Bishop David Oyedepo, the renowned founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, presided over a deeply moving retirement ceremony for his long-time associate and First Vice President, Bishop David Abioye. The event, held at the church’s expansive Goshen headquarters in Abuja on Friday, marked the culmination of an extraordinary 45-year journey of shared ministry and unwavering devotion to their divine calling.
The retirement ceremony, conducted in strict adherence to the church’s constitutional guidelines known as The Mandate, was not merely a formal farewell but a celebration of an enduring partnership that has significantly shaped the landscape of contemporary Christianity in Nigeria and beyond. Bishop Abioye, who has been at the helm of the Living Faith Church in Goshen City, Abuja, first crossed paths with Oyedepo in 1979, setting the stage for what would become one of the most impactful collaborations in modern African church history.
In his tribute, Bishop Oyedepo painted a vivid picture of a divinely orchestrated union that has stood the test of time. The celebrant of today has never struggled for anything, yet good things kept happening,” Oyedepo remarked, his voice filled with admiration and gratitude. He added, “You didn’t come my way by accident; God sent you my way, and He sent me to you,” underscoring the providential nature of their meeting and subsequent partnership.
The journey of Bishops Oyedepo and Abioye is a testament to the power of faith, vision, and unwavering commitment. From the church’s nascent stages, Abioye proved to be an indispensable ally in realizing Oyedepo’s vision. In 1987, he took charge of one of the church’s early branches, demonstrating leadership skills that would see him ordained as a bishop in 1993 at the remarkably young age of 32.
Pastor Faith Oyedepo, wife of Bishop David Oyedepo, provided a touching glimpse into the humble origins of their shared ministry. “I have known Bishop Abioye since before the ministry started. We have journeyed together from the days of small beginnings, and here we are today, over 40 years later, stronger in the Lord,” she reminisced, her words painting a picture of a friendship forged in the crucible of shared purpose and divine calling.
At the heart of the celebration was a profound message on “Understanding the Potency of Blessings,” delivered by Bishop Oyedepo. He emphasized that divine blessings far outweigh any earthly skills or expertise, attributing the church’s phenomenal growth and impact to the validity of the Liberation Mandate—a divine blueprint that has guided their ministry for over four decades.
This theme of divine blessing and mandate resonated throughout the ceremony, serving as a reminder of the spiritual foundations upon which the Living Faith Church has been built. It underscored the belief that their success was not merely the result of human effort but a manifestation of God’s favor and guidance.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of several notable figures in the Nigerian Christian landscape, each offering heartfelt tributes to Bishop Abioye’s character and contributions.
Pastor Paul Enenche, the charismatic leader of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, lauded Abioye’s commitment to making a meaningful difference. “Making a difference is far more important than just making a living. Bishop Abioye’s life is a testament to that truth,” Enenche declared, highlighting the profound impact of Abioye’s service-oriented approach to ministry.
Archbishop John Praise of Dominion Chapel International Churches added his voice to the chorus of accolades, marveling at Abioye’s exceptional humility. “You cannot surpass his humility. In all my years, I have never seen anyone serve with such grace and humility,” the Archbishop stated, providing insight into the personal qualities that have endeared Abioye to both colleagues and congregants alike.
Throughout the tributes, a common thread emerged—Bishop Abioye’s remarkable humility and selfless service. These qualities, repeatedly emphasized by speakers, paint a picture of a leader who embodies the Christian virtues of servanthood and self-effacement, even while occupying a position of significant influence and authority within one of Africa’s largest Christian denominations.
This emphasis on humility and service provides a powerful counterpoint to the often-criticized opulence and self-aggrandizement associated with some megachurch leaders. Abioye’s approach to ministry, characterized by quiet dedication and steadfast loyalty, offers a compelling model of Christian leadership in the contemporary African context.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Bishop Abioye took center stage to express his profound gratitude for the opportunity to serve under Bishop Oyedepo’s leadership. For me, ministry has always been about fulfilling God’s purpose,” he stated, reflecting on the nearly 45-year friendship that has profoundly impacted both his ministry and personal life.
Looking ahead, Abioye expressed his commitment to continuing their spiritual partnership, albeit in a different capacity. By God’s grace, we will continue to walk in this relationship as we engage in post-retirement activities under the guidance of the Holy Spirit,” he affirmed, signaling that while his official role may be changing, his dedication to the ministry remains unwavering.
As Bishop Abioye steps into retirement, the Living Faith Church stands at a significant juncture. The transition marks not just the end of an era but the beginning of a new chapter in the church’s storied history. It raises intriguing questions about the future direction of the ministry and how it will continue to evolve in the face of changing societal and spiritual landscapes.
The retirement ceremony, while celebrating past achievements, also set the stage for future endeavors. It highlighted the importance of mentorship, succession planning, and the seamless transfer of leadership within religious organizations—themes that resonate far beyond the walls of Winners Chapel.
The retirement ceremony for Bishop David Abioye stands as a powerful testament to the enduring nature of spiritual partnerships forged in shared faith and common purpose. It offers a glimpse into the inner workings of one of Africa’s most influential Christian ministries and provides valuable insights into the principles of leadership, loyalty, and legacy that have fueled its growth.
As Bishop Oyedepo and Bishop Abioye mark this significant milestone, their story serves as an inspiration to both religious and secular leaders alike. It underscores the power of humility, the importance of unwavering commitment, and the transformative potential of partnerships rooted in shared vision and mutual respect.
In an era often characterized by rapid change and shifting allegiances, the 45-year ministry of Bishops Oyedepo and Abioye stands as a beacon of stability, faith, and enduring friendship a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to shape the spiritual landscape of Nigeria and beyond for generations to come.
