving the ofnC forward to become visible in strategic places and to bring to others an awareness of its existence. i am confident that if the momentum continues the ofnC will become a nationally recognised and acclaimed organisation that both honours the name of Christ and redefines the negative stereotypes and perceptions of nigerians here in the uk and beyond. i am looking forward to that day!

Chairman’s Welcome Address welcome you to the 2012 national Conference of the overseas fellowship of nigerian Christians and would like to start by giving thanks to god our father for his unwavering kindness, mercy, compassion and protection since we last gathered together in his presence in august 2011. he has indeed been ‘a rock and a shelter’ to us in the sinking sand and torrential rain of change that our generation has been witnessing in recent times. thank you for once again choosing to be in his presence this year, no doubt at some considerable financial, temporal and even physical sacrifice. i pray that, as has been our experience at past conferences, he will meet with you personally and at your highest point of need. if it is your first time of attending, i congratulate you for walking in the light of his counsel and allowing him order your steps to this ‘shiloh’. i am confident that he who brought you is well able to reveal himself to you and exercise his lordship over any areas of challenge in your lives.

i dr albErt okoyE

you will no doubt agree with me that these indeed are turbulent times and perhaps ‘the beginning of birth pains’ that our lord spoke about as heralding the time of the end in the twenty-fourth chapter of st. matthew’s gospel. we have not only experienced people claiming to be ‘messiahs’ doling out recipes that are meant to deliver but only push us deeper into the abyss; but are now victims of overt persecution as Christians even in nations at the vanguard of propagation of the Christian faith in times past. the media over the years has evolved to being wholly devoted to ascertaining that we ‘hear of wars and rumours of war’, incessant firsthand accounts of ‘famines and earthquakes’ all delivered as ‘room service’,

effortlessly into our closets. i doubt that our lord jesus and the early church fathers would recognise the church if they were to visit us today. not only have ‘many turned away from the faith’ but we are daily confronted with facts that no longer show any statistically significant difference in transgression of the laws of god between those in and outside the church. there is surely an ‘increase in wickedness’ on our watch which has predictably resulted in ‘the love of many going cold’. we have most definitely lost the ‘zeal for the house of God’ as our entanglement with the material world has ensured that our pursuits are of ‘...things’ that shall be added unto us rather than the kingdom of god and his righteousness. we truly have become fettered by ‘weights that beset...’ and ‘many false prophets’ have appeared as wolves in sheep clothing, deceiving many and delivering the sheep to wolves as they pursue their own agenda without the fear of he to whom all flesh must give an account. we are encouraged to ‘watch out that no one deceives’ us and that ‘...the one who stands f irm to the end will be saved’. what then should be our attitude in these times? how can we ensure that we successfully heed this advice in the face of evident godlessness and hopelessness in our day? in pondering this i was encouraged by noah’s account in the sixth chapter of the book of genesis that despite living in an apparently equally godless generation, ‘Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD’ and was accounted as being ‘a just man and perfect in his generation’. all these attributes seemingly resulted from a statement at the end of the ninth verse; ‘...and ‘Noah walked with God’. this was further buttressed by abraham’s account in the first verse of the seventeenth chapter of genesis, when god advised him to ‘walk and live habitually before me and be perfect...blameless, wholehearted, complete’ (amplified bible). ‘Perfection’ of our faith and obedience in a godless terrain would appear to be achievable, at least in part by walking with the lord. it would appear that one thing we most definitely have in abundance when we walk with the lord is light. the psalmist in the twenty third psalms alluded to not been afraid though he walked through the dark valley as it most certainly would have

“

I hope that you will be as encouraged as I have been by the unchanging word of God and the reliable assurances of His promises in our rapidly changing world and unreliable promises of ungodly men who openly scorn their maker, zealously preach His non-existence and invest huge financial resources in ‘inventing new ways of sinning’.

“

ofnC national ConfErEnCE august 2012

been illuminated by radiance from ‘the source of all lights...god!’ we are similarly persuaded in our theme verse to illuminate our walk (path) by accessing the word of god which is ‘...a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path’. i hope that you will be as encouraged as i have been by the unchanging word of god and the reliable assurances of his promises in our rapidly changing world and unreliable promises of ungodly men who openly scorn their maker, zealously preach his nonexistence and invest huge financial resources in ‘inventing new ways of sinning’. we must awake to our responsibilities and stand in the gap for our land. may the word of the lord shed light on any lingering doubt in the crevices of our heart during the course of this conference that we may be sharpened in our spiritual walk, ready to fulfil his purpose for us in our generation. Dr Albert Okoye OFNC National Chairman

National Conference 2012 Photographs by Martin Oguzie and C Ajayi

Dr Albert Okoye, the OFNC National Chairman is passionate about making a difference for God. Since becoming chairman of the OFNC in August 2011, he has tirelessly championed a drive to offer the OFNC to the Nigerian Christians in Diaspora as a platform for enabling unity. In this feature Dr Okoye talks about the ‘real and present dangers’ on our watch; the need for unity in the church and the significance of London/UK on the global spiritual front. By Peter Ikuobase. Photographs by Sue Jordan.

DR ALBERT OKOYE Dressed for OFNC National Chairman SERVICE

verseas fellowship of nigerian Christians is a Para-church nondenominational Christian fellowship of ‘apostles in the market place’. it is mandated a unifying platform for the universal church, starting with the nigerian church in diaspora and impacting the unity of the church in nigeria. dr okoye pictures the ofnC as an oak tree with “Nigerian roots, stem(med) out of britain with a global outreach (branches).”

“this image reflects what the ofnC actually is and does. majority of our members are british of nigerian extraction and the organisation builds up and encourages its members to engage with their local community through active participation in their churches. a large proportion of our bona fide members attend white majority churches where they characteristically occupy key positions in leadership including pastoral responsibilities and roles. this allows us to contribute our own unique flavour, passion and rhythm to the church in the uk”. dr okoye said, “we have over the years been able to build good collaborative relationships at both individual and communal levels with our local churches. whatever shortcomings the diaspora Christian may have, we often exude zeal and as a result have been able to impact our communities. ” dr okoye explained that the church in Europe appears to have resigned herself to a state of decline; contrary to accounts of the Christian founding fathers, like john wesley who were passionate for god and country . he further confided that “back in nigeria where we came from, we still held onto the images of the stories and accounts that were given of the Christian founding fathers, like john wesley who ]were passionate for god and country.”

“

It’s an organisation with Nigerian roots, Stemmed out of Britain with a global vision/outreach (branches).

it is important to understand that the ofnC and black majority churches have somewhat different roles in the current lukewarm spiritual climate in this great country. black majority churches appear to provide a more conducive environment for ethnic minority Christians to express their Christianity in the language and culture that comes naturally to them. black majority churches are also oftentimes a bastion of conventional Christian values which most nigerian and indeed african Christians long for and readily identify with; values that unfortunately appear to have been railroaded by the entrance of political correctness and egoism into mainstream churches in the uk.

the ofnC complements the work of organised Churches by encouraging its members with diverse professional skills and societal influence to explore ways of bringing their Christian virtues to bear on relevant socio-political matters. they are also to raise a common voice for the downtrodden either of faith or none. members often volunteer their professional skills at no cost to fight the corners of the disadvantaged. by so doing, the ofnC fulfils the role of ‘stephen ministry’ as glimpsed in the book of acts, thus enabling the organised church ministers concentrate on their core ministry of the gospel and providing pastoral care. dr okoye is not only passionate about the mission of the ofnC, but poignantly reflects on “why are we here in the uk at such a time as this?” dr okoye is convinced that despite the ofnC’s relatively small numerical size of a few thousand members, it has a significant role to play in the present era. “i see a biblical parallel with the children of issachar, who the scriptures recorded ruled israel in spite of being one of the smallest tribes ‘ because they understood the times and knew what israel had to do’ (1 Chronicles 12:32). there are many pointers to the fact that ‘the branches of the fig tree are becoming tender’, including distortion and dilution of the word as well as anti-Christian government policies and diktats. we are now recording widespread persecution of Christians, and blasphemy is commonplace all on the background of ‘wars and rumours of wars’. Perhaps of greatest concern is the laissez-faire and selfindulgent spirit that appears to have gained a strong footing in the Church. moral values and lifestyle inside the church and outside are broadly similar, with some church leaders subscribing to concepts and ideas that are clearly contrary to the word of god. dr okoye believes that this is the season for the revelation of organisations like the ofnC which is a gathering of ‘the elect - regular Christians in the marketplace who are driven by the desire to see the church regain her relevant position in this and other nation. since the 1960s, ofnC has been working in the background, building men and women up in sound biblical doctrine as well as a solid grass roots following. many established Christian leaders in the uk have dealt with the ofnC in the past. some others and

their ministries grew out of the ofnC. the ofnC models strong values such as: solid untainted Christian teaching, unswerving selfless service to god, Christian integrity and a strong focus on developing core character. the fellowship is run by unpaid volunteers who all have to joggle their service with responsible and often highly demanding professional jobs. a considerable proportion of ofnC members are marketplace leaders and captains in their chosen fields rather than mainstream church leaders. with its strengths and good positioning, dr okoye believes the ofnC has been prepared by god for ‘such a time as this’; the purpose is to work collaboratively with similar organisations in coming alongside mainstream church leaders and ‘lifting up their arms’ as the battle rages. ofnC’s mandate is to provide a neutral platform that would enhance the unity of the body of Christ so as to allow the spirit of god to bring about the much awaited and longed for renaissance in the uk and global church. d. okoye recalled that on taking over the mantle of leadership a year ago, “i felt the lord saying you’ve circled this

mountain long enough, it’s time for you to cross the jordan and take the land.” dr okoye spoke about the importance of understanding the enemy’s strategies for discrediting the church leaders. with that realisation in mind, the ofnC has made a conscious decision that rather than stand at a distance and criticise men and women who have elected to raise their heads above the parapet, it would come alongside church leaders and share what it has received from the lord in the last four decades. ofnC supports Christian ideals rather than particular segments of the Christian community in that although our roots are nigeria; we are not confined to nigeria-led church activities. dr okoye reiterated that the ofnC has been positioned by god in the uk to achieve his purposes in this generation. the ofnC is consequently ‘kingdom focused’ rather than bound by ‘ethnicreligious ties’ as does appear to be the case with a number of organisations with a predominant ethnic group. dr okoye said, “this awareness of the master’s intention has coloured and been the solid

rock on which the fellowship has grown in the last forty years. we are acutely aware that our own peace lies in the peace of our ‘babylon’ (uk) but our hearts also grieve over the ‘broken city walls of our earthly jerusalem’ (nigeria) as the piece of land on the face of the earth the sovereign lord has apportioned to us to tend.” he continued, “we consequently contribute skills and material resources to visions on both sides of the atlantic that will propagate the Christian message and enable lost souls find Christ. “ some recent activities of the ofnC include support for ‘midnight oil’ – a two-day youth Christian concert anchored by a young afro-Caribbean, passionate for Christ; the national day of Prayer in september 2012 and ‘nigeria Prays’ prayer rally on the 1st of september 2012. to foster unity in the church, starting with the nigerian Christian Community in diaspora, the ofnC has been engaging with nigerian Church leaders in the uk for many years. it offers itself as a

neutral platform on churches leaders can dialogue with each other in the hope of restoring broken relationships. dr okoye reports encouraging acceptance by the nigeria Church leaders he has so far met. during his watch, dr okoye would like to see the unity of black and white majority churches. he lamented the glaring absence of black uk Christians at the yearly ’ london men’s Conference’ - a stark reminder of the deep gorge that clearly exists in the uk church. he wondered what message such apparent division sends to unbelievers who we are meant to attract into the body. the ofnC is probably best positioned to unite the nigerian Church in diaspora and present them on the same podium with white majority churches given that over 95% of the bona fide ofnC members are active attendees of white majority Churches. this combined with its strong links with black majority Churches, many of which are led by nigerian ministers, is no doubt an added advantage. dr Okoye said “We see ourselves as ‘standing in the gap’ that currently exists between the two potentially powerful armies for the body of Christ in UK.”

he sees the breakdown of building walls and ushering in of a true universal church for which Christ died. “i see an environment where each church member, starting with the leaders can forget about denomination and the sizes of their individual church congregation but rather are conscious that the sheep for which they must account their stewardship belong to the master”. he noted that there are already signs of this happening such as interdenominational prayer meetings like nigeria Prays and national day of Prayer as well as the ofnC recent initiative of on-line interdenominational ministers’ prayer meeting. as far as dr okoye is concerned, the real and present danger to the future of the church in uk is not so much the spread of islam but the demise of Christianity and rise of atheism. he noted that if Christians could be as zealous for Christ as the muslims are for mohammed, they will all be converted to Christianity. he believes that our problem is that we are fast losing ground to the atheist and Postmodern ideologists who preach liberalism with unrelenting passion and daily sacrifice our children and the future of this great Christian nation on the altars of hedonism. he is concerned that the church is not ardently holding up the judeo-Christian pillars and structures that have supported the british society and contributed in no small measure to what it is today. dr okoye lamented the loss of “our own passion for

“

Christian unity in action, with every nigerian and many african tribes represented, across 250 different uk churches yet dwelling and thriving in the love of Christ. dr okoye uses himself as an example; he attends harrow international Christian Centre (hiCC), a white majority but evidently multinational church - over 50 nations represented- led by a 78-year old white british male minister. dr okoye is a member of the Church Cabinet and the men’s Coordinator at hiCC; a role that affords him the opportunity to positively impact on people’s lives within and outside the church. this typifies the ofnC objectives of “evangelising through your local churches and ...being an effective agent for change”. in five years, dr okoye sees the ofnC as pivotal to bringing about unity in the church, which he asserts is ”a pre-requisite for nationwide revival” and pushing back the forces of darkness that are currently threatening to annihilate the Church.

We see ourselves as ‘standing in the gap’ that currently exists between the two potentially powerful armies for the body of Christ in UK.

Christ and we have allowed liberalism to take over the church.” dr okoye believes that as “apostles in the marketplace”, ofnC members are well positioned to unapologetically influence social policies where it counts – schools, workplace, churches, public forums and other fields-. he noted that the atmosphere of justice and equity that continues to attract multitudes to this nation was founded on judeo-Christian values and ideals; “yet we are daily made to believe that the uk ’does not do god’ ”! dr okoye concludes “i believe that the lord god almighty has a plan for this strategic nation. we are part of the ‘army’ that he is now calling from all corners of the earth to stand shoulder to shoulder with our ‘brothers’ in the defence of this very pivotal nation in Christendom. the founding fathers shed their blood far afield to spread the gospel of Christ; the resources of the nation went into ensuring that the bible was made available in as near universal a language as possible. apart from its spiritual significance to the church, the uk also commands crucial economic and material importance in world affairs. the spiritual atmosphere must not fall into the hands of spiritually wicked principalities and powers. we need to arise and gather on a platform of unity in order to push back the forces of darkness over this and other nations; a tangible threat to ours and future generations.”

ofnC is perhaps one of the best examples of

OFNC PEOPLE PROFILES

DR IFEOLU OMONIYI AKINTUNDE feolu omoniyi akintunde (ife) is a public speaker, writer, blogger and the national publicity secretary of the ofnC. he is CEo of ioa Consults ltd and a director of hatua C.i.C. in 2006, he became the first executive secretary of Xn foundation, the charity which organises the annual international Conference of nigerian students (iCons). in 2011, he gave up the position to become the director of the Programme of awareness and intervention in disability (Paid) a new initiative of Xn foundation. he is also vice chair of the board of the sunbeams music trust, northwest England’s charity of the year in 2006/2007.

born in nigeria, he attended the Pacelli school for blind children, king’s college and the university of lagos, before being called to the nigerian bar. in the uk, he completed his masters and doctorate in international relations at the university of lancaster. his work has won him several awards, including the greenwich university nigerian students’ award for exemplary conduct and the Pride of the motherland award. he is an avid reader whose other hobbies include music, armchair sports, current affairs, travel and learning new things. since becoming a Christian, Christ has become the centre of everything, his anchor in all situations. he is a member of the worship team at king’s Community Church lancaster, where he also heads the outreach to international students.

DR O SANGOWAWA (MBBS, MPH, MSC, FWACP, FFPH) r olatokunbo (usually called tokunbo or toks) sangowawa is a registered medical practitioner with international experience. he has primary medical and higher specialist training and qualifications in public health from uk, usa, and west africa. he currently holds a fellowship of the uk faculty of Public health and west african College of Physicians.

dr sangowawa has worked in different capacities in different parts of the world. he began his career with the federal ministry of health as a Port health medical officer-in-charge of kano international airport, nigeria and coordinated the establishment of, managed the national vaccine Cold store in kano, nigeria and supervised immunisation activities in collaboration with uniCEf. he was the deputy national coordinator for the nigerian national aids programme between 1991 and 1993, before he moved to the uk. he has also done consultancy work in different regions including serving as a who temporary adviser to review planning and managing multisectoral aids programmes in africa. he is presently based in the uk and had held different positions in the nhs including director of infection Prevention and Control; director of Public health, stockton-on-tees teaching Primary Care trust and director of Public health (specialised Commissioning) with the north East specialised Commissioning group (sCg). dr sangowawa is currently the Clinical director of Public health for nhs tees (a cluster of 4 Primary Care trusts). he is a deputy faculty adviser and CPd Coordinator for the north East, England. he is also a Prescribing Consultant for specialist substance misuse services.

PROFESSOR ADEWALE ADEBAJO

PROFESSOR IFIOK OTUNG

rofessor adewale adebajo is a Consultant rheumatologist and a recently appointed Clinical director at barnsley hospital, and Professor of rheumatology at the university of sheffield. he is also a visiting Professor at sheffield hallam university, sheffield as well as at st mathews medical school, florida, usa.

fiok otung is Professor of satellite Communications at the university of glamorgan in wales. he earned a Phd in 1995 at the university of surrey and is a chartered engineer with wide experience of research and teaching at various universities in Europe, africa and asia. he has successfully supervised 10 Phd’s and 80 msc’s, and is an experienced author of 120 publications, including an engineering textbook described by one london lecturer as “the best book i’ve seen!” glamorgan university’s student union recently awarded ifiok the accolade of ‘best lecturer international’.

he is an associate director of teaching at the university of sheffield medical school and associate Editor for one of the major rheumatology journals. he has edited several books including the abC of rheumatology textbook and is a contributor to many books such as the oxford textbook of rheumatology. he has numerous publications in high quality journals and has been awarded several prestigious grants. Professor adebajo has been a temporary adviser to the world health organisation, and is a member of several international committees. he is a regional adviser for the royal College of Physicians and surgeons of glasgow. he co-led the kings Centre Church, sheffield for several years and is a member of the board of Philadelphia network Church, sheffield where he is an Elder. he is Chair of the ofnC national outreach team and Chair of the ofnC bursary award Committee.

ifiok’s root is in nigeria where he earned first class honours and masters degrees in Electronic Engineering at ife university. there, he and buchi were married and committed to building a family grounded in jesus Christ. in some circles ifiok is however best known as a gospel teacher who has helped countless many maximise their god-given potential. over the years he has served in diverse ministry capacities as fulltime travelling secretary, Church Pastor in nigeria and uk, leader of interdenominational Christian fellowships, etc. ifiok and buchi have 5 children aged 18 to 24 who between them share 61 a/a*’s at gCsE/a-levels, and are happy to help empower other ofnC parents.

he is married to his darling wife, adenike, and they are blessed with 3 children (anu, ife and ayo). he enjoys travelling, table tennis and watching his son play football.

dr sangowawa is a committed and serving Christian. he is an elder in his church (all nations Church, hemlington, middlesbrough) and currently chairs the board of trustees of the church. he also sits on the board of other Christian Charity organisations. toks feel privileged to have been called to chair the local organising Committee for the 2012 ofnC annual national Conference.

tokunbo is married to sade and they are blessed with three children – yewande, funke and temitope.

disablEd In the wake of the recently concluded Paralympics 2012 in London, dr ife akintunde challenges us to reflect on our views about disability this heartwarming article.

hank god for ms joni Eareckson tada! i first came across this amazing lady, (who had become a paraplegic as a result of a diving accident) when i was a student at the university of lagos. a good friend of mine read her story to me. what i found so refreshing was that everyone admired her, whereas, most of the Christians who came across me kept praying that i would receive my sight.

t 20

i have lived with visual impairment all my life and it is really not so bad. when i ask the question ‘am i disabled? , i am aware that disability is a challenge for those who are, or even those who pray for their healing, and also for everyone who comes in contact with them. when you meet a disabled person, you are immediately self-conscious. you wonder if you are doing it right; if you are offending the person; whether to help or not; you even wonder why they are disabled. i am also aware that these are my own perceptions and i do not seek to impose any views of disability. however, i hope that the points i raise may lead you to examine your own position. my time at the university of lagos was significant for more reasons than learning of ms tada. it was also the time for asking questions and joining in the intellectual pursuits of students who had not yet begun to worry about work and family. it was the time to ask questions, such as ‘Could i make it in the world of sighted people?’ and more importantly, ‘why can’t i see?’ you see, from childhood, i had been schooled in the belief that god could and would heal me. People had prayed for me, in sessions lasting hours, sometimes, all night and there was the suggestion, sometimes subtle, sometimes glaring, that if i could not see, then my faith was not enough. the whole question of my sight produced a huge crisis of faith. Everyone reminded me that just the faith of a mustard seed could cure me … surely that wasn’t much at all! so, if i did not even have the faith of a mustard seed, what did i have? the logical progression

“

The whole question of my sight produced a huge crisis of faith. Everyone reminded me that just the faith of a mustard seed could cure me … surely that wasn’t much at all! So, if I did not even have the faith of a mustard seed, what did I have? The logical progression of that train of thought was very troubling, because of Hebrews 11:3, ‘Without faith, it is impossible to please God’.

“

AM I

so now you know it, i am a blind person.

of that train of thought was very troubling, because of hebrews 11:3, ‘without faith, it is impossible to please god’. most of my Christian friends of that time would be surprised at my spiritual growth since. i owe them an apology, because they would have found me argumentative, unwieldy and unduly critical. my explanation is that i could not reconcile my own Christianity with the ‘received’ perspective that i was ‘of little (or no) faith’. and like anyone who suffers from an identity crisis, i became rebellious and against god. it would be wrong to blame all my teenage problems on those prayer sessions, in the same way that joni was probably not solely responsible for my rejuvenation. in

the end, I had to come to a new recognition of who God was, to discover Him for myself and not depend on what others had told me.

“

his letter to the Galatians that they knew of his infirmities, but as with the Corinthians, we are not told what these are. I expect however, it was known to his readers. I imagine it was something he felt so uncomfortable about, that he could not bring himself to mention its name in writing. In many cultures, disability is the unmentionable; people are hidden away, even disowned because they are disabled.

The first thing I observed was that God is not ‘Father Christmas’. Jesus did say in Matthew 6 that our Heavenly Father is more caring, even than our earthly father, and that He is just waiting to answer our prayers. He would not give me a stone if I asked for bread. But if my faith was based on God’s power to heal me, then until I am healed, I might throw a tantrum like a spoilt child. In any case, my relationship with God would then be narrow and self-seeking, only concentrating on my wishes, rather than God’s Glory or purpose for me.

Whatever it was, the preacher, teacher and miracle worker recognised its purpose. First, he prays to have it removed; then God spoke to him, telling him why it was there. Never at any point did he feel that his own faith was lacking. Instead, he learned that his weakness was an opportunity for God’s strength.

But this new position raised new questions. Is God’s purpose for me that I should not see? Or am I merely using this as an excuse not to work up my faith and receive my sight? After all, if I wanted to see, it would be a desire put in my heart by God. It was the great healer Himself who answered my questions. The gospel of John chapter 9 records an

When I ask the question ‘Am I disabled?’ I ask it of myself, but I also ask it of you. For I have learned that blindness is just the weakness by which God is glorified in my life. It does not mean that I won’t wake up tomorrow, fully sighted; but whether I do or not, I now know that He is the source of my strength.

“

incident where the disciples asked Jesus about a man who was disabled. They wanted to know whether this was caused by the sin of his parents. Although Jesus went on to heal that man, his reply was instructive. He confirmed that the illness was not due to parental sin, but he did not say that it was so God’s healing power could be demonstrated. He said it was so that the Glory of God may be made manifest. Thus, the important thing is not whether a person is healed, but that whatever happens, God’s glory is exposed. That interpretation unlocks the mystery of the few occasions where people have passed through the Bible without their healing. Jacob for instance, leaned on his staff, as a result of his encounter with God. His broken hip bone always served as a reminder of that encounter, and of God’s power. Then, there is that famous passage in 2 Corinthians 9, where Paul writes about the ‘messenger of Satan’ sent to prevent him from getting arrogant. He also records in

One day, while speaking in a local school about why I am a Christian, a 12 year old boy asked why I still believed God, despite my blindness. So I gave the standard answer, told him how good God is. But when I got home, I was troubled and asked God a few questions of my own. It had been a tough few years of searching for jobs and being aware that my disability stood in my way. Gradually, God began to show me what I had learned as a blind person. I had learned how other people looked at disability, and I had learned not to think like that. I had learned the things a blind person could do, which I probably would not have known from my sheltered upbringing. Interestingly, I had learned to trust people more, to read letters and do things, and although one or two betrayed me, the majority of people did not. But most importantly, I learned to trust God to provide for me when nobody else could. Yes, with the faith of a mustard seed, anyone can command a mountain to be moved. That little faith is all God requires. Come to think of it, how much faith did Lazarus have when Jesus raised him from the dead? If that’s a trick question, then how much faith did Mary and Martha have? When they met Jesus, each said, ‘If only you had been here earlier, our brother would not have died’. They had the faith that Lazarus could be healed, but did they have the faith that he could be raised? One could ask the same question of Jairus, or of his family when they said to him, ‘do not trouble the master, your daughter is dead’. Yet, on each occasion, Jesus took the faith they had, and built it,

because their little faith had connected with God’s glory. When I read Hebrews 11, that great chapter on faith, I learn that faith is more than believing God for healing. It is more like the plug which makes communication between God and us possible. It was only by ‘plugging in’ that Abraham and his successors could prepare the way for Christ. In many ways, our faith defines us, and there is a real risk that we become so fixated on the miracle that we close up other avenues for our growth. This was brought home to me one day as I went to work, traveling through the busy streets of Lagos. I happened to sit next to a lady who invited me to a healing meeting. As we had already become engrossed in conversation, at the point where we changed buses, she agreed to assist me. Unfortunately, we had become so focused that I fell into one of the open ditches which dots Lagos. As I struggled to get out, I could hear her cry to God; ‘Oh God, you know I was only telling him about his healing!’ Although I had listened to her with interest, I realised that I was not important. She had not even tried to help me, she had not addressed me, she was only interested in how God would feel about her performance. I am sure that God would have wanted her to think more of me than just an object for direction to a place of healing. For me, one lesson of that experience is that what people think of me matters. That principle is even in the Bible; when David was to be appointed king, God told Samuel that He wasn’t interested in outward appearance, but in the heart. And in the New Testament, Jesus tells us why, when he said ‘out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks’ When I ask the question ‘Am I disabled?’ I ask it of myself, but I also ask it of you. For I have learned that blindness is just the weakness by which God is glorified in my life. It does not mean that I won’t wake up tomorrow, fully sighted; but whether I do or not, I now know that He is the source of my strength. What about you? If you cannot see it in me, then I have not yet showed forth His glory. If you have, then He gets all the glory, and you don’t see me as disabled, but as one of God’s children, for we are all imperfect, and He is absolutely perfect.

a man and not where he could be in the future. It’s a sad situation, because you may be rejecting a man that God has chosen for you by basing your judgements on outward appearances alone. Great men do not appear overnight. They are moulded, developed and grown as God sows into their lives. Through your encouragement, prayer, support and love, an ordinary man can become extraordinary. Most men who are searching for a wife will say that at this crucial stage, they need a woman who will believe in them. As a woman, you have the power to influence a man’s life. Proverbs 31:12 “She brings him good, not harm all the days of her life. Which one will you choose? What it comes down to is, ‘what do you want in a husband’? Material qualifications, life goals, character? We all want different things and look out for various qualities in the man we want to marry. What you need to determine is whether those qualities are already evident. Sometimes they may just be at the seed stage, which means they have not yet blossomed but glimpses are beginning to spring forth. Chichi Eruchalu

Potential

- What Are You Looking For? he was a 4th Year attorney at a very prestigious Chicago law firm, who was doing really well. She was on her way to becoming partner.

A guy wanted to date her, who had just got out of school. He didn’t have a job and his car had a hole in it. He had no money. She was practicing in her home town. He was not even from the town, he didn’t know anybody. She however saw potential in him. In fact she saw it so much that for the first 10, maybe more years of their marriage, she was the primary bread winner.

Potential Now he’s the President of the United States and she’s the first Lady. If you were in Michelle’s position, how would you have responded? Would you have: a) Looked at his status, kissed your teeth and told him off for even thinking he could talk to you. or b) Looked beyond his current situation to his potential. If you answered a – you join a growing group of young women who base their relationships on the current status of

Maybe he is not yet the President of the USA but he’s a leader at church. Maybe he’s not the CEO of a Fortune 500 company but he is diligently running his own small business, demonstrating vision, discipline and hard work. In a job interview, you are asked to give examples of competencies i.e leadership, teamwork, problem solver, to establish whether you have the potential to develop those skills in the role they are offering. Similarly, you need to be able to identify those seeds of potential. Luke 16:10 reminds us “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.’ Standards are good, but not so exclusive that great guys pass you by because you’re not willing to invest the time to grow together. Potential vs Liability Potential and liability may look the same but they are clearly distinct. Potential = positive risk. Liability = negative risk

When I met my husband he was a Masters student and I was a Bank Manager. We were on different rungs of the ladder, but he was a very focused man who knew where he was going in life. He had evidence to support his words and demonstrated the traits I was looking for. Today he is well on his way to realising his potential. Here are some questions to ask yourself: 1. What is his vision and what steps is he taking to get there? 2. Actions speak louder than words, so what ‘fruits’ is he exhibiting? 3. What are the opinions of those around him? Our closest friends are usually one of two things, a reflection of who we are, or an indication of what we will be 4. How does he treat those around him? Potential and Character The search for a mate has its own checks and balances and there are red flags which should not be ignored. The character of your future husband is fundamental in knowing his potential. Traits such as womanising, abuse or addiction should not be overlooked. Regardless of any other potentials you may observe, such a man is not ready to be a husband. Potential = Faith Ultimately, it comes down to faith. Each day we make decisions and take steps based on the information we have at that moment in time. However through prayer, we ask God for wisdom, then allow Him to have His way. The same goes for choosing your future spouse. Remember, faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. (Hebrews 11:1) Now that is what potential is all about.

Chichi Eruchalu has spent the last seven years working for one of the world’s leading banks in a variety of roles. Outside of work she serves in her local church as a Life Group Leader and is the Editor of www.fromnowtillido.com, an online blog where she shares her learns and insights around relationships, faith and marriage, encouraging single and married women alike. She resides in London with her husband and daughter.

Barrack had no job and his car had a hole, but he was a Harvard Law graduate with a plan and clear goals, something Michelle obviously saw and admired.

Nigerian Chaplaincy

BEN ENWUCHOLA

Reverend Canon Chaplain

The Nigerian Chaplaincy offers important services to the Nigerian Christian Community in Diaspora and is closely linked with the OFNC. Reverend Canon Ben Enwuchola, an active OFNC member, talks in this feature about the role of a chaplain and the mission of the chaplaincy in the UK, his journey and the future. By Peter Ikuobase. Photographs by Sue Jordan

en Enwuchola is a chaplain to the Nigerian community in the UK. He is based at the St Marylebone Parish Church in London, and was a church curate before he took up the chaplaincy position. Ben explained the role of a chaplain: “The main role of the chaplaincy-the heart of it and what it was originally created to do in the 1980’s - was to reach out to the Nigerian university students, encouraging them in their faith, to draw them close to Christ and to provide pastoral support.” It includes a prison ministry and providing different kinds of support and counselling services to the Nigerian community.

The chaplain performs religious services such as weddings, naming ceremonies and funeral services. These events present a great evangelistic opportunity. The chaplaincy partners with OFNC and other Nigerian pastors to convene The Independence Anniversary October Service. This is an interdenominational thanksgiving service for Nigeria’s independence, which takes place the first Sunday in October. Ben said; “I describe it as a civic service with an emphasis on thanksgiving and prayer.” The largest Independence Anniversary Service to date was held in the London Excel Centre in 2010 and attended by over 3000 people. He said it was a great blessing but also a challenge to gather so many people together. Working with the OFNC helped meet the challenge. There is a close partnership between the Chaplaincy and the OFNC. Ben is part of the OFNC. He said: “I am presented as the ministerial face of the OFNC in the Nigerian community. OFNC provides a platform for the chaplaincy to work effectively and offers

opportunities to visit other branches, to either speak or to counsel.” It is not easy to define the size of the Nigerian Christian community in the UK. Nigerians worship in a diversity of congregations, ranging from the Black-majority Pentecostal Charismatic churches, the Anglican Church, the Baptist church, independent churches and spiritual churches. In the past, it has been difficult to connect with all of these diverse groups. That is one reason why Ben is thrilled with the current drive of the OFNC leadership to provide a platform for unity among Nigerian Christians in Diaspora. He explained: “They are trying to reach out to the Nigerian pastors and to bring them together with the emphasis of unity and I think it’s very important. Having said that, one of the things that has encouraged me, as a person and as a chaplain, is seeing Nigerian pastors in different places making impact, I’m always so thrilled.” Ben sees a huge opportunity for mission work. Reverse missions is an area where the chaplaincy can work

closely with the OFNC to spread the gospel more broadly. The centre of gravity of evangelistic Christianity has shifted to the global South – Africa, Latin America and Asia. Ben explains: “this is where revivals are happening and people are happy to proclaim Christ and lives transformed by the power of the gospel .”

Ben concludes that the priority for Christians should simply be ‘Love of Christ’, the God of all missions, and serving him first and foremost. He said: “Everything else comes after. Mission is important, but the missionary has to be ‘a person of Christ’, a person that’s ‘in love with Christ’ himself and to grow in that love of Christ daily!”

This transformation of lives is through practical means. Meeting people’s needs opens them up to the gospel. When European missionaries came to Africa, they brought the gospel, bible schools, education, health and hospitals.

Ben became a committed Christian while studying Mechanical Engineering at a polytechnic in northern Nigeria. He had attended a programme run by the Nigeria Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFES) where there was strong teaching about the Holy Spirit. Ben started to pray to have this experience and God graciously granted him. He became committed to the Christian Union. After his graduation he joined the staff of NIFES as a travelling secretary. After working for NIFES for seven years he went to study theology and was later ordained into Anglican priesthood. His experience of working for a Para-church organisation like NIFES has stood him in good stead, both in his work in the Anglican Church and in ecumenical undertakings.

“

An integral part of missions in Africa today following the example of the European missionaries includes the provision of basic amenities and the economic empowerment of people at grass roots level. Reverse missions from Africa bring a vibrancy of worship and faith and confidence of the gospel. Ben believes that passionate proclamation of the gospel can bring back hope in a society that is losing hope in the Word. People will stop and think that maybe there is something in the gospel after all. He pointed out some churches that are involved in social action, including Jesus House, KICC, CFT New Wine and others, which provide nursery education; feed and accommodate the homeless; deliver Christmas hampers to homes, and undertake other activities to reach out the vulnerable people. This shows people that the gospel is holistic – people are really reached by showing them love and expressing God’s care for them in practical ways.

“

Look at our pastors and the way they proclaim, it’s by the gospel-by people who know.

Everything else comes after. Mission is important, but a missionary has to be ‘a person of Christ’, a person that’s ‘in love with Christ’ himself and loving him more and more every day!

Our first aim is “To worship God;” praise brings you into His presence worship is what you do when you get there. The problem is that few get there. If the devil can pervert our worship we will pervert our morals. The purpose of meeting together is more than just having a “great time” (and there is nothing wrong with that) it is to challenge the darkness. Our congregations do not want to die they want to live, be rich and receive untold blessings. Worship will teach them how to die to self, for Jesus experienced the cross - we are no exception. By transferring our kingdom we transfer our worship. Worship is not just praise and prostration; it is holiness of life. ‘I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice (dutiful worship), holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.’ (Romans 12:1)

Build a

Multinational

CHURCH By Dr Michael Carr

We live in a battered world where barbarity, brutality and bestiality are intruding on the Christian faith, poking its evil into the soft tissue of our profession. At best we attempt to grasp a vanishing past in a decadent present looking apprehensively to a destructive future. Civilisation is decaying as cynicism and fatalism grip the nations, often paralysing optimism. In the midst of this degeneration, fighting blindness of vision and resisting the cramping conflicts of conscience, we make testimony of unity amidst the disintegration of multi-culturalism. The church is the last bastion for reconciliation. If it cannot manufacture peace, by the Prince of Peace, no one can. Islam will subjugate by force, Christianity will bear a cross – five wounds can, like a magnet, draw people together. 30

The second aim of the vision is to ‘walk in the light’ and that is to accept, believe and live by the revelation of scripture, not to do so is to walk in darkness. Why should God through the Holy Spirit give us more revelation if we are not embracing the one he has already given us? Written in the pulpit of one famous church were the words, ‘The hungry sheep look up and are not fed;’ that never happens at HICC; they are at times surfeited or overindulged! The teaching must be lucid, simple, direct, uncompromising and Biblical. It must not cater to the curse of topicality, but be theologically relevant. It should not promise riches for all but propound that a generous life reaps rewards by automatic response from God’s favour. Greed is the rampant topmost problem in the Western world and the prosperity gospel increases that covetous deformity. o church can become multinational without an understanding of Cavalry’s manifesto. The modus operandi of the first century church reflected a divine glory encapsulated in lifestyle relationship that superseded class and culture, so that Caesar’s slaves sat down with Israel’s princes. The shutters of the empire opened, permitting gospel light to flood the nations; Zion’s sons were born, now grown, have come home to become the teachers. Ninety percent of my leaders are ethnic, better men and women I have never met; I am reaping the sower’s legacy.

A multinational church is miracle of grace, a testimony of love, a discipline of forbearance and a pilgrim’s choice to change. Colour and culture are irrelevant, new birth imperative, the Holy Spirit essential. To bear and forbear undergirds the platform of progress, and to walk in love is a continual axiom. To harp on the minutiae confounds

the vision to do the impossible by the invisible. Broad plans are needed that overlook the niggling discontent of adverse circumstances that transcends the deprivation of untimed birth. If we want to tie the feet of Satan we must wash the feet of saints. Servanthood is the answer. Three Pragmatic Pointers The vision and mission statements of Harrow International Christian Centre (HICC) are combined in one sentence and informs of the methodology of building a multinational church. Here it is: ‘To build a multinational church that worships God walks in the light and witnesses unto Christ.’ The object is to “Build a multinational Church” the three aims are: to worship, to walk and to witness, those three will build the church. The objective is the bull’s-eye at which the arrows aim. The slogan reads – ‘Together on the way to God by Christ through the Holy Spirit.’ Brevity, clarity and simplicity are the operating words; every word jewel and every sentence a coronet!

‘To witness unto Christ’ is the final aim of the vision yet first thought of our souls. Many witness to anything and everything but not to Christ. Gifts of the Spirit, eschatology, prosperity, healing, victorious living; the list is endless. The Colossian church was in danger of having Christ plus, not Christ only. Christ is the only answer and if He is made predominant the Father and the Spirit are well pleased. He is the finite yet infinite one; he lived before he was born and after he died. He can screw up the world and spit it into the eyeball of a fly and make an ocean from a dew drop; a forest from a splinter. Christianity is Christ, not an ideology or philosophy.Today, in many churches we have JDD – Jesus Deficit Disorder! Oh YES! He’s my LORD – Hallelujah. Dr Michael Carr – Founding Senior Minister of the Harrow International Christian Centre [HICC].

DR JONATHAN OLOYEDE

National Day of Prayer Wembley

Convener

Dr Jonathan Oloyede, a medical doctor and a convert from Islam had visions of renewal, revival and transformation coming to the UK. These included graphic images of the new Wembley Stadium filled will Christians worshipping. Connecting with a group of Christian leaders in the UK, it was decided in 2006 to link the prayer initiative to Pentecost and the Global Day of Prayer Movement. By Peter Ikuobase. Photographs by Sue Jordan he National Day of Prayer is supported by Global Day of Prayer London and is the culmination of a series of visions that Dr Jonathan Oloyede, a convert from Islam, had over a 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15 year period.

Two visions stand out. The first was in the 1990s. While praying, Jonathan saw a vision of the new Wembley Stadium filled to capacity with Christians worshipping and waiting for the appearance of the Lord on the stage. A voice said â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where my people gather, I am the

one that speaks.” In another vision, Jonathan saw multitudes of young people streaming towards what looked like the M1. They were all teenagers - 70% white and 30% of all other colours and cultures. A voice said, “When I call, my people answer.” He knew that he had seen something of the future and that young people would be used of God in the UK In 2006, he shared the visions with a national group of Christian leaders and said he felt that the initiative should be under the umbrella of the Global Day of Prayer (GDOP), a prayer convention birthed by the South African Graham Powell. The Christian leaders asked Jonathan to lead the initiative. Over the last 6 years there have been several large GDOP prayer events: Westminster Chapel in 2006, West Ham in 2007, Millwall in 2008 and West Ham in 2010. There was a leaders’ conference at Wembley Stadium in September 2011 , where attendees took up the challenge to “Be the Torch” for UK revival and help mobilise Christians across the UK to fill the stadium on the National Day of Prayer on 29th September 2012.

GDOP London Events Date Location 2006 Westminster Chapel 2007 West Ham FC 2008 Millwall Stadium. 2009 Various locations in 33 London Boroughs 2010 West Ham Stadium 2011 Great Hall at Wembley Stadium 2012 Wembley Stadium

Attendees 1,000 people 20,000 people 14,000 50,000 people 10,000 people 1,100 Christian leaders 70,000 expected

In an interview with Dr Oloyede, he echoed the following thoughts; National prayer can help deal with the many challenges facing the UK today. God is no longer a central stage for this nation, resulting in a generation of unchurched people. This godlessness manifests itself in many ways: violent crime is rife among the youth; the Government passes legislation that undermines family values and encourages alternative lifestyles. Other religions are given priority and prominence over Christianity. He believes that the current economic state is indicative of the nation’s spiritual state as people have withdrawn from God. In his mercy, God is giving Britain one last chance

because of the good seed that has been sown in previous generations. The impact of the Olympics in London is a direct result of prayer and a prophetic sign that, if we unite and, go back to the foundations that were laid by the fathers Britain can be great again.

commissioned and energised as agents of godly change in their communities. Groups, churches and individuals will look back on it as a time when they put a stake in the ground and sought God’s intervention.

Can prayer really make a difference? God forgives the sins of his people and heals the land when they humbly turn away from their sins and seek His face in prayer and repentance (1 Chronicles 7:14). There are biblical parallels in how God forgave Nineveh in Jonah 3 and Israel’s cycle of sin and deliverance under the Judges. Prayer is indispensable in the life of a nation and the individual. The greatest weapon available to Christians is prayer. To go beyond human ability, we need to turn to the weapons of warfare which are mighty through God for pulling down strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4).

The event will act as a catalyst for deeper unity in the Church. God will begin to move this nation into a revival that will bring many people into the church and to Christ. The nation will benefit from the seeds of missionary activity that it undertook in other parts of the world years ago. The Apostolic Church received a prophecy that “the seed of the fruit of the seed will bless you”.

The National Day of Prayer will add its own momentum to the stream of prayer in this nation. It will help lead the people back to the altar to say “Lord have mercy on us.”In Wembley, Christians will be standing in the gap , as the church fulfils it roles as priest for the nation, crying out for God to have mercy on us. Dr Oloyede expanded on what we can expect to see after the event. Thousands of young people will be

OFNC represents the fruit of the harvest of the labours of UK missions overseas. Now people from overseas, including Nigerians are here to hold the hands of the indigenous church. The OFNC plays a pivotal role in bringing back the fire from Africa to this nation to remind it of its calling and its destiny, and its history. With its integration and positioning, the OFNC is pivotal in uniting with indigenous churches, engaging with local community. The OFNC can help by being a united prophetic voice that speaks back to the homeland to say, Arise and Shine for your light has come!

Reverend Chris Dariya was inside the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Wusasa, Zaria, northern Nigeria, when it was attacked by a suicide bomber in June this year. The bombing, which left two dead and more than 50 seriously injured, made international headlines.

BOKO HARAM Clear and Present Danger hen a joint team from Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) met Reverend Dariya in August, he told them that the bomber, whom eyewitnesses describe as sweating profusely, had accelerated his vehicle into the church gate, which disintegrated on impact.

The force of the blast destroyed part of the children’s church, where Sunday school was in progress, killing two at the door. A Sunday school teacher was killed after a large piece of shrapnel left a hole in his chest. He had just left the building after asking the class to point at him and recite the last verse of Psalm 23: “surely goodness and mercy shall follow YOU all the days of your life...”. A seven month old baby was also killed by shrapnel wounds to the skull while in the arms of a teenage girl, whose fingers were nearly severed by flying debris. She remains

aim that is in direct opposition to Nigeria’s multi-ethnic, multi-religious traditions. As it has become clearer that creating a Sharia state throughout Nigeria may be more difficult than anticipated, the group appears to have settled for the religious cleansing of the north, redoubling its attacks on southern and indigenous Christians, and giving those remaining the option of conversion or death.

deeply traumatised, unable to recall what happened that day, but only aware that she is “very sad”. This bombing follows a similar pattern of several increasingly well-coordinated attacks by the Islamist militia Boko Haram that have occurred primarily in northern and central Nigeria in recent years, spawning many column inches asking who they are, and what they want. So, who are they? Boko Haram means “Western education is sinful” in the Hausa language. Boko Haram was founded in 2002, styling itself as “The Taliban” and seeking the elimination of the federal state and the supposedly western influences of Christianity and education. The group began systematically attacking Christian and federal targets in the northern states of Yobe and Borno in 2003-4, before being defeated by federal forces and later coming to some sort of accommodation with northern political leaders. Then in 2009 it launched simultaneous uprisings in four northern states before being beaten back to its Borno headquarters, where Christians were used as human shields against surrounding federal forces, and were forcibly converted or beheaded. After the fall of the headquarters and subsequent capture and extrajudicial killing of leader Mohammed Yusuf in 2009, the group scattered, returning the following year to conduct multiple attacks culminating in December bombings in Jos, capital of majority-Christian Plateau State, which claimed 80 lives. Boko Haram was also blamed for the New Year’s Eve attack on Abuja army barracks, and gained international notoriety with the bombings of the police headquarters and the UN building in Abuja in the summer of 2011.The group has since claimed responsibility for bombing other federal targets such as military checkpoints and government schools; however it particularly targets Christian churches and suburbs, and Muslim clerics or politicians who openly oppose it. From its inception Boko Haram articulated the desire for a Sharia state governed by its own peculiar brand of Islam, an

Thus for Christians in this area, the future is stark: unless Boko Haram is stopped, their safety cannot be guaranteed. There are reports of many southerners fleeing the region and large numbers of Christians from tribes indigenous to the north vacating key towns in Yobe and Borno States for the relative safety of other areas. However, the random targeting of church services in different states means that people count the costs each time they attend. Despite the uncertainties, there is a determination to cling to their faith regardless of this cost, and as attackers continue to sporadically evade security arrangements there has been a renewal of earnest prayer in recognition of the fact that the only sure source of hope and safety is the God who has removed the sting of death and stands victorious over the grave. Boko Haram is rumoured to have powerful sponsors, even among government officials and the security services, and is extremely well-funded and equipped. Although the group claims to fight for Muslims in Nigeria, the violence has claimed the lives of innocent civilians, including Muslims. Reverend Yunusa Nmadu of ECWA in Tudun Nupawa, Kaduna, and CEO of CSW Nigeria, has warned of “a systematic advancement of the Boko Haram menace towards the southern part of Nigeria” following attacks in Kogi State: “I am afraid if nothing proactive is done, Boko Haram may soon throw the entire country into total anarchy, which is their ultimate desire.” The stakes could not be higher; as the government battles to quell the Boko Haram insurgency, it is fighting for nothing less than the fabric of Nigeria’s multi-ethnic, multi-religious identity, and it’s continuation as one nation. By Kiri Kankhwende

About Kiri Kiri Kankhwende is the Press Officer for Christian Solidarity Worldwide, a Christian organisation working for religious freedom through advocacy and human rights, in the pursuit of justice.

Nigeria Prayers UK Board

Rev. (Dr) Moses Aransiola, National Director Nigeria Prays

NIGERIA PRAYS Nigeria Prays is a non-denomination Christian forum led by Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Dr Yakubu Gowon (GCFR). Nigeria Prays aims to mobilise all Nigerians to pray fervently for the country.

General (Dr) Yakubu Gowon (GCFR), Nigeria Ex-Head of State (1966 – 1975)

Apostle Alfred Williams Chairman Nigeria Prays UK

Pastor Leke Sanusi UK Coordinator Nigeria Prays

Dr Albert Okoye Secretary General Nigeria Prays UK

igeria Prays is a non-denominational Christian forum convened by Nigeria’s former Head of State, retired General (Dr.) Yakubu Gowon (Head of State from 1966 – 1975). Its mission statement includes mobilising “all Nigerians to regular, fervent and resultoriented prayers...” aimed at seeking God’s face for the healing and transformation of the nation. Promotion of patriotism, transparency and virtuousness in the citizenry and governance are among the targeted outcomes.

forum, Nigeria Prays UK (NPUK) was convened amidst great enthusiasm and support from the Diaspora Christian leaders such as Apostle Alfred Williams (current chairman of the board), Pastors Agu Irukwu, Ade Omooba, Leke Sanusi and Jonathan Oloyede. The first UK Prayer rally was hosted by Pastor Agu Irukwu, senior pastor, Jesus House for All Nations, Brent Cross, London. Subsequent rallies were held at RCCG Victory house, London, under the supervision of Pastor Leke Sanusi whilst the just concluded 2012 rally was hosted by Apostle Alfred Williams’ church, Christ Faith Tabernacle.

The organisation encourages people to engage in prayers; Weekly prayer meetings; Prayer cell meetings; Solemn assemblies (Holy Convocations) and round the clock Prayer Watches.

In the last year, the NPUK has witnessed a significant improvement and a change in direction under the current board in that there has been spirited attempt to engage the grassroots by using the extensive national branches of the Overseas Fellowship of Nigerian Christians (OFNC).This has perhaps been enhanced by the fact that the present Secretary General of the forum is also the incumbent National Chairman of the OFNC. Dr Okoye enthusiastically informed me that over fifty churches were represented at the penultimate planning meeting of the forum in June and that they have since initiated an on-line prayer meeting for pastors. He also informed me that given the increased awareness of NPUK there is a consideration for starting another rally in the midlands to make it easier for Nigerians in the northern part of the country to participate less strenuously. Dr Okoye further expressed the desire that more Diaspora Christians of Nigerian extraction would embrace the laudable vision of lifting up the country in prayers whilst we also explore pragmatic solutions to the perennial seemingly insoluble struggles of the average Nigerian. He called on Nigerian Church Leaders in the UK to connect with the vision of NPUK by at least initially joining the on-line prayer sessions as a way of heralding collaborative working and fostering unity.

Apart from an annual National Day of Prayer and Thanks giving held in the capital Abuja, Prayer rallies are organised in each of the six geo-political zones of the country. State, local government and International prayer rallies are also held annually.. General Gowon modestly attributes the establishment of the forum to “the good people of Nigeria living abroad” who lamented the sour state of affairs in the country and her near pariah state and asked him to assist in convening a national prayer event. He had then approached the government of the day in his characteristic methodical and law-abiding manner to ward off undue suspicion or misunderstanding. He readily attributes the positive reception he received to God’s munificence, which according to him, has personified the enthusiasm and support the vision has enjoyed nationally and internationally. The General reminisced on God’s guidance and divine appointment that brought him in contact with his many ‘generals’ including the current National Director, Reverend Moses Aransiola and Assistant National Director, Evangelist Austin Kemie.They have work very closely with Area Coordinators and a retinue of volunteer staff in organising nationwide year-round prayer rallies since its inauguration in 1996. Nigeria Prays has maintained a similar administrative structure within its international branches which would normally have a board of trustees, headed by a chairman. The UK arm of the

Contacts: Pastor Leke Sanusi, UK Coordinator, RCCG Victory House, lekesanusi@rccgvictoryhouse.com Dr Albert Okoye,Secretary General, albert.okoye@ofnc.org.uk

NIGERIA PRAYS -Prayer Rally in London on 1st September 2012 he third Nigeria Prays UK rally held on 1st September 2012 at the Christ Faith Tabernacle in Woolwich, London. e theme for the prayer rally was “e Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Vibrant, exuberant worship and heartfelt prayers for Nigeria were oﬀered to God. e prayer points covered a wide

variety of aspects of Nigeria’s government, economy, politics and society. e assembly prayed for Nigerian leaders in diﬀerent sectors, about many of the social ills aﬄicting Nigeria, for Nigerians in Diaspora and for the welfare of the people of the United Kingdom.

PROGRAMME EXCERPTS PROGRAMME SECTION Opening prayer Prayer of forgiveness: Symbolic Reconciliation and renewal of love Prayer of thanksgiving Reading of Ezekiel 36:24-37 Prayer for the President, Vice President and Federal Executive Council members and their families. Prayer for the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Assembly, members of the National Assembly and their families. Prayer for the Nigerian judiciary. Prayer for the 36 State Governors, their deputies and the Legislatures. Prayer against religious persecution, bigotry, intolerance and insurgence. Prayer for the church, traditional rulers and other religious leaders. Prayer for peace in North of Nigeria and security forces Prayer against the power seeking to frustrate God’s plan for Nigeria. Prayer for economy of Nigeria Prayer against armed robbery, assassination and ritual killing Prayer for the Government and people of the United kingdom

SESSION LEAD Dr (Mrs) Kemi Rev Dr Moses Aransiola Reverend Grace Akomolafe Dr Abel Adegoke Pastor Adejo

Bishop Duke Akamisoko , National Treasurer of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Anglican Bishop of Diocese Kubwa, Abuja exhorted the forum to combine their prayers with action.

Dr Khataza Gondwe presented a Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi, Archbishop of Jos addressed report on the work of Christian Solidarity Worldwide in Northern the forum. He highlighted the lukewarm response of the Nigeria. The report included facts and figures about the Christian Nigerian Church to the crisis in Northern Nigeria. He persecution in Northern Nigeria emphasised the need for Nigerians to back their prayer with action like Nehemiah did.

Mark Lipdo introduced One for Nigeria, a coalition of unity to protect the freedom of Nigerian people and respond to incidents of violence in a comprehensive and practical manner.

THE EVENT

Dr Nosa Uwubamwen Reverend Canon Ben Enwuchola Mrs Fumnilayo Aransiola Pastor John Ameobi Dr Okpenge Brother Andrew Omale Rev Hezekiah Olanrewaju Professor B.N Marire Evangelist Austin Kemie Pastor Yemi Adedeji

THE SPEAKERS

Dr (Mrs) Kemi

Reverend Grace Akomolafe

Dr Abel Adegoke

Pastor Adejo

Pastor Yemi Adedeji

Dr Nosa Uwubamwen

Reverend Canon Ben Enwuchola

Mrs Fumnilayo Aransiola

Dr Okpenge

Professor B.N Marire

Evangelist Austin Kemie

Pastor John Ameobi

APOSTLE WILLIAMS

how they work to deceive but are ultimately powerless. That however was only a part of his education. In direct response to the prophetic utterances surrounding his birth, he was groomed from an early age to be a Christian leader with a specific mission. So enthusiastic were his parents, and so open was he, that as a teenager, he went into villages around his home, spreading the good news and confronting idolatry and witchcraft. He said his first confrontation with idolatry was easy because his parents had prepared him by showing him how the enemy feared the name of Jesus.

MAN OF VISION

He has made this his life mission. In doing this he has faced unimaginable death threats. There have been such devilish plots as attempts to poison and curse him, attacks in his dreams and lots of other occult threats. These seem to manifest when he is at a healing crusade, setting free those who have been held captive by the enemy, when he is visiting a church infiltrated by witchcraft, or when invited to a community in bondage to idolatry.

Arise had the privilege of meeting Apostle Alfred Williams of Christ Faith Tabernacle, the speaker at the OFNC’s Annual National Conference.

Apostle Alfred Williams of Christ Faith Tabernacle has been a man of God for as far back as he can remember. Born of parents who converted to Christianity from paganism and the occult, he became the youngest intercessor in a renowned Nigerian intercessory group at the age of 9. Till this day, he fearlessly confronts the occult and demonic forces. Dr Ife Akintunde talks to Apostle Williams about his amazing spiritual journey. Pictures by Sue Jordan. 46

postle William’s birth was no ordinary one, it was prophesied that the first male child born to his parents would go to England and work for the advancement of God’s kingdom. But why? Both parents were former priests of Yoruba idols in Abule Ifo, Nigeria. His father was a wizard and priest of Lucifer and his mother a priestess of Baal, a Muslim and the daughter of an imam. In both cases, the priesthood ran back several generations. By the time he was born, both parents had renounced idolatry and embraced Christ as Lord and saviour. In fact, Apostle Williams tells me that they decided to become Christians because they were barren.

Thus, Apostle Williams grew up with a very clear understanding of witchcraft and idols,

Yet, three things stand out; he is still alive and victorious, he attributes all the glory to God and he is absolutely convinced that all Christians have the same power to overcome such plots. For his story is not just that of voodoo priests with charms under their robes, it also includes the angels who stand guard to protect him, unseen by others. I was interested to know how he has kept victorious through all this, and the answer according to him is quite simple. Develop a relationship with God by praying often. He recommends every 3 hours and has written a book about his encounter with God in prayer. When you are in right relationship, you do not need to pray for several hours, just to cast out a demon. The key is to give God pre-eminence, and instead of working for God, we should work with Him. That is when He shows up in signs and wonders. He argues that the easiest people to convert are idol worshippers, because “when idol worshippers see the power of God, they melt”. The hardest people are those who are religious but not born again. He has also written about heaven, “My eEncounter with God and His angels”. This was perhaps the most difficult part of our interview, I was asking him to explain concepts that are beyond earthly vocabulary. He describes heaven as “fantastic”, He told me of the more than 14 times God has taken him to heaven. 4 of those times were to receive revelations on Nigeria.

Once, to encourage him, God showed him the mansion that has been prepared for him, after his work on earth is done. He is certainly going about this work. He is a qualified land surveyor and was gainfully employed in Nigeria when he left for postgraduate studies in the UK. Having decided to study for a doctorate, he returned to Nigeria to apply for a British Council scholarship, but then received a prophetic instruction to seek God for 3 days. At the end of this, he received a clear commission by vision, to return to England, but this time to “go and start the work”. In that vision, God took him from Nigeria back to London, and he saw revival. He became a pastor in London, before going back to his roots in the Christ Apostolic Church, and then setting up Christ Faith Tabernacle in 1990. Although he did not complete his doctorate, he has nevertheless not stopped university studies; the difference is that he responds to needs identified when God said to him that the attacks against the faith will come via the media and the law. He has now got a Master’s degree in media studies, and is in the process of completing a law degree.

LIGHT and DARKNESS; there is a clear difference ... ... or is there? He is also a qualified bricklayer - he took a diploma in Bricklaying to encourage and help teach people who are not academically inclined. His message is that we must have a passion for Christ. God does not want us to compromise our faith or seek self interest or personal gain. Once a believer gets to that level, heaven is open to you, and you will see angels and know victories. He also believes that many books on prayer put fear in people, but his book focuses on divine encounter through prayer. Another project under way is a book on generational blessing, a change from what we always hear about generational curses. He cancelled appointments to speak at the conference, because his heart is to straighten the records and bring people to a Holy jealousy, so that they seek God and come to a place of total confidence and so that they do not fear the devil anymore. His message for Christians is in 1 John 2:3 ‘we know that we love Him when we obey Him’, and 1 John 2:6, ‘that we must walk as Christ.’ For unbelievers, when they are still alive, there is still the privilege to find eternity and be saved from hell. Jesus is the only way, anyone still alive will be forgiven no matter how reckless they are, once they confess and come to the Father through Jesus Christ. So this man with a divine calling from before birth, who has for decades developed an international ministry that includes mentoring of several pastors outside his church gives glory to God and encourages us to have a right relationship and avoid corrupting or watering down the

gospel if we are to work in power. His testimony is of Christ’s light shining and banishing darkness. To find out more, please visit his website (http://www.cftchurches.org), where you can get information on his books, teachings and testimony.

aturally, one would expect a clear difference between darkness and light. In the dark, vision and understanding are impaired resulting in a high risk of accidents or danger. On the other hand, light facilitates a clear vision and appreciation the surroundings allowing the avoidance of danger.The term, ‘walking in the light’ applied to Christian’s lifestyle and manner of navigating through life suggests a difference from and contrasts with that of one who is ‘walking in darkness’.

Christians are exhorted to remember a heritage of light as ‘a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light’. (1 Peter 2 V8-10). Famously Jesus said “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” ( John 8 vs. 12). Walking in the light therefore means walking after the way of Jesus. Christians have the ‘light of life’ - contrary to the way of darkness. This light should shine openly and boldly to God’s glory and not be hidden (Matthew 5 vs. 15-17).

faithfulness, gentleness and self-control as evidence of the presence of God’s Spirit. One of my instructors once said, “Everyone is a leader, you either lead into what is right or into the wrong”. We will either lead people into the light or allow them to continue in darkness. Jesus said, “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch”? If we have no evidence of light in our lives, do we have the light of life within us? “I wish I had your patience and calm” is something that has been said to me in a difficult work situation. This is a testimony of the Spirit’s work - I am not naturally patient! Our display of God’s light should not make us puffed up and think we are better than others. We are saved by grace and our light speaks of God’s transforming power through His Holy Spirit and should bring glory to Him alone. When one sees another person respond to life’s issues in a way that is contrary to the light, one should be gracious, mindful that only His grace gives us a different perspective (Ephesians 2 verse 8).

To walk after the way of Jesus, we need help to realign our ways and thoughts. The presence and leadership of the Holy Spirit in our lives diminishes the gap that would otherwise exist between our thoughts and ways, He leads and instructs us (Romans 8 verse 14; John 14 verse 26); and also enabling us to hear and follow Him ( John 10:27).

A popular comment among Christians in evaluating one’s response to life issues is, ‘What would Jesus do’? In other words, how does having the “Light of life” in my life make a difference in my response to the situation at hand? No Christian has this task perfected; even Paul said “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.” Philippians 3.

Walking in His Spirit empowers us to avoid fulfilling sin in all its manifestations as sin separates us from God- Father, Son & Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5 vs. 16-21). Rather, we are encouraged to overcome sin by walking in the Spirit, practising love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness,

I would like to encourage us with Paul’s words in Philippians 1 verse 6, “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ”. And may Jesus be glorified. Mrs Ngozi Joy Nwokoma, OFNC Doncaster.

SHOLA AMEOBI Walking in

His Light Premier league footballer Shola Ameobi is a committed Christian who believes in ministering with his lifestyle. He was born in Nigeria in 1981; he has lived in England since he was 5 years old. He was signed up by the Newcastle United Academy in July 1995 as a youth and made his debut in the NUFC vs. Chelsea match on September 2000. He played in the England U21 side in 2000/01. He has strong connections with the OFNC. Sholaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents have been members of the fellowship for over two decades. Shola grew up attending OFNC conferences. Peter Ikuobase spoke with Shola Ameobi. Photographs by Sean Elliot.

He attributes his success to this and marvels at “how God brings you to the top when you glorify him in public. It just never ceases to amaze me how he does it!“ he exclaimed. Shola’s mind-set has been influenced by John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” This passage has given him a completely new perspective on Christianity. He is confident that although troubles may come to the Christian, God gives the peace to make it through.

ewcastle United striker Shola Ameobi was born in Zaria in Nigeria in 1981 and moved to England with his parents when he was five years old. He is the second of six children.

Shola has a passion for influencing people by living God’s way. His desire is to live his life for the glory of God. “I just want my life to please God and draw people to him”

But getting here has been quite a journey; influenced greatly by his parents, Pastor John and Margaret Ameobi. “Mum and dad never forced their faith on us.” He said “They guided and told us how they would like us to go, based on their faith but never forced us. Their lifestyle was the example.” Shola has been an active footballer since his early teens when he was signed up for the Newcastle United Academy at the age of 13. He grew up in a family passionate about the OFNC. Pastor Ameobi started a prayer meeting that evolved into the Newcastle branch of the OFNC. Shola fondly remembers attending OFNC conferences while growing up and describes

“

I have seen my parents grow over the years. I know that I am still growing. Even my father who has God flowing through his veins admits that he is still growing. And that’s humbling”

I am always amazed at how God brings you to the top when you glorify him in public. It just never ceases to amaze how he does it. 53

relationship with Christ. The turning point for him came in 2006 when he was benched as a result of a hip injury that could have ended his career. His hip had deteriorated so badly that the doctors wondered how he was still able to walk. Drastic measures were needed. He was the sixteenth patient tried on a new medical procedure carried out in Colorado that saved his hip…and his career. While he was recovering one of his sisters invited him to a church convention at the Newcastle Arena, which he reluctantly agreed to attend. The outcome was amazing. Shola explained: “So I went and the sermon that night was so powerful. Towards the end of the sermon, (I was sitting in the front row) the minister turned to the crowd then glanced at me as if he knew me but he didn’t. He said “What is your goal”? I was stunned as it was so ironic me being a footballer; I thought my goals were to score as many goals as possible. “ As the words sank in, Shola reflected on his personal experiences and came to the realisation that although football was his passion that lifestyle would not last forever. After the convention, he met with the speaker, heard his testimony and discussed the scriptures. For Shola that discussion clarified the need for and meaning of a personal relationship with Christ. He realised that there was a deeper meaning and purpose to live than just playing football. Shola explained: the fellowship as the gathering of a network of Nigerians across the country. Shola recalled experiencing a conflict between his passion for football and requirements of growing up with active and devoted Christian parents. As a result of this variance things were not always smooth sailing. For instance in order to excel at his game, Shola needed to attend football practice on Sundays but also had to attend Sunday morning services with his family. How was this conflict resolved? He believes that It ultimately worked out according to God’s plan and purpose for his life. Rather than ‘shackle’ him, his parents trusted God enough to allow him do things his own way. They prayed that God would work it all out in the end. Shola said: “The amount of prayer that has gone into not only my life but my brothers and sisters’ is immense.” He noted that “Friends and family have been so instrumental in that also.”

Shola’s parents have no doubt left a deep and lasting impression on him by the way they live. He learned from them never to be ruffled in any situation even when things seem to be going wrong. He believes that as long as you align with God, it will all work out well in the end. He said ““Sometimes I marvel at my Dad, his calmness in situations where panic would normally be displayed, his unrelenting faith regardless of the situation and his belief that God will take care of everything and that’s something that I’ve noticed over the years, subconsciously or otherwise” He knows from watching his parents that the Christian life is a journey and a process. “I have seen my parents grow over the years. I know that I am still growing. Even my father who has God flowing through his veins admits that he is still growing. And that’s humbling” Despite his Christian upbringing and the great example of his parents, Shola still had to find his own

“That was when I really started understanding what God can do and how he can transform our lives. As I was recovering, I had a lot of time to think and reflect. For the first time I really thought hard about where I wanted to take my life and that was to commit myself to Christ.” Faith in Christ has transformed Shola’s life and given him a balanced approach to life. It has helped him deal with the vicissitudes of life, In his marriage to Jennifer and in being a father to their young daughter. He sees maintaining his relationship with Christ as a process that requires daily attention. Everyday Shola reads the Bible and prays with his wife and daughter. Shola explained his perspective on Jesus’ command to seek the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). He observed that material things that we spend so much of our time chasing do not endure. He noted that though in his privileged position he can afford to buy many nice things, they can be enjoyed but none of them can

really bring true happiness. Shola beams: “For me the happiness I get is from knowing God and allowing him to affect my life and having my family around me. That is the essence of who I am now-seek him first, because that is who’s going to provide the real joy the everlasting joy and I take that with me wherever I go whether in Newcastle, New York, London or wherever. Who is Jesus to You? “For me, Jesus Christ is the person who has given me that second chance to do it right. A lot of times some Christians focus on general things, the expected; like going to church but not really listening to or understanding how God wants you to live your life. That’s such an important lesson that I’ve learned over the years. It’s not just about going to church, helping people; it’s about your relationship with God.” Shola continued, “Christ has given me new life, opened my eyes, and given me the ability to have a relationship with God and that for me is the most important thing.” Shola’s Christian faith is common knowledge on and off the pitch and whilst he is not aggressively evangelical, he consistently demonstrates his faith through his lifestyle. As a result many people have responded more positively to his faith. He explains: “People are more receptive to me being a Christian now than when I initially announced my faith, as they see me living it day-to-day, they are more respectful.” Shola is always ready to talk about his faith and is often invited to speak to young people. He has seen people come to Christ over the years as a result of hearing his testimony. Shola has been a good role model to his brothers and he personally believes that he has set a good example. He felt it was important to set the standard as the oldest boy in the household. His brothers have also carved their own niches as professional footballers, inspired by him.Tomi (born 1988) plays for the Icelandic club - Grindavik. His youngest brother, Sammi (born 1992) also plays for Newcastle United.

THE

OLYMPIC Phenomena... A public revelation of champions! “These were happy and glorious Games,” said the IOC President, Dr Jacques Rogge. “And now, in accordance with tradition, I declare the Games of the 30th Olympiad closed and call upon the youth of the world to assemble in Rio in 2016.” 56

nd with those words the London 2012 Olympic Games came to an end, but its legacy will live long in the nations’ memories. Amid the rumbling controversies surrounding the opening ceremonies as being too elitist or leftist, there was unanimity in extolling the champions and legends that emerged during the Games.

What superlative could describe the lightning Usain Bolt as he slices through the tense air that generated a trailing turbulence that blew the competition away; or what can compare to the sight of the elegant Allyson Felix (USA female sprinter) as she glides down the home-straight like a gazelle to claim her double gold. What could match the tension generated on the final lap of the 5km race when the indomitable Mo Farah grit his teeth and drew strength from the 80,000 cheering crowd as a catalyst to switch on the after-burner and leave the competition trailing. Or who will have the temerity to

deny the winsome Jessica Ennis, who outfought and outclassed her opponents in the cocktail of seven events, as the Olympian Queen for her infectious personality and fighting spirit. The achievements of the gallant David Rudisha (800m), the baby-faced assassin Nicola Adams (female boxer) or the indefatigable Michael Phelps (swimming), among many others are no less remarkable. All these champions and legends stood out like beacons at the end of the Games, but they were not created by the Games, only revealed! They were created before Games began, in the gyms, the rough bushes and the inhospitable mountains. The Games only acted like an X-ray to reveal their preparation and preparedness, the class of material they are made of, and put a “champion” stamp on the real McCoy! THE MAKING OF CHAMPIONS hampions are ‘cooked’ and fashioned in the crucible of the hidden and uncomfortable bootcamps where no one is watching or cheering.The finished products are then tested for their quality and revealed in the floodlit public stages of tournaments, amid the cheering and clapping of the spectators.

Champions in any area of life – health, wealth or any special skill – can only be realised through unwavering dedication to training. Day-dreaming of becoming a champion will create a champion dreamer, not a real world champion. “How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep?” (Prov 6:9) Do not be deceived by the commission-based charlatans – in financial sector, dieting & weight loss, and even in the ‘church’ – who prowl about to lure the ignorant, gullible and lazy into taking short-cuts to becoming

champions, only to realise their folly when it is too late. Every endeavour or skill has its structured training programme that cannot be circumvented. We all have the championship seed within us. But it must be cultivated to grow into the champion tree. Unless dreams act as catalysts to energise and spur us to training and growth, they become nothing more than ‘feel-good’ poison pill for the sluggard that incapacitates him to real world stupor and poverty. “He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.” (Prov 28:19) Mo Farah was revealed as a class champion in the 10km and 5km events. He knew and did what it takes to be a champion. His lifetime motto is – “DON’T DREAM OF WINNING. TRAIN FOR IT!” He collected two gold medals. Let the same motto be your legacy from the 30th Olympiad. by Dr Victor K. Nwegbu

“

Lord, why am I here, is it to do a PHD, is that all?

Godly parents John and Margaret Ameobi

astor John Ameobi has been the pastor of the Newcastle Apostolic Church in Spital Fields Newcastle since July 2003. He and his wife Margaret have raised six children – three of them professional footballers.

Role Models

Modelling for the next generation Parents of Premier league footballer Shola Ameobi have been active members of the OFNC for over two decades. Pastor John was Area Secretary for Newcastle for 12 years and OFNC National Secretary for 4 years. In 1986, when he arrived in England to study for a PhD , he planned to return to Nigeria after completing his studies but God had another plan. John and Margaret told Peter Ikuobase how God’s plan unfolded in their family as they faithfully obeyed. spoke about faith, guidance and raising their children By Peter Ikuobase. Photographs by Sue Jordan 58

Pastor John Ameobi did not set out to be a pastor although he had always felt a call to touch lives for God through evangelical outreach work. After lecturing for several years in Nigeria, he came to Newcastle in 1986 to study for a PhD in Agricultural Engineering. Pastor John was convinced that his PhD could not be the only reason God made a way for him to come to the UK. He consequently embarked on a sevenday prayer and fasting exercise to seek God’s next step for his life. .His main prayer point was: “Lord, why am I here, is it to do a PhD, is that all?” By the third day into his fast, he was led to start praying specifically for Nigeria and the UK. Soon after the period of fasting and prayer, Pastor John began praying and studying the bible with groups of other Christians. One of the groups grew into about forty to fifty families, meeting regularly for prayer and bible study in his house. Members of that group came from as far afield as Sunderland and Teesside, considerable distances from Newcastle. In 1988, Pastor John connected with the OFNC after attending a conference, shortly after which

the group in Newcastle became the fourth branch of the OFNC. Pastor John Ameobi has served in the OFNC in various roles since 1988. He was Area Secretary in Newcastle for about thirteen years, with a four year stint as the National Secretary in between. He also led another, smaller group of between eight and twelve people who met weekly in his house for about twelve years for bible study, prayer and counselling. ‘Brother John’ as he is fondly called by his very many admirers preached in small churches all over the country for many years until 2003, when the call came to Pastor the Newcastle Apostolic Church. He prayed and fasted for confirmation from God and although he did not receive any direct answers, a closer evaluation of the circumstances made him believe that it was indeed God’s will for him to pastor the church. On completion of his Postgraduate training in June 1992, Pastor John was awarded a PhD following which he made preparations to return to his job as a university lecturer in Nigeria. In the course of finalising arrangements, one of his prayer partners contacted him to make him aware that he had received a prophecy on his behalf from God in the place of prayer. God had revealed that Pastor John’s work here in the UK had not been completed as he still had work for him. Pastor John recalled feeling quite ambivalent about remaining in the UK as he had all along been looking

benefit of having faith in God and talking to him constantly. Pastor John expanded “we always ask the children: where do you think you’d be today, if we had not been sensitive to the Spirit of God and listened to what he asked us to do?”

Through it all the children were involved. We prayed together, they knew exactly what was happening as we didn’t hide anything from them.

Football is not the only family business. Pastor John’s father was also a pastor in the Apostolic Church in Nigeria for about fifty years. Pastor John and Sister Margaret hope that one of their children would one day follow in this particular family business.

As they raised their children, Pastor John and his wife ensured that there was constant two way communication through regular family and individual meetings. They encouraged their children to be all that God wanted them to be. The application of godly wisdom in rearing their children was important. Their son Shola’s story is an example.

“

Sister Margaret confided that even before any of their children was born, they would both fast and pray one day each month for the future and needs of their children. This continued after their birth and while the children were growing up and they involved the children as soon as they were old enough. Pastor John explained: “Every morning from 6am we woke the children up, sat down for fifteen to twenty five minutes, and we would lead by singing a chorus. We would read a portion of scripture, pick one or two things and if there are needs that we need to pray about as we go out for the day we would commit that to the Lord.”

children to reject God. Football practice was on Sundays. His parents allowed him to play on Sunday mornings and attended the evening service. Shola also attended the morning service but would have all his kits to hand and leave before the end of the service to go for football practice. Since he would have left just before the sermon, the compromise was that he had to attend the evening service with the rest of the family. Pastor John and Sister Margaret were subsequently more accepting of Shola’s siblings becoming professional footballers.

forward to returning to his work and the evangelistic ministry he left in the north of Nigeria. Moreover he had no secular job to keep him in the UK. He nevertheless applied for an extension of his Visa and accepted a job as OFNC ‘travelling secretary’. His visa application was however not granted, resulting in a two year appeal process during which he was served a deportation notice by the Home Office. Brother John and his wife, Sister Margaret appealed and were eventually granted a series of temporary extensions, finally regularising their stay in 1996. By this time, the family had spent ten years in the UK. Obtaining UK citizenship was a journey of faith. Pastor John and Sister Margaret kept their children involved all the way. He explained: “Through it all the children were involved. We prayed together, they knew exactly what was happening as we didn’t hide anything from them. We would pray about it together and at every stage, we would call them and let them know what God was calling us to do.” The couple regularly cited God’s faithfulness in their life experiences to their children as a demonstration of the

Shola started playing for a club in his early years in secondary school and was selected for Newcastle Academy a few years later. He is the only one of his cohort that has remained with Newcastle United till date. Shola credits his longevity with the club to the foundation laid by his parents. He said: “This will be my thirteenth season with Newcastle and there have been loads of people I played with who have come and gone. So to still be at Newcastle it’s not anything I’ve done but the foundations set before me and I give God the glory.” Sister Margaret was sceptical about Shola taking up football as a career. Like most parents they both wanted him to excel academically and did not see football as a viable career option and hoped that he would change his mind. It took a while for her to be convinced that there was a future for her son in football. After some soulsearching, she came to the conclusion that if she had faith in God, he would bring about an outcome in line with his own plan and purpose. There was some conflict between living the Christian lifestyle and Shola’s needs as a footballer. His parents handled this with godly wisdom. It was important for them not to behave in a way that would cause their

Faith in the Workplace: Silent Witness or

Vocal Presence

Over the last few years with increasing frequency, various cases have been highlighted in the media which have shown that an increasing number of Christians have had problems whilst trying to live out their faith in the workplace. A large proportion of these cases seem to involve people in the healthcare profession - mainly doctors and sometimes nurses. These problems seem to have been mainly caused and exacerbated by social, cultural and legal changes over the past decade.

or Christian doctors the major impact has been felt in the areas of sharing Christian faith, expressing belief about Christian doctrine or manifesting Christian behaviour particularly with respect to prayer. On the other hand despite dedication to duty, our limitations and inadequacies are often patently obvious to ourselves, if not to others. At the back of our minds is a constant reminder that healing was a strategic part of Jesus’s ministry, however it is not in doubt that his clear priority was preaching the gospel! Literally in the dying moments of his earthly ministry he gave us the charge …”Go into the entire world and preach the Good news….”Mark 16v15

Every day we come across scores of hurting and needy people who apart from their physical needs, would certainly benefit from a close relationship with a living and loving god. So in today’s climate where do we draw the line? Is it practical, wise or even politically correct to put our faith on display? Using a recent example, I sampled the opinion of a few doctors. I reproduce here for your benefit my survey questions and some of the responses I received.

In 2010, Dr Richard Stott a GP who works at Bethesda Medical Centre in Margate, Kent, saw a patient and at the end of the consultation discussed religion, both being of different faiths. The patient has continued to seek and receive treatment from the practice but his mother filed a complaint before the GMC alleging that the doctor had not offered medical advice during a consultation, but instead, talked about Jesus!

approached during the consultation. However the reality of the matter is that as in this case and several others recently, Christians run the risk of jeopardising their livelihood and professional image by speaking of faith matters. Some may feel that it is a fundamental tenet of the Christian faith to be able to share the gospel as often and in as many circumstances as they can.

On the 14th of June 2012, the GMC ruled that his actions ‘did not meet the standards required of a doctor’ and reprimanded him by issuing a Warning which will remain on his records for five years. Needless to say, Dr Stott is deeply upset by this decision and says ....”My professional reputation has been compromised and I have been disciplined just for sharing my Christian views.”

Taking into consideration all of the above what best reflects your own position and why; 1. Yes - it is wrong to express faith and or religious beliefs openly in any way in the work place particularly when relating to patients.

The GMC confirms that discussing personal beliefs may when approached sensitively help to work in partnership with patients and allow doctors to address a patient’s treatment needs. As such the discussion of religion within consultations is not completely prohibited and that this case relates to the manner in which religion was

2. No - I have a right and a duty to share my faith whenever I deem it to be appropriate and should be able to do so without fear of significant repercussion. 3. Neither - I fall somewhere in between. I would like in an ideal world to sometimes be able to openly discuss my faith in the work setting but understand that the current climate does not support this.

Here is a selection of the responses I got back: I am in agreement with number 3. I once told a patient to listen to premier Christian radio and she made a complaint against me for that. So now only a patient brings it up, I’m not likely to. I do tend to say 'God bless you' somewhere at the end of consultation. My answer is actually No 2 As a Christian, my faith in God through Jesus Christ influences everything I do whether in private or in public. This includes how I practice my profession. As a result I see it as a duty of care to be able to express the love of Jesus Christ with anyone I meet. And I endeavour to do this. However, the atmosphere must be conducive and appropriate in line with the laid down rules and regulations. In respecting my patients' point of view and preference I only usually bring up faith issue at the behest of the patient and with their permission so as to avoid being accused of abusing my privilege position (patient being considered as vulnerable). Ideally I would have loved a situation where I have unrestricted opportunity to share my faith as I like. Finally one of my strategies I have adopted to enable me share my faith with anyone at all is to wear thing that will make people to broach the subject with me thereby making my sharing to be considered as my response to their question or inquisitiveness. -A UK based Nigerian GP I am with No. 2- I feel I have a right and a duty to share my faith whenever possible if the patient needs it. I do so though in the context of their beliefs and not to impose mine. I just ask them if they have any religious beliefs (belief in a higher being) and if they have a religious support system to help them through tough times. If they do, I encourage them to reach out to them. If they don't, I encourage them to seek it out. I don't do this with everyone, only those I have a long history and time knowing me. It also depends on the situation esp. if it's in relation to end of life or some terminal diagnosis or if they openly express their beliefs already.

Hope it helps -A Spanish doctor in the USA. I am fortunate to live in a country where freedom of speech is celebrated, including the freedom to express my religious beliefs. I do strongly feel I should be able to do so without fear of significant repercussion. I however also have to agree with the statement form the GMC that expressing personal beliefs in the context of a Patient-Doctor relationship, where emotions may already be running high, must be approached with sensitivity. Despite the real fear of significant repercussion, in the appropriate setting, sharing my faith is exactly what I am mandated to do as a Christian. -Nigerian Physician living and working in Florida. I think I fall somewhere between #2 and #3, knowing that the current climate both in the USA and in the UK does not support this but I am still willing to share my faith with selected patients if appropriate and their health / clinical situation warrants it. This is just my personal take on the issue.

I would take position 3 I have no right to share my beliefs at any time without permission or relevance. Thankfully the GMC take the position of St Paul 2000 years ago: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." 1 Peter 3:15, which anticipates that Christians will take flak, but need not worry if we are respectful and noncoercive like Christ himself. After all, we would not want other religions or political views imposed on vulnerable people, so we should all play by the same rules. However, faith is enormously relevant to people even in a secular society, and the GMC recognise that. Section 9 or personal beliefs guidance says: "For some patients, acknowledging their beliefs or religious practices may be an important aspect of a holistic approach to their care. Discussing personal beliefs may, when approached sensitively, help you

to work in partnership with patients to address their particular treatment needs" You may be interested in a day conference we run on this, v detailed, v practical. Would your members be interested in attending one? See http://www.cmf.org.uk/doctors/saline-solution/ Blessings British doctor Neither: This is because of a few reasons: Seen first-hand a few that have been affected (livelihood, family and personal psyche, stress) and not sure that individual was worth it. There are other creative ways but depends on a few factors, age, gender, background, condition/disease -I'm not sure7-10 minutes of consultation would unveil those answers before applying the gospel appropriately. This is not being ashamed of God before men; it's rather standing up for Him and with a 'hook in the fish' way. I'll rather start by praying, (vocal to God) that God would send someone their way and He will as He's Almighty Public health Doctor Doctor

Recently the General Recently the General Medical Council issued new draft guidance on ‘Personal Beliefs and Medical Practice’ which is now subject to consultation. It warns that serious or persistent failure to follow it will put the doctor’s license at risk. It recognises the right of certain doctors not to participate in certain clinical procedures to which they hold a religious or moral objection but two areas are now exempt contraception and transgender operations.This is highly controversial and if left as it is the guidance may see increasing numbers of Christian doctors hauled before the GMC. In 2011 the Medical Defence Union (MDU) released new guidance on praying for patients which was endorsed by the GMC. It says nothing precludes doctors from praying for patients but it must be tactful so they can decline without embarrassment. Whatever side of the discourse you fall on, it is definite that sharing our faith is an integral part of our walk with God. What is also not in doubt is that in today’s world sharing of our faith within and without the work environment can have far reaching consequences especially for those in the medical profession. So whilst it is neither practical nor appropriate for us to share the Good News

with every patient, we are firstly followers of Christ and then doctors or nurses. There are variables however that affect the logistics –like how, where, when and to whom. “Where do I start?” I hear you say: #1.1Timothy 4 v12; …be thou an example of believer’s in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. There is no point trying to preach to anybody if our lives and the way people perceive us are at odds with what a Christian should be. Do your best to live an exemplary life using the Word of God as your yardstick. #2. Colossians 4v6; Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned with salt so that you may never be at a loss to know how you ought to answer anyone who puts a question to you. i.e. Be ready and waiting with answers if you are ASKED about your faith. #3. Show genuine love and compassion for your patients…most of them are sure to appreciate it. #4.“...Be wise as serpents but gentle as doves.”Matthew 10 v16. Find effective and non-threatening ways of starting a conversation about faith. #5. NEVER force the issue if they are clearly unwilling and unhappy to discuss matters of faith. #6. It may be good to consider in advance various opening gambits which may come in handy like …”Do you have a faith that helps you at a time like this?” #7. Be SENSITIVE to the Holy Spirit’s promptings-he is well able to direct you so tune yourself to listen for his guidance #8. There have been several amongst the saints of old who have suffered for their faith. Hebrews 11, from verses 32 onwards records that they had beatings and sufferings aplenty, yet they dared to give their all, leading exemplary lives. Their faith was definitely on display. If we are to follow in their footsteps, we must understand that especially in the current climate, PERSECUTION is a distinct possibility. Are you prepared to give your all? #9. Prayer opens doors…….so PRAY! Dr Toyin Baikie

ADE OMOOBA

SPIRIT

COMMUNITY

Christian Concern

“

It is a deception to try and lead people you do not serve.

- FIND, FIT, FUNCTION AND FRUITFUL During his twenty four years as a Christian minister, Ade Omooba has co-founded several organisations including: the Christian Victory Group – ICARE Projects which has helped set up over eighty Christian based social action projects in the last eighteen years; Christian Concern, a lobby group on UK Public Policy, and the Christian Legal Centre, which handles Christian liberty cases. He also serves as a Trustee of the Global Day of Prayer London, a part of the Global Prayer Movement. Ade talked to Peter Ikuobase about how social action in the community, public policy and prayer are the pillars on which his ministry rests. By Peter Ikuobase. Photographs by Sue Jordan 67

Work with the homeless led to the fellowship’s involvement challenging the government about homelessness in the early 1990s. Along with Shaftesbury, Crisis, Salvation Army, Oxfam, they produced an audit called ‘Church Response to Homelessness in London’ and worked with other social action groups. This led to improvements in the amenities available for homeless people in London.

ommunity is where it all began for Ade. He explained: “I was born into a family that was very much community. My parents were very influential, very affluent. I thought we lived in a mansion because my dad wanted to express his wealth. I soon realised it was because my parents liked to bring community into the house.”

Ade grew up attending orthodox churches in Nigeria. His first exposure to the Pentecostal Charismatic movement was when he came to the UK in the 1980s. One day he attended a church meeting with his sister and heard about concepts and experiences that were new to him: being born again, speaking in tongues and the Holy Spirit. When he saw these experiences demonstrated, he knew immediately that life without Christ was meaningless. He explained: “When I saw the demonstration of it, I soon realised that the life that you have with all the wealth you have without Christ is a crisis” Ade committed his life to Christ and within 3 months decided to go into full-time Christian ministry. He became very active in his church. He had very vivid personal experiences of God that shaped his life and ministry. He enjoyed being in church - all the prayer

meetings and the fellowship. After about a year, he began to realise that there was something missing - a connection with the community. Ade said: “It was just like a membership club. You just gather, it’s our own kind, we have fun. If we left this place the community wouldn’t miss us.” He began to study the Bible more seriously. As he learnt more about biblical values and principles, he saw attitudes and behaviour in the church congregation that were incongruent with the Bible. Ade challenged these things and eventually left that congregation. After leaving, Ade and two colleagues started a fellowship that grew to be the Christian Victory Group - ‘I Care’Projects. Today, this fellowship is well known for its strong connection with the community through its involvement in social action projects. Over the years the fellowship’s projects have grown in size and scope. It all started with the passion and drive of a small group of people using their time, gifts and abilities to serve the local community. In the early 1990s, prompted by a desire to show the love of God, the group started feeding the homeless at Lincoln’s Inn Fields. They did this for many years. They started providing high quality but very affordable extra tuition for children in the local community. The success of this service led to the demand for nursery

“

After successfully delivering social action projects, Ade used the same skills to advise and assist other groups to develop their own social action projects. Ade has shown other groups how to develop their own social action projects using the approach that has worked for him. He has given them consultancy and support and been involved in setting up over 80 projects. Ade says: “it all started from that little seed of supporting poverty and the homeless on the streets.”

His involvement in social action eventually led to his call into Public Policy to fight ungodly laws. His entry into this arena was unplanned. After some civil liberty work in Nigeria with Baroness Caroline Cox and Dr Sam Solomon (a convert from Islam), they asked him to get involved in fighting the Racial Religious Hate crime bill [2006]. He already had received prophetic word that he was to go into public policy shortly before his trip to Nigeria. Ade did not have a legal background so he was reluctant to do so. He sought guidance from God - and got it. He says, ““I was amazed that all the Lord gave me was two words; cohesive and coherent, which meant the church would have a cohesive voice with a coherent message, there’s hardly any policy that we’ll touch that we will not overcome.” And God brought the team for Christian Concern together. They were successful in fighting against the most harmful provisions of the Religious Hate crime bill [2006]. Christian Concern has grown from a small group of self-sponsored volunteers to two multi-million pound organisations.They employ over 20 staff with leading human rights barrister, lawyers and PR consultants. Christian concern and

“

services - the group established two wellequipped nurseries in Brixton.

You must find your place within the community and not only in the community you must find your place in God’s plan, you must fit into that place. You must function in that place and you must be fruitful in that place. So the four F’s: Find, Fit, Function and Fruitful. You must find it and everything else flows.

“

Christian legal centre. Christian concern focuses on public policy matters whilst the Christian legal centre deals with Christian liberty cases. Ade has engaged with Parliament on public policy at different levels. He has met the last three Prime Ministers on different issues and the last two Mayors of London. Ade explains, “So we have seen the scope of the influence. And God is so perfect in what he does. All the experience of first serving the community and then now engaging at the place of influence in policy.” He continues, “That experience of God always gives me an immense edge above any others. So I

“

It all started from that little seed of supporting poverty and the homeless on the streets.

engage Government, because of that first-hand of experience of serving people.” Ade loves serving people and says that his education has been in the community, his skill and trade have been learnt by serving. He has learnt by connecting with people at a deep level, sharing their pain and carrying their burdens. 90% of the people Ade serves are not members of his church. Service is essential for leadership. Ade believes that it is a deception to try and lead people you do not serve. In recent times deception has been rife in the Church – it is great tool of the enemy. Ade expands: “We live a lie, we sell a lie, we tell a lie and we clothe it with good arguments.” The lie is when the church preaches love without truth. Ade believes that the church is stagnant today because it has embraced the deceit of the devil and exchanged political correctness for truth. The church is comfortable with many changes in society that are in direct conflict with the Bible. He said, “With a church that accepts abnormal as normal, accepts homosexuality and embraces abortion, it no wonder that we are fighting against the redefinition of marriage today. “ The enemy is trying to defeat the church using deception, which is his greatest tool (see Revelation 13:11-18). In spite of this, we can be sure that Jesus will win the fight. He will present his church to himself as a bride without wrinkle or blemish. That means that some will miss out because they do not make it through the process between the Promise and the Promised Land. Prayer is an important aspect of Ade’s ministry. Prayer is the most potent weapon that Christians have. He says: “The work I do in social action and policy, that’s putting feet to my prayers. We cannot do all of that without having a solid place of intimacy with God. A place where we can relate personally and God pours in us and then we step out.” Ade has been a trustee of the Global Day of Prayer London from its inception in 2006.

REVEREND DR PAUL JINADU 50 years in ministry

Brother Paul recently celebrated his 50th year in ministry. Bro Paul started the New Covenant Church in Nigeria in 1985 and in UK the following year. He now oversees over 600 branches of the church in 26 countries. Over five decades he has seen some unwelcome changes in the Church. In this feature he discusses Christian trends, strategic issues and gets to the root cause of the problem of disunity in the Church today and how it can be fixed.

rother Paul was converted to Christianity from Islam during a crusade in Chelmsford in November 1961 when after seeing the miracles, he had a dramatic personal encounter with Jesus Christ and gave his life. He went to The Bible College of Wales, Swansea in 1962 and later also studied theology at the London Bible College, where he graduated in 1972.

Reflecting on changes in society over the last 5 decades, Brother Paul observed that Christians have lost their distinctiveness and have become ‘too worldly’. In the 1960s you could tell a Christian by the way they dressed and by their values, by their service of God. Things changed gradually until Christianity became popular, especially among Africans, to the extent that people claim to be born again to get on. Christianity became a route to prosperity, healing, employment, children and immigration status. It became a route to improved economic security rather than an outcome of repentance. Instead of being focused on praying for revival, for nations to repent, for purity in the church, all night prayer meetings became the latest fashion trend. The mark of a minister used to be how much he was willing to deny himself to serve God. Now the mark of ministry and proof of calling is the material wealth that a minister has gained. In those days many people did not go into ministry till after they were 55 years old, when they had sent their children to school, paid their off their mortgages and dealt with other worldly commitments. Now full-time ministry is seen as a fast track route to prosperity.

By Peter Ikuobase. Photos by Grand Culture and Sue Jordan How can the church in its present state impact on society? Brother Paul responds, “Before the Church can affect the world, the Church needs to get rid of its worldliness, to start with.This will be painful. Numbers might reduce. Because there are so many who come to church as a refuge and are not really born again.” The Church needs to go back to bible-based Christianity, which includes prosperity but not prosperity at the expense of character. Christians need to be careful not to give power and place and prominence to the devil by cursing their enemies and praying for harm to befall them. Prayers

like that in the Bible are found in the Old Testament whereas we live under a new covenant, in which the veil of the temple has been torn in two. God has given us his son to die for the whole world and it is not his will that anyone should perish. We need to repent rather than pursue deliverance. Once we truly repent, Jesus is able to keep us. These days it seems that salvation is not enough. There is a lot of struggle just to keep saved. There is syncretism in the Church with Christians serving God the same way the Israelites used to serve Baal as God. The answer to society’s problems is prayer. Before God can bless the church, he has to cleanse the church. Judgement must begin in the house of the Lord. Ministers should examine their motives and repent of wrong motives. Many church leaders today are not called to ministry; there is a proliferation of churches based on selfish motives. There are so many denominations today because people have been keen to make it on their own and not remain submitted to the godly authority of a God-ordained hierarchy in the church. Consequently there are people struggling in ministry without a God-given vision, spurning newfangled doctrines to attract people. The bible says that the church is built on the foundation of the apostles and

MICHAEL IBEMESI OFNC Men’s Leader

By Dr Ife Akintunde

The Overseas Fellowship of Nigerian Christians is a multi-layered organisation. Apart from its all inclusive national conference and the 20 or so branches, it also has several groups that organise national events. These groups or ministries are making an impact in the lives of people, regardless of branch, church affiliation or ethnic origin. One such is the men’s ministry, currently headed by Michael Ibemesi, a mental health nurse in Yorkshire. his is a very special man, not only because of his current role, but because of how he got here. He became a Christian in 1985, after taking some interesting turns. From the age of 7 he had started to have dreams about the rapture, but in seeking its interpretation, he was introduced to such mystic orders as the Freemasons and transcendental meditation. But God didn’t give him those dreams to watch him go wrong; and of course, his family had been praying for him. More dreams were to follow, and in a dramatic encounter, he woke up from a dream on 31 December 1985 shouting “Jesus is my redeemer”. He made his commitment to God in the middle of a church service, interrupting the pastor who was in full flow to declare again, “Jesus is my redeemer”. His transformation was complete when his cousin and younger brother (in his own words) “travelled to the village, got out my little box where I stored the instruments of my practice in mysticism and destroyed them by burning”.

T prophets, Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone. Unity is important but it is not the starting point. Brother Paul says that not everyone is a legitimate man of God and you cannot just unite everyone who has no right to start. Leaders need to submit to God and surrender before they can begin to talk about unity. Unity does not have to centre on meetings. For example, a joint services is just that and not unity. Unity has to begin with the leaders. It is easy to be glib but giving flimsy answers to deep problems does not help. To have unity you need healing first. Many churches were started as a result of church splits during which their leaders hurt another church. Sometimes God calls a person to start their own fellowship after doing their apprenticeship. On the other hand, many churches have started with ill-will. Leaders have broken away from a parent church

abruptly and lost the opportunity to learn from mature leaders and grow. Brother Paul asserted that leaders need to repent and recognise that they need others for the walk towards unity to begin. Otherwise the church will end up with a body praying together when the heads are in competition with each other – there is no real unity in that. Brother Paul sees a unique role for the OFNC to hear out leaders and understand the roots of the problem. “As an independent group with no axe to grind, the OFNC is well positioned to find out why there is division, to bring leaders together and facilitate reconciliation. After reconciliation, leaders can meet on the platform of unity as friends rather than people carrying hurts.” This ministry of reconciliation is suited to an inter-denominational organisation such as the OFNC, which has a specific objective to bring together the different churches on a platform of unity. No single church can fulfil this role.

Michael believes that everything that has happened to him since then has been by divine direction, including his marriage and move to the UK. In addition to his busy professional life, he is currently an elder at the Bridge Street Pentecostal Church in Leeds. He has also headed other organisations, including the Igbo Union, Yorkshire and Northern England. He was also a regional role model in the recently concluded government National REACH role model programme, run by the Windsor Fellowship. But when God called him to be the leader of OFNC’s men’s ministry, he was certain that it was a mistake. He recalls that it was a very rough time for him, to the extent that he had prayed to God “I just wish that you will now leave me alone as these expectations are causing me great distress”. He says he had begun to feel abandoned, but after that prayer, he felt much

better. But 3 days later ... the Area Secretary of his branch told him there was a message from the national chairman. Not only was he asked to chair the committee that organised the OFNC Annual National Conference in 2009, he was also requested to head the newly formed men’s ministry. He did not believe he could deliver on one, let alone both responsibilities, but his wife encouraged him to pray about it, and he did. And God gave him peace and has crowned his efforts with great success. His vision is to see the men’s ministry “develop into a strong body of Christ where the men are aware of the real purpose of God in planting us in this land as fruits of righteousness for a time like this.” He believes that as men in Diaspora, we are God’s missionary bands to this nation. Each man should therefore engage in some way with this purpose to usher in the new wave of church movement that will lift His name up on High until His glory comes down. According to him, “this calls for men to be effective husbands to our wives, strong role models to our children, influential leaders in our churches and progressive transformers of our communities!” It also involves a shared deep understanding that men in the fellowship need to occupy for Him until he comes! As the first men’s coordinator, he believes his role is to lay down the foundation of a strong men’s fellowship, by developing a five year strategic plan. Among the key objectives of this plan are the development of strong men’s groups in branches and the organisation of national events to inspire, challenge, educate and increase networking opportunities. Although the development of men’s ministry in the various branches is still a challenge, Michael Ibemesi is optimistic that soon, every man will “catch the vision of the fellowship and run with it”. He believes that the ministry is now gaining momentum and he is confident that “the next generation of leaders that will keep on fulfilling God’s purpose in our time” are already being nurtured.

“ OFNC National Women's Coordinator r (Mrs) Bola Kehinde, a medical doctor, has successfully convened several conferences since she became National Women’s Coordinator. These included the ‘Women in Business’, the June National Conferences and Widows’ Day Out.

Having been a Christian for over two decades, she is still working out her salvation with fear and trembling. She said “I became born again in 1987 during my Youth Service Corp in Nigeria, at a Full Gospel Businessmen’s meeting. I give glory to God who has been sustaining, helping and keeping me in Him”. Dr Kehinde’s work with the OFNC Women’s ministry includes so many

“

DR BOLA KEHINDE

...about 10 months earlier, I received (word) that I would be the next coordinator and I said, God no it’s too big a responsibility for me. But I thank God for His faithfulness, He is doing it all.

diverse roles and responsibilities. But the primary focus is to help, enable, support and encourage women find spiritual fulfilment in Christ Jesus. Under the banner of this ministry, there are various branches that meet at different dates and times across the UK. Each branch operates differently. General procedures, meeting times and venues are usually agreed by the branch members. This includes activities planned for the year that cover various aspects of womanhood including but limited to prayer, fasting, bible study, beauty, physical fitness, keeping the home, health awareness, cooking, outings, reaching out to the poor, weak and lonely and Influencing the communities these godly women live in through good works such as evangelism and or gifts to nursing homes.

The Women’s Ministry also meets annually during UK wide in order to make an even bigger impact in their various environments. These conferences provide the opportunity for all branches across the UK to come together to not only fellowship but also provide a wider platform for these lovely women to share knowledge, experiences, networking opportunities in order to enhance and sustain unity between the branches. The second conference which is held in November focuses and addresses Finance, Business, Careers, Leadership and Ministry. Dr Kehinde said, “I believe the Women’s Ministry has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the OFNC and body of Christ as a whole. As you know, women play vital roles in the work of the ministry, having a strong ‘neck’ for the ‘head’ enables the head stand straight and functional. Our conference themes and various group activities are to make us STRONG WOMEN OF PURPOSE AND VISION working to please the master. It serves in uniting the Churches as one body. This was also evident in our June 2012 conference. There were over 400 women from different denominations (RCCG, Elim, New Covenant, Apostolic Church, different Pentecostal churches to name a few). The ministry also focuses on caring for the widows. We had a pampering spa day out for the widows. This was to give them a relaxing day just for themselves”.

There are several other programs run by the Women’s Ministry. There is the ‘Women in Business and Leadership Conference’ 10th November 2012 in London, themed ‘Going for Gold’ , which is all about being the best. And the OFNC couples weekend away, which will be in February 2013. This offers couples the opportunity to solidify their relationship in a relaxed environment and build stronger homes. Dr Kehinde personally believes that the ministry is a blessing that helps and sustains women in the name of Jesus. The focus on how the women’s lives reflect their relationship with Jesus. As she proclaims, “Jesus is my loving father and Saviour who lifted me from the miry clay onto a solid rock. He delivered me from the powers of darkness and gave me a hope and a future. He is my priority”.

Dr Kehinde is the 4th coordinator of this ministry and has kept up the good work of her predecessors who began this work as a result of 3 local women’s conferences which were organized by the OFNC Women’s group in Manchester (1993 -1995) and also the launch of the OFNC Women’s group in Newcastle (1994). They saw a need and decided to provide for this need. This good work has continued onwards and upwards for nearly two decades. She is a leader whose humility and refusal to remove God from the spotlight is truly admirable. She repeats over and over again, that “it was God’s grace” that has been helping and supporting the ministry from the very beginning. Having been nominated to take over from the previous coordinator, she said that “I think about 10 months earlier, I received word that I would be the next Coordinator and I said, God no it’s too big a responsibility for me. But I thank God for His faithfulness, He is doing it all”.

OFNC Women’s National Conference O

FNC Women’s National Conference 2012 was held on Saturday 2nd June 2012 at Wirral Christian Centre in Wirral. The guest speaker was Reverend Atinuke Omisade. There were workshops covering diverse areas such a mental health, ageing, love and marriage.

THE SPEAKERS

Rev Mrs AtinukeOmisade Main speaker New Covenant Church

Pastor Mrs Chi Ezeh Christian Women of Influence (CWOI) president

Pastor Mrs FoluKomolafe RCCG Jubilee Church Manchester

Dr Mrs AdenikeJesusanmi Consultant Psychiatrist - OFNC Liverpool

Pastor Margaret Ameobi Apostolic Church Newcastle

Pastor Mrs Bola Sanusi RCCG Victory House London

Mrs BaderinwaOlusunmade OFNC Liverpool

Dr Nike Adebajo OFNC Sheffield

Dr Bola Kehinde OFNC Women Coordinator

DON’T leave the door open for the

ENEMY ur modern-day prayers, especially in the ‘Pentecostal’ fashion, tend to focus on claiming God’s promises and casting down or binding the forces of evil. Although this approach is scriptural, I often wonder if we spend ample time to reflect on the possibility that our actions could also open doors for the enemy of our souls. The time and energy so spent on personal soul searching could be more productive than taking long fasts and going for endless laying-on of hands in various Christian gatherings, in a bid to turn things around in our lives.

Achieving our hearts’ desires through prayers requires corresponding vigilance in our walk with God. Anything short of this can attract sin into our lives. Consider the example of the ‘man after God’s heart’ (David) who carelessly brought some serious hardship into his life and the lives of others through sin. Had he known that the temptation of sending for Bathsheba would result in the untimely death of Uriah, the death of an innocent child, the sword being ever present in his house and calamity arising from within his house (2 Samuel 12), he might have resisted the urge to lust after Bathsheba in the first place. Also, his ill conceived directives for Joab to take the census of God’s army in 2 Samuel 24 sent seventy thousand people to early graves! Instead of piously analysing David’s errors in the examples above, let us consider our own actions in our homes, churches, communities and in the workplace by reflecting on the following: As a husband, could your challenges be attributed to the fact that you do not treat your wife with respect (vice versa)? (I Peter 3: 1-7)

Would an allegation of inadequacy or incapability against you in your workplace be unfounded? (Matthew 25: 14-30) Could the discomfort you experience towards the significant others in your life be as a result of your lack of love for them? (1 Corinthians 13) Would every accusation levelled against you be ‘unfair’, ‘unjust’ or ‘racist’? (I Peter 4: 12-19) Do you work diligently enough on what you need to do in order to achieve success? (Proverbs 22: 29 and Romans 12: 11). Sadly today, some Christians prefer ‘motivational’ preachers or superstitious religious leaders who rarely or incorrectly expound the scriptures in their presentations. In these perilous times, listening to teachers who say what our itching ears want to hear will not keep the door shut against the enemy (2 Timothy 4: 3-5). Only a consciousness of grace, holiness and righteousness will. Therefore, as a people dedicated to the Lord, let us remember that the requirements for getting God’s attention includes turning from our wicked ways (II Chronicles 7:14); not just the knowledge of His promises of financial increase or the enlargement of our tents and coasts! The word of God cannot be compromised. So, the next time you want to ‘cast out’ or ‘bind’ the enemy of your soul, check that God can vouch for you as He did for Job ( Job 1: 1-12).

Lola Ibhadon Member, OFNC Teesside & Director, Vision Shapers International www.visionshapers-international.org.uk

What is Modesty? One dictionary defines the word ‘modesty’ as: 1. Placing a moderate or low estimate on one’s own merits; not forward or boastful. 2. Observing the proprieties of sex; chaste; decent.

Jeff Pollard in his book Christian Modesty and the Public Undressing of America, says modesty, is a ‘controversial’ and ‘thorny’ issue for the church. I agree with Jeff. Modesty is a tricky topic to write or talk about and it took me a while to figure out how to approach this subject without appearing archaic and judgemental.

Modesty: A Forgotten VIRTUE?

Aloted Omoba

The concept of modesty seems to be fading away in this current generation we are living in, even amongst Christians. Media and society have conditioned our minds to think that there is nothing wrong with immodesty and that dressing appropriately is prudish, uptight or old fashioned. 82

oday’s fashion designers live by the motto of ‘less is more’ by promoting sexiness and sexuality, endorsing self-interest that has no regard for Christian values, particularly modesty.

Sadly, the Christian woman is also caught up in this provocative way of dressing. She does not see anything wrong in revealing a little flesh as if to say, ‘what I wear is my business.’ Parents dress up their little girls in miniskirts and bum shorts, the teenage girls and young adults want to look sexy and appealing in their tightfitted outfits and even married women are revealing more and more of their bodies, parts which should only be seen by their husbands. Sometimes when going on appearance only, it can be difficult to differentiate between the Christian and non-Christian.

It is ironic to note that the secular world, for example, schools and corporate organisations, understands and recognises that immodesty distracts. So why do some Christians try to defend their sensual dressing? That is some food for thought right there. What Does The Bible Say About Modesty? 1 Peter 3:3-4 says “Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewellery, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.” 1 Timothy 2:9-10 also says “In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.” The scriptures above are not telling the Christian sister to look shabby in her dressing. On the contrary, the Christian woman should be stylish and elegant. Proverbs 31:22 tells us that she is ‘clothed in fine linen.’ Therefore it is achievable without being excessive, indecent or inappropriate in how we dress. Our focus as Christians should be on cultivating the beauty within that can never fade away. Many Christians (both men and women) these days blindly follow the media and fashion magazines on what to wear and not the word of God. Romans 12:2a tells us not to ‘copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but allow God to transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.’ God has called us to be different and to live to a high standard of purity and holiness, which also includes our dressing. 1 Corinthians 6:19 says ‘Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have

from God, and you are not your own?’ If your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and you are no longer your own then you must be deliberate about how you treat and ‘dress’ this temple. Corporate organisations maintain a code of conduct on dressing, which their employees MUST adhere to, therefore as ambassadors of Christ we should follow God’s code of conduct when it comes to our appearance. There are no checklists of what not to wear but the Bible says ‘we should work out our salvation with fear and trembling’. When it comes to your clothing, this means you need to be conscious of the Holy Sprit’s leading about the appropriateness of your clothes. If your desire is to walk in HIS light and bring glory to God through your dressing then I encourage you to examine your heart and ask yourself some questions such as: Would this piece of clothing draw unnecessary sexual attention from people of the opposite sex or cause them to stumble? Am I trying to impress man or please God with my clothing? Is my appearance consistent with biblical values of modesty, self-control and humility or does it conform to sensual and materialistic values? I urge you to prayerfully examine your wardrobe and with the help of the Holy Spirit wear outfits that will glorify God and reflect you as an ambassador for Christ. Bio- Aloted Omoba loves Jesus. She lives in Essex, United Kingdom with her husband and daughter. She is a freelance writer and the initiator of the Super Working Mum website where she writes practical tips for the working mum who desires to succeed both at home and at work. She has just written her first e-book- Boosting Your Confidence, 15 Steps To Success In The Workplace. For a free copy of her ebook please visit www.superworkingmum.com.

THAT I MAY KNOW YOU It’s not enough to think of you As the only wise God It’s not enough to think of you As all I’ve got All I need, all I daily do Is ask that I may know you It’s not enough to think of you As the sole giver of life That you alone can wash me new Though, puts an end to all my strife But this, everyday I ask of you Let me, as a child, know more of you

THE KISS OF LIFE When my soul is bowed and lonely When my heart’s infirm and weary Your light shines; I sing Glory! Glory! Jesus you give the kiss of life When the day confers hopes obscure When my inept heart is but a void And your word seemed to have left me Jesus you’re the bread of life You said it will be all right The darkness would last just a mo In the morn comes your glorious light Jesus in you I’ve found life When the bills be like a mountain My heart finds peace like a fountain Your joy therein flows like a river Jesus, to my hope you gave life

It’s not enough to drink Of the living water that you give Neither am I content just to eat Of this bread, by which I may live All I desire, all I need Is to know you more, the meal of life © Femi O. Olatunji (HOG Lyrics) Written on 12May 2006 18:25hrs

SO WONDERFUL The break of war intensifies Perils and diseases man’s power defy By His might the heaven’s suspended Surely, He’ll ne’er leave His own unattended The thoughts of his heart’s so wonderful Wonders of creation’s de-mystified We shuttle to space and stand petrified So wise, yet to One we’re foolishness We believe; He reigns in righteousness The work of His hands’s so wonderful

When my days are void of light And my steps laden with murk In your word I’ve found a clue Jesus, you indeed are Light

I thought I knew, I’m stupefied The Price of my cross, be glorified In spite of your size Abba father You ride on the sky, without ladder The extent of your love’s so wonderful

I can’t love you enough; not me! Lo! I know what your love means Before I was formed you sought me out Your life you exchanged for my sinful one Jesus, you’re the essence of life

It’s all for love I glorify Even if it sounds like a lullaby Will I cease to sing His song? Nay, never! Surrender I, to His will and power The grace of the I am’s so wonderful

18-30 Group he 18-30s works within the wider OFNC to represent the broad interests of people within that age group. It also exists to contribute to the fellowship, by showing leadership and initiative at the local level and informing the strategy and direction of growth of the fellowship at the national level. Currently, the 18-30s are represented and ‘led’ at the national level by myself and Sope Obadeyi. This follows a tradition of informal leadership which also includes Esther Ekini, Chichi Eruchalu, Joanna Ibhadon and Chichi Eseonu, under the guidance of Dr Nike Adebajo. We are looking to widen the team, for people to take up the baton, particularly as Sope is taking leave of his leadership position to pursue other things.

We organise events for the 18-30s, based on feedback from questionnaires, contributions via our Facebook group, and what we feel that God is leading us to do as a group. Our recent barbecue, ‘Ablaze’, which was advertised on Facebook and at the Women’s Conference was very successful. It is probably the first time recently that we got the balance right between hearing from God, entertaining each other and just generally chillaxing. We thank the Newcastle branch for supporting Adora, who worked with us to organise Ablaze this year. We are in the process of organising another event, ‘Connect’, on relationships, in November 2012, more details to follow shortly. In addition, we are already planning for the next calendar year. We hope to have the May meal, working with branches to organise a meal for students during the month, as well as our annual barbecue in 2013. Those are 3 big events that will be punctuated by smaller events in between. Please add our Facebook to your profile, like us and follow us. We’re currently not on Twitter, although there is a lot of chatter there. But we’re easily contactable on Facebook, via our personal inboxes and our OFNC email addresses. We are in the process of updating how we contribute to the National Conference. This year, as in the past, we have had an 18-30s person on the conference organising committee. We have also organised workshops, some open to the general fellowship, around supporting students who are going off to university in a very relevant way and around relationships, marriage, business, - setting up your own business and working in business, as well as spiritual things like hearing from God.

By Dr Tijesunimi Afolabi Group Leader

I see the 18-30s as a vehicle for building people up; building up the people within the age group that they can be effective in building up the youth arm of the fellowship, contributing to the women’s and men’s groups and being part of the framework of the fellowship in leadership succession. I genuinely hope that the group continues to feed into all the other groups. I see us as serving and meeting the needs of the fellowship in a way that makes Jesus the centre of our lives. Jesus led, but he led by service. I believe that the Holy Spirit works in us to do things in a way that reflects our Saviour. We have much to contribute, regardless of age, gender, cultural background, whether you grew up in the UK or are a more recent import. As a Christian within the OFNC, you have gifts that are valid, relevant and useful. You have knowledge that you can share and you are valued. I hope increasingly for an encouraging environment that cultivates individual talent. I see in the future, the 18-30s as increasingly relevant in the fellowship. I believe we already are, but we don’t bang our drum enough. For example, in terms of the Youth Conference team and the team that regularly encourages the youth in the fellowship at a national level, coordinated by Martin, who has come up within the fellowship and has been helpful in the 1830s. It is also true of other members, who by virtue of their age and participation fit into the 18-30s. The various worship groups within the OFNC, particularly the instrumentalists have been supported or led by people within the 18-30 group. The same is true of PA and sound system under Uncle Amos’s leadership. So there is a bundle of talent that is being utilised nationally and I hope that branches can take advantage of the talent within their reach and just reach out. They can start off in a neutral place, perhaps a church, or hall, or coffee shop, talk to people, see how they’re doing, build relationships, and I’m sure that the fruit will follow at the branch level. We are here to support what people are doing locally. We look forward to working closely with branches, linking up students who are going from their home cities to branches in their universities, so please contact us with names and we will link these people up by the end of September. I look forward to another year working with you all at 18-30s, women’s group, men’s group and the local branches. We thank God for how far He has helped us and look forward to making further progress.

ABLAzE : 18 – 30s Summer Barbeque 2012 e 18 – 30’s Summer Barbeque held on Saturday 30th June 2012 at the Gosforth Academy in Newcastle.

o when a few years ago I decided to start a PhD one of my paramount worries was whether I could do the research required and still remain true to my belief that God is in all things, knows all things and loves His creation. Historically the ‘Church’ seems to have been against the advancement of ‘science’, labelling the makers of healing potions witches.The 1633 condemnation of Galileo by the Catholic Church is another case in point. So what should our approach be towards research as true believers? Do we accept the version of science told to us in our ivory towers without demur for the sake of receiving our certificates without being regarded as some medieval throwback or worse still in this age of liberalism and tolerance, as a fanatic? Or do we eschew all human learning as vain and burn all copies of such devilish texts as did Khaljiburn the library of Nalandain 1193, a library so vast that it burned for 3 days? You may well ask me at this point what my approach and opinion on doing a PhD was and still is. And well you may ask. As with all things, as I have learnt from when I was a little child, when in doubt… read the Word. Now God’s Word is true and no part of it is irrelevant. It is also so vast, that having read it a thousand times you just begin to scratch the surface. It is, I think, God’s manifesto, that we may see through a glass though darkly, yet behold His magnificence. It is at this point I come upon Ephesians 3:20 ‘Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.’ Of course at first I think of MY needs being provided and MY prayers being answered. But in the context of the universe this verse means more, immeasurably more. Of the concepts and abstracts in existence the human imagination is one thing that sometimes seems to be without boundaries and it is to this imagination that we owe most of human learning. But God is able to do more than the human imagination. How dare we think we know the extent of God? What we do know is that we don’t know! In all spheres of life we see the wealth of human imagination; human imagination put a man on the moon, planes in the sky and the world in our hands through the beauty of the internet and the wonder of the iPad. But remember, whatever man’s imagination may be God’s ability and capacity is immeasurably more. Can you imagine a cure for all diseases? God’s capacity is immeasurably more. Can you imagine a world without hunger? God’s capacity is immeasurably more. Can you imagine a world with no hate? God’s capacity is immeasurably more. Can you imagine a world at peace?

GOD PhD: and the

A tale of two impossibilities

As a young academic, I am constantly intrigued by newspaper articles or editorials that treat religion and science as opposing forces pitted against each other in conflict reminiscent of the clash of the titans. I have always considered very important the opening lines to that poem by Alexander Pope, ‘A little learning is a dangerous thing; drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring…’ I also do not consider mutually exclusive the pursuit of God and knowledge or science. But if the media is to be believed, religion is locked in a cocoon of denial labelling all advancements in science and philosophy ‘the handiwork of the devil!’

God’s capacity is immeasurably more. More to do and not just to imagine. We should imagine what can be and leave the doing to the Almighty. When people research, especially in humanities, we always say, ‘keeping in mind that human behaviour is unpredictable and unreliable.’ This is our preface and our conclusion. But God is immeasurably more; the same yesterday, today and forever, the ever faithful One. For a Christian researcher, this is our premise and our conclusion. Each quest for knowledge pushes the boundary of what we know about the world, and yet God is in everything, both physical and abstract. In any endeavour, practical or academic, God should be the starting point, the process and the end result. Our quest in life should be like Lord Alfred Tennyson’s Ulysses, ‘to follow knowledge like a sinking star, beyond the utmost bound of human thought;’ because the search for true knowledge, should be the search for God himself. Foluke I Ipinyomi

OFNC Youth Conference 2012

MARTIN OGUZIE YOUTH COODINATOR:

artin Oguzie has been the Youth Coordinator for the OFNC for almost a year now. He has a strong passion for youth work. He organized the Youth Programme for last August’s OFNC Annual Conference, one which usually gets a huge turn out from the youth.

As one of the oldest members of the Birmingham branch (which is full of young people), he talked about the challenges of his role. One particular challenge is that of engaging the youth there are fairly new to the fellowship. He has had to find ways of getting the youth involved through seminars, workshops, bible study, sporting events, and other activities that help develop young Christians. This is a good challenge for him as it requires creative thinking on how to get the youth involved. He takes advantage of the internet, using social media like Facebook in order to encourage and generate a stronger youth network, particularly in planning for the National Youth Conference in April 2013. Martin has been part of the OFNC since he came into the UK at 6 years old. He was practically raised with the OFNC, attending branch and national activities from a very young age. 29 years later, Martin still finds a strong sense of belonging with the OFNC.

he Youth Conference was held at the De Vere Venue, Wokeﬁeld Park, Reading from 6th to 9thApril 2012. e conference theme was “Youth Behaving Godly” and the event featured talks, live youth debates, video / DVD shows, sports and social activities.

T Talking about the origin of his faith, he said that growing up in a Christian home provided a sense of belonging to the Christian faith. But for him, he had to make a personal decision. At the age of 15, he made a deep personal commitment to follow Christ and experience the Holy Spirit. At about 16 years old, when leaving home for the first time and going to college, he faced several new challenges. Through these, he saw how enticing it could be to deviate, get confused and be misled by other perspectives, especially for those who are not strong or who do not have a clear understanding of their faith. This experience also helped him take his faith more seriously. Martin is a self-employed Optometrist, providing services in practice homes. He really enjoys the work especially as it provides a lot of variety as he works with different people in different parts of the UK. Martin wrote the book Eye Know: Keeping Your Eyes Precious. ‘Most people know very little about how to keep their eyes precious’, he said, ‘so this book takes an extensive approach to explaining what people can do to make sure their eyes remain as healthy as possible.’ Outside of work and the fellowship, Martin loves to play football, (he is a Liverpool fan). He also loves to edit videos and create montages. Apart from these, he adds with a smile, ‘I have no time for much else.’ by Eniola Cole

DUPE FAGBENRO,

National Children's Coordinator

Please, tell us about the Children’s Ministry and your role there The ministry looks after zero to ten-year olds spiritually, emotionally and physically. It is our aim to ensure that children connect with the Lord in a special way at a tender age. I coordinate affairs and all programmes arranged for the children. We teach them how to love God in a fun and special way. How long have you been overseer of the Children’s Ministry and what challenges have you faced? I have been in post for three years now and I thank God for giving me this opportunity to serve Him. It is hard work looking after children because you have to keep them busy. It takes a lot of time to prepare activities but God is so faithful. He gives me strength for each moment and has blessed me with my priceless husband, Dayo, along with Sisters Grace, Bisi, Liz and Marcie that have all helped and are pillars for this wonderful ministry. I also work with a lot of volunteers and my children. What is your biggest highlight since you have been in this role? It was at the 2010 National conference when nineteen children gave their lives to Christ. It was awesome!

What is your vision for the Children’s Ministry in the next five years? To see the ministry grow and for all the children to connect with the Lord in a special way. It’s not just about fun and games. What plans are in place for the Ministry for the coming year? - August 2012 conference - walking in His light - Prepare monthly programmes for all branches. - Plan regional outing for June 2013 - Pray for each child Why is it important to have the Children’s Ministry within OFNC as an organization? It is an essential part of OFNC because majority of delegates have children and it is best to teach the children at their level of understanding. Parents are free to enjoy the conference and children also enjoy their session. Jesus said: let the little children come unto me and do not hinder them for of such belongs to the kingdom of Heaven. God commands it!

2012 Children's Variety Programme

is clear through all our activities. As much as possible, the programmes are well structured and delivered by appropriately trained volunteers. The variety night has also allowed their talents to be nurtured and shown off in a secure environment. We teach appropriate songs, which minister to them and which they will remember for life. Our main Bible study is pitched at different levels for ease of understanding all to the glory of God. God is lifted high in our worship services. How might the OFNC be more involved in the furtherance of the work with children? OFNC as an organisation has to continue to support the children’s ministry prayerfully and financially. Members should also endeavour to volunteer willingly at all times. We depend on volunteers and can do with all types of assistance, just speak to me and I’ll find you a job for you in His vineyard and your labour of love will not be in vain. What advice do you have for parents for bringing up their children in today’s society? Train up your child the way they should go (not the way they want to go) - the way they should go. Address every issue of their life otherwise the world will address it for you. Pray for your children at all times and cover every detail of their life in prayer. We live in a very corrupt society and our children are surrounded 360 degrees with temptation! We can’t leave them to chance, keep praying. Parenting - it is the best of jobs, it’s the most difficult of jobs without pay or annual leave entitlement. It can bring you the greatest joy or the greatest pain. It is so fulfilling and can be very depleting and exhausting. Each new age and stage presents its own challenges.With God on our side, we can do all things! Don’t leave your children to chance; cover them in prayer and lets all turn to the expert parent of all - Our Father God! What advice do you have for young people? Pray for your parents. We need your prayers and God’s help to raise you up well and shower love on you. Obey your parents in the Lord. Be hungry for the things of God; ask Jesus to live in you; make Godly friends; tell the truth; read your Bible and pray everyday; have a desire to learn; use your talents for God; take proper care of your body; enjoy good health and be grateful for it. Pray without stopping and God will give you the desires of your heart. Thank you and God bless

What are the most significant experiences you have had in the Children's Ministry? We have a lot more children, although its fun, the message of Christ

C N OF

H T U O Y

E N I Z A G A M

GRACE OLUKOGA

MISS CHIBUNDO ONWUAMAEGBU

AKA OKOYE

A Level Award Winners (Left to Right â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Aka Okoye, Grace Olukoga, Chibundo Onwuamaegbu, Dr Albert Okoye (National Chairman OFNC), Ehimen Orukpe, Sara Otung, Professor Adewale Adebajo (Lead Bursary Award Panel).

OFNC Bursary Awards

BOLUWARIN AYANTUNDE

UNIVERSITY DEGREE Miss Chibundo Onwuamaegbu

First Class in Combined First Degree and Masters in Pharmacy University of Bradford

GCSE RESULTS 2012 POSITION NAME First Marvellous Ugoji Second Boluwatin Ayotunde Third Uchechi Eseonu A-LEVEL RESULTS 2012 POSITION NAME First (Joint) Aka Okoye First (Joint) Sara Otung Second (Joint) Ehimen Orukpe Second (Joint) Oke Otemi *Third Zoe Olukoga

BRANCH Leeds South Essex Newcastle

RESULTS 6A* + 7A + 1B 5A* + 7A + 2B 5A* + 5A

BRANCH North London South Wales London Lincoln Newcastle

RESULTS 2A*s +1A 2A*s + 2As 1A* + 2A + 1B 1A* + 2A 2A +1B

*Note: Zoe's results were remarked after the Bursary Awards and she made 3As.

MARVELLOUS UGOJI

Bursary Award Presenters - Dr Albert Okoye (OFNC National Chairman) and Professor Adewale Adebajo (Lead Bursary Award Panel)

EHIMEN ORUKPE Professor Adewale Adebajo

UCHECHI ESEONU

SARAH OTUNG 95

Faith

Woman By Patience Abladey

You know it’s sometimes hard to Believe in something you cannot see. To conﬁdently and assertively state that Someone upstairs can hear you, see you. at he died for you, loves you. at there is even something at all At the end of it all.

Walking In

His Light

Whilst mockers mock, And scoﬀers scoﬀ, Seeking solace in the tangible And the corporeal things of this world, You and I know that somewhere lies A belief that is not associated With the tangible or the demonstrated A belief that does not rely on proof. Faith. Odera Okoye. North London Branch

o you ever feel like you don’t know where your life is going, or what’s going to happen in the near future? Ever get the feeling that you’re just... walking blindly?

Sometimes I feel like I am just walking blindly – even when I have got my glasses on. I wish I could tell you that it takes faith to walk in such a way, but more often than not I am simply lost. It is scary sometimes, not knowing what’s around the corner. But obviously, God knows,doesn’t he? It is in such situations that His light shines. Interpret the theme of this magazine how you will, but to me... God’s ‘light’ acts as a guide, shining like a torch, guiding us through life and the darkest days of our diﬃculties and trials. Andthe good thing…it’s a light that doesn’t require batteries! Odera Okoye. North London Branch

Know yourself I

remember in primary school when in my socially awkward moments of loneliness and deep feelings of exile from all playground theatrics I would sit on the bench next to the stairs leading to where the younger kids played and just stare. We were still very much in the ‘ooo stick you’ Daphne and Celeste’ ugly era, where having the best comebacks to school bullies could and would make or break you when it came to the social politics of the playground.

Out of the many comebacks created, I was always left more baffled than hurt by two.ere was the stupidly phrased ‘I know I am but what am I?’ that always failed to make sense on even my dumbest days and the convincingly phrased ‘Know yourself ’, which was supposed to be a subtle but direct warning, for the other person to know where they stand in the situation and an indication for them to avoid provoking a situation that they cannot, in the eyes of the speaker, handle. ese phrases always in my mind proved shambolic and cringe, so when I found myself using the later at university in a discussion with a friend the awkward memories came flushing in.To ‘know yourself ’, now to me had acquired a completely new meaning outside the setting of play frames and testosterone induced boys. It became so important to remind myself of who I was, in an environment within which the majority of people worked on assumptions only, the little they decipher from your appearance, the way you speak, the way you carry yourself and their social instincts often became the opinion of you they held you too for the majority of the year. Who do you represent? Some say their family, some say their faith, and some start listing all existing philosophical words known to man. Knowing the answer to those questions is so important on entering the world of university for the first time. In a generalised Christian sense, most leaving for university are

leaving from a very guided and dependent environment, in fact you only realise how independent you really are when you are separated from the familiar faces that regularly feature in your life. Furthermore, if you can’t cook now university life will be a struggle, unless you come prepared with a 40 pack box of Indomie. If you don’t know yourself other people will deﬁne you and inevitably you will start to conform to these deﬁnitions. University for most, if not all Christians is a real test of their true relationship with Christ. e freedom of university is the perfect environment in which one is able to ascertain the true extent of their relationship with God [and also the true extent of their laziness]. You begin to see whether it was indeed the usual Sunday morning routine of your mum banging on your bedroom door as the clock strikes 8:00am that woke you up for church on Sunday or whether it was your willingness to dedicate a portion of your day to praise God and thank Him for all He has done.

University is a definite reality check, especially for those coming from a shielded and protective background. For the ladies, university will open you up to an environment with more guys [males] than in any other given place. You will most definitely find yourself in situations where guys, with the most carefully constructed words, will attempt to pressure you into doing things you otherwise would not do. e ways of some guys you may experience will be evident and therefore these ones will be the easiest to avoid. Others will unfortunately be less evident, guys who will lie to you, make you feel comfortable in order to get what they want, these guys are the wolves in sheep’s clothing from whom you must try your hardest to avoid. Some girls successfully avoid these guys others sadly do not, and fall into this almost never ending spiral of insecurity, feelings of inadequacy and an overall lack of self-worth, these girls are quick to earn themselves a reputation, one which is less about their academic achievements and more about their sexual lives, catalysed by the known fact that news generally travels quickly around campus.

For all you virgins reading this, understand that what you have is precious, a God-given gift, do not ever feel as though you owe any guy any explanation as to why you do not wish to give this away. It is not for him to understand or know; in fact quite frankly it is none of his business. For those who aren’t virgins reading this, understandably it may be harder to say no, understandably you will feel more susceptible to falling back in line with your old ways, but just remember your commitment with Christ, remember the day you chose to change your ways and live renewed and redeemed from the shackles and bondages of the past, remember that your body is not your own and therefore any sexual relations with a guy outside of marriage is almost like a thief trying to sell stolen goods. For both ladies, it is very easy to fall and understand that you will not always get it right; such is life and God knows this, all he requires of you is a willingness, come to Him as you are on a daily basis, talk to Him, discuss with Him your problems and troubles as there is nothing too hard for him to solve. Now for the boys/guys, let’s get this straight. Most of you are ‘Malcolm in the Middle at home and Scarface on campus’, in short Babatunde at home and Jerome in uni, please I beg, do not deceive yourself, if you are not about that life, don’t pretend to be about that life. Understandably, you will be under pressure to indulge in the typical university guy lifestyle, and a lot of you will most deﬁnitely feel pressured to take this too far. ere is no problem with having fun, but at the same time as Christians you are called to remember who you are. I am sure you have heard the famous line, ‘be the guy you want your daughter to be with’ and I know some of you may quite honestly be tired of hearing the ladies rain on your parade, but it’s true. Do not feel as though just because you are surrounded by more females it’s an excuse to suddenly forget God and chase a pseudo-heaven on earth. Be about the God-life 24/7, when you can, breathe it and exude it. It is hard, but not impossible. If the ladies have to try, you have to try too. For the guys who are virgins, the fact that you are does not make you any less of a man. So do not feel ashamed. Remember who you are in Christ, your identity and be justiﬁed only by the Word and not by or to anyone else. Stand strong and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in everything you do. Ebisiemen Moremi Ajayi Essex Branch.

Barbara ‘Babz’ Okerenta

REVIEWS

‘The Price of Life’ a song by LeCrae (ft. Andy Mineo & Co Campbell) n his most recent project, ‘Church Clothes’, American Christian Hip Hop artist, LeCrae honestly addresses many difficulties us as Christians face in this world.

Personally, out of all the 18 tracks in this mixtape, the song ‘The Price of Life’ stands out. Basing his lyrics on the contents of 1 Peter 3:3-4,* LeCrae explains how females nowadays are being forced to keep up with the latest trends and fashion. He talks about women who look for love in the wrong places and others who are slaves to money and buying fancy clothes. However, on the contrary, he does offer an alternative for females in such categories. He clarifies that “If you own something you can’t depart with / You probably don’t own it, it own you” (2:22-2:26). Conversely, by looking at the bigger picture, we can extract a different interpretation from this track. We can conclude that even though LeCrae addresses females as his primary audience, we know males also succumb to the pressures to follow latest trends. Therefore, through this track, LeCrae reminds us of ‘The Price of Life’ and draws our attention to what is written in Mark 8:36.* I highly recommend every young Christian to download and listen to LeCrae’s ‘Church Clothes’ mixtape. 1 Peter 3:3-4 “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewellery or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” (NIV) Mark 8:36 “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” (NIV)

Download ‘Church Clothes’ for FREE by visiting www.datpiff.com Twitter : @Lecrae Facebook: www.facebook.com/lecrae Website: reachrecords.com

OFNC Organization Administrative Structure he highest policy and decisionmaking body in the OFNC is its National Executive Council (NEC), which is made up of National Officers and Area Secretaries. The NEC is chaired by the National Chairman who is the Chief Executive Officer. Area Secretaries are the executive and spiritual leaders of their respective branches. The figure below describes the different levels of decision-making in the OFNC.The General Assembly meets once each year at the Annual National Conference, which incorporates the AGM; the NEC meets quarterly. Each Branch has a Branch Executive Committee that meets according to local arrangements. This section features pictures of members of the NEC.

National Men’s Co-ordinator Mr Mike Ibemesi

18-30′s Co-ordinator Dr Tijesu Afolabi

National Oﬃcers

Ex Officio Mrs Fumni Durodola

18-30′s Co-ordinator Mr. Mosope Obadeyi

Children’s Co-ordinator Mrs Dupe Fagbenro

National Publicity Secretary Dr Ife Akintunde

Area Secretaries

National Chairman Dr Albert Okoye

National Secretary Dr Bamidele Adebisi

National Financial Secretary Mr Femi Olatunji

National Women’s Co-ordinator Dr Olubola Kehinde

National Treasurer Mr Christian Abimbola

Assistant National Secretary Mr. Olugbenga Daramola

100

Ex officio Abel Adegoke

Bedford Mr Odo Akaji

Birmingham Dr Kome Efue

Doncaster Dr. Chinwe Nwokoma

Exeter Mr Tudor Chinnah

Hull Dr Modupe Akomolafe

Lancaster and Barrow Dr Olumuyiwa Bangbade

101

PRAYER DIARY SEPTEMBER 2012 TO AUGUST 2013

Leeds Mr Joseph Ogedengbe

London (North) Dr Sylvia Okoye

Nottingham Mr Tope Igunnu

Lincoln Mr James Jeje

Liverpool Mr Isaiah Adediran

Manchester Ubongabasi Inyang

Oxford Mr. Demola Oshodi

London (Central) Dr Emmanuel Baikie

Newcastle Dr Olamide Olukoga

South Essex Dr. Akin Oluwatundimu

SEPTEMBER 2012

START OF NEW SCHOOL YEAR

OCTOBER 2012

NATIONAL MEN’S CONFERENCE

NOVEMBER 2012

NATIONAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE

DECEMBER 2012

CHRISTMAS DAY BOXING DAY

JANUARY 2013

NEW YEAR’S DAY

Southampton Mrs Arin Adebekun

102

Sheffield Gladys Murphy

Teesside Mr Kayode Adeboye

• Pray that our men shall be visionary and occupy their rightful position in their homes work and ministry so as to fulfil Kingdom purpose • Open heaven over the Men Conference meeting to equip them for the task God has for them • Pray for God’s mercy upon Nigeria as we celebrate our 52ND independence anniversary this Month. • Pray for the success of the Women in Business and Leadership conference that there will be a divine visitation upon all delegates • Wisdom from God for every woman to build her home • Pray for divine breakthrough for all who are in business so as to influence our world for the glory of God’s kingdom • Thank God for His grace and goodness in bringing us through another year. • Pray for the success of the Prayer and Fasting programme at TOP house Manchester • Pray for a clarity of the vision for the coming Year and grace, wisdom and strength from God to walk closer with Him in the New Year • Thank God for the New Year that has just begun and ask for fresh grace to have a closer walk with Him • Ask for wisdom and understanding of the will of God for our Leaders • Pray for a fruitful year of great harvest of souls into the Kingdom of God • Pray for all our Young adults, that they will be lovers of God • That God will by His Spirit guide and direct all those who are single into relationships that are His will and settle them into their own families (Ps.68:6) • God will perfect all that concerns our Young men and Women and help them fulfil His call for their lives

FEBRUARY 2013

MARCH 2013

• Let’s pray for all children as they start a new school year for grace and the Spirit of excellence • Let us ask that the Holy spirit will be the greatest influence upon them • Pray that we may all walk in the Light of God’s word in the body of Christ

EASTER SUNDAY 31ST MARCH

• Pray that the Youths will grow in grace and in the knowledge of God will • Ask God to perfect all that concerns the National Youth Conference • Pray that the power of resurrection may be experienced by many at this Easter period

103

PRAYER DIARY SEPTEMBER 2012 TO AUGUST 2013 APRIL 2013

EASTER HOLIDAYS YOUTH CONFERENCE

MAY 2013

GCSES GCE A LEVELS

JUNE 2013

GCSES GCE A LEVELS NATIONAL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

JULY 2013

END OF SCHOOL YEAR NEC LEADERSHIP TRAINING W/END

AUGUST 2013

OFNC NATIONAL CONFERENCE

• Pray for an encounter with God in the power of resurrection for all men during this holiday period • Pray that God will help us to be effective in every sphere of influence as a witness for Him • Pray for good health for all children • Pray for wisdom to perform well in their exam • Pray for grace and mercy from God to bring the United Kingdom back to God • Pray for the National Women Conference that the Almighty will have His way and bless His people • Breakthrough for all waiting couples • Divine help for all who are writing one exam or another • Thank God for another school year completed by students • Pray for God’s hand to be evident over the NEC training weekend • God’s grace and provision upon our families at this period of holidays

Remembrance

In celebration of the life of the late

REV. DR. BERNARD UZOCHUKWU OGUZIE, Mrs Charity Oguzie and family would like to pay tribute to their beloved husband, father, grandfather and close friend, who passed away 10 years ago on 1st October 2002. Bro Bernard held numerous roles within OFNC such as Area Secretary for Birmingham branch, National Treasurer and also pastored the Good News Evangelical church in Birmingham. We thank God for his life and inﬂuence which continues to be felt to this day. e Oguzie family.

• Thank God for His goodness with regards to past Conferences • Pray for an encounter with Him through His Spirit this year as He gets us dressed for service • Ask God for provision and preservation for all delegates this year

Arise Contacts Submission of Editorial content: Arise.Editor@ofnc.org.uk Advertising: Marketing.Editor@ofnc.org.uk 104

105

GET SOME TODAY FROM WWW.BUMPTERMINATOR.CO.UK.

Eliminate and prevent shaving bumps and ingrown hairs on your face, head, arms and legs. Wholesale and retail distributors required. victor@bumpterminator.co.uk

106