2024 Annual Camp Meeting Convention Report

The 2024 West and Central Africa (WECA) Camp Meeting commenced with heartfelt gratitude to God as the Saints gathered at the main tabernacle in Faith City, Igbesa, Ogun State, Nigeria. The day began with Sunday school at 8:45 a.m., opening with a congregational hymn, "To God Be the Glory." The children's program, "Repair the Altar," highlighted the life of Josiah, reminding all of the need to return to God's altar for forgiveness and deliverance.

The Sunday school lesson, "Fruits of Christianity," was taught by Brother Ololade Ayoola, who emphasized the importance of showing respect and impartiality to all, regardless of status. The lesson concluded with a discussion on the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23, followed by a choir performance and a brief review.

At 10:45 a.m., the morning devotional service, which was devoted to praise and thanksgiving for what God accomplished for the church in the completion of the roofing of the main dome of the tabernacle, began with joyous praise as the Apostolic Faith Church in Nigeria celebrated its 80th anniversary. For the first time, the entire congregation worshipped together in the main tabernacle—a testament to God's faithfulness. The service featured musical performances, including "A Mighty Fortress" by the orchestra and "Praise the Lord for He is Gracious" by the choir. After the congregational singing and before Brother the congregational prayer was said by Brother James Tifase, Brother Isaac enjoined every congregant to raise up their voices in adoration and thanksgiving for the marvelous things God has done for the church. “Great is Thy Faithfulness” beautifully rendered by a soloist preceded a powerful sermon on "The Power of Praise", delivered by Brother Olusola Adesope, encouraging the congregation to unite in their worship, drawing from Psalm 150.

The altar benches at the various points within the tabernacle quickly filled up during the altar call and a wonderful prayer session followed.

The first youth service of the camp meeting took place at 2:30 p.m. and was marked by a spirit of fervent worship. The service began with an organ prelude and the orchestra playing "Come, Holy Spirit, I Need You." The choir performed uplifting pieces, including "The Goodness of God," which set the tone for the testimony service that followed. Brother Popogbe delivered the sermon, "Jesus the Great Repairer," based on Mark 1:40-42, urging the youth to bring their challenges to Christ, who is the ultimate solution.

The evening service was filled with worship and testimonies, beginning with an organ prelude and a choir rendition of "Sing for Joy." The congregation sang hymns together, and the testimony service opened with a sister who shared how God saved her during last year's camp meeting, another testified of God's preservation of her life, and a brother spoke of his deliverance from kidnappers. The choir followed with "Why Not You?" before Brother Isaac Adigun delivered a sermon on "The Season of Showers of Blessing," based on Ezekiel 34:26. He encouraged the church to prepare for the power showers of blessing that God was ready to pour out during the Camp Meeting and beyond. The service concluded with earnest prayers, and God's blessings poured out as seekers rushed to the altar.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 13TH, 2024

The 2024 Camp Meeting on Tuesday, August 13, was filled with significant spiritual activities that uplifted and inspired the attendees. The day began with early morning prayers at the Tabernacle, setting a solemn tone for the events to follow. By 6:00 a.m., the compound was abuzz with activity as the cleaning team ensured the environment was prepared for the day's programs. Concurrently, a group of 28 young people, organized by the Youth Department, embarked on an evangelistic outreach to three local communities—Ketu Adie-owe, Akinwumi, and Olorunsola.

The first Bible teaching session of the camp meeting commenced at 9:30 a.m. with an organ prelude, followed by an orchestration of "He Paid It All." The choir's rendition of "Salvation Has Been Brought Down," and the male choir's "Yes, I Know," created a worshipful atmosphere. Brother Emmanuel Mboma, the District Overseer from Edo, led the opening prayer, and a series of testimonies followed. Brethren from the Anambra, Ekiti, and Congo districts shared moving accounts of God's faithfulness, including miraculous healings, divine protection, and testimonies of God’s provision.

The Bible teaching, delivered by Brother Olusola Adesope, the Superintendent General, focused on "Evidence and Fruits of Salvation," with John 3:1-3 as the main text.

He touched on the importance of spiritual rebirth, stating, "Physical birth is into sin, while spiritual birth delivers from sin." His message resonated deeply, leading many to the altars in earnest prayer and supplication.

In the evening, the Revival & Evangelistic Service began at 5:30 p.m. with an organ prelude and a powerful orchestration titled "Praise Ye the Lord." The choir and soloists led the congregation in spirited worship, followed by testimonies from brethren across the Edo, Kogi, Sierra Leone, and Niger Republic districts. Brother Chuks Mba, a delegate minister from Ghana, delivered an impactful sermon on "Come unto Jesus," using John 6:37 as his text. His personal testimony of salvation and his emphasis on the necessity of repentance moved many to seek spiritual renewal at the altar.

Later in the evening, representatives from the Apostolic Faith Corps Members Fellowship paid a courtesy visit to Reverend Olusola Adesope, the Superintendent General, presenting him with a special picture portrait from his days as a Corps Member. The day concluded with choir practice at 8:00 p.m., capping off a day filled with spiritual blessings and fellowship.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14TH, 2024

On Wednesday, August 14th, 2024, at Faith City, Igbesa, the saints of God began their day with early morning prayer from 5:30 am to 6:00 am. Following breakfast, the congregation reconvened for the 9:30 am service, which began with a harmonious organ prelude and a special instrumental performance of "My Prayer" by the Woodwind Ensemble. The choir then rendered "O Wash Me Clean," followed by Brother Tony Ademuyiwa's solo, "Lord, I Want to Be a Christian." Brother James Tifase led the congregation in singing hymns CGS 275, 691, and 390, followed by a congregational prayer led by Brother John Bekoe, the overseer of the work in Ghana. Brother Isaac Adigun, the District Superintendent for West and Central Africa, warmly welcomed everyone and made several announcements. The choir opened the testimony service with "God is a Spirit," and Sis. Tolu Adesope began by giving heartfelt praise to God for His mercies to her family and congregation. Testimonies of deliverance and protection followed, with brethren from Jos Area, Nigeria, sharing how God protected them during insurgency in their region. International delegates also testified, praising God in French for His saving grace. A special song, "How About Your Heart," was rendered by Brother Banji Tai-Sonubi, and Brother James Tifase delivered a teaching on "Entire Sanctification."

He emphasized daily consecration and the need to crucify the flesh to live a sanctified life, concluding with an altar call that saw many rushing to the altars to seek deeper experiences and renew their vows.

In the afternoon, the young people's service began at 2:30 pm with an organ prelude, followed by a clarinet solo titled "Le Basque" and another piece titled "No, Not One." The choir rendered "God is Great, Good, and Merciful," and Brother Naar-Rich Isaac, the national youth leader in Ghana, led the congregational hymns 174 and 164. Brother Olarenwaju Olayinka offered a congregational prayer, followed by announcements from WECA Youth Leader Brother Tobi Popogbe. A select female choir, accompanied by an accordionist, performed "Living Hope." During the testimony service, one sister shared how God provided her with a beautiful job after 13 years of searching. The choir sang "In Need," and Brother Naar-Rich Isaac brought the Word of God with the message titled "Mercy Showed Up." Drawing from Psalm 86:5 and 2 Chronicles 33:9, he assured the young people that no sin is too great for God's mercy. The service concluded with an altar call.

The evening revival service, which began at 5:30 pm, featured an organ prelude, a performance of "Flight of the Bumblebee," and "I've Got a Message from the Lord." The choir sang "Go and Tell the Story," followed by the French choir's rendition of "Ce n'est plus moi qui vis, Alleluia" and "Novi yise bo gan." Brother Yves led the congregation in singing hymns 12, 384, and 678, with Brother Na Allah Ousseini offering the congregational prayers. Brother Emmanuel Moh gave the announcements and extended greetings, after which testimonies were shared by brethren from Imo, Kwara, and Anthony Group 1. These testimonies included deliverance from thieves, protection during travels, and divine provision in times of need. A brother praised God for saving him as a teenager and leading him to the highest rank of academic attainment. A quartet rendered "Sweet Relief," and Brother Kploca Marcelin delivered a message on "The Glory of God," based on Exodus 33:18, encouraging the saints to seek God's glory in their lives. The service concluded with seekers being invited to the altar to pray.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 15TH, 2024

The day at WECA Camp Meeting began at 5:30 a.m. with the faithful gathering at the tabernacle for morning prayer. By 6:00 a.m., the congregation dispersed to prepare for the day’s activities. At 9:30 a.m., the Bible teaching service commenced with an organ prelude, followed by a stirring performance of “Onward, Christian Soldiers” by the orchestra. The choir then sang “The Comforter Has Come,” setting a worshipful tone that was further enriched by a solo rendition of “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.” The congregation joined in singing some hymns, followed by an opening prayer led by Brother James Miller, the Country Overseer of Liberia.

Brother Isaac Adigun, the District Superintendent for West and Central Africa, delivered the announcements before opening the testimony service to brethren from Lagos Central, Lagos East, and Enugu. The female choir performed “Open My Eyes That I May See,” after which testimonies began. A brother shared how God healed him at last year’s camp meeting, and a sister testified of deliverance from idolatry. Following the testimonies, a quartet sang “Seal Us, O Holy Spirit,” leading into the Bible teaching by Brother Mark Mfandarahawa,

who spoke on “Spiritual Power for Service.” His message, drawn from Acts 1:4-5, emphasized the necessity of the Holy Spirit in a Christian’s life, urging the congregation to earnestly seek this divine power. The teaching concluded with an altar call, where many sought the Lord in prayer.

At 2:30p.m., the French service commenced in the basement of the tabernacle with an organ prelude. A flute soloist played “He Hideth My Soul,” followed by the choir’s renditions of “Mon Plus Cher Ami” and “Jésus Ouvrit Le Chemin.” Brother Felion led the congregational prayer after some hymns were sung. Following the announcements, the congregation sang “Count Your Blessings” before the testimony service began. A sister testified of salvation and sanctification received during last year’s camp meeting, and another sister praised God for healing her from sickness through the power of Jesus' blood. The youth choir then sang “Viens à Moi,” after which Brother Kintin George preached on “Quitter l’opprobre de l’Égypte.” He encouraged the congregation to persist in prayer for God’s intervention, as He did for the Israelites against Pharaoh.

The evening service started at 5:30p.m. with an organ prelude, followed by the female brass ensemble’s performances of “Exalt Him All Ye People” and “There Shall Be Showers of Blessings.” The choir sang “Redeemed,” and a duet beautifully rendered “He Touched Me.” The congregation joined in singing some hymns, after which Brother John, the missionary to East Africa, led the congregational prayer. Brother Emmanuel Moh gave the announcements before opening the testimony service to brethren from Ekiti, Niger, and foreign guests. The congregation sang “Just Obey” before the testimonies. A brother testified about God bringing his wife and brother to the gospel, a sister thanked God for bringing her to the camp meeting, and another sister expressed her joy at seeing the main tabernacle. A young boy also praised God for deliverance from nightmares and poor academic performance. After the testimonies, a quartet rendered “There’s a Rock Where Sinners Hide,” followed with the sermon by Brother Seye Folarin from the US, who preached on “Avalanche of Blessings” from Luke 5:4. He encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s provision and to obey His commands, assuring them that God’s blessings await those who are faithful. The service concluded with the altar call, as many rushed forward to seek God’s blessings.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 16TH, 2024

On Friday, August 16th, 2024, the morning service at the WECA Camp Meeting commenced at 9:30 a.m. with a violin rendition of "The Old Rugged Cross," followed by the choir's performance of "Come Holy Spirit." A male quartet then sang "Let Us All Go Back to the Old Landmark," and the congregation joined in singing hymns, including "The Church’s One Foundation" and "Send the Fire." Brother Imeh Nkanta, the overseer for Uruk Ata, led the congregational prayer. The District Superintendent, Brother Isaac Adigun, welcomed everyone and highlighted God's readiness to answer prayers. The testimony service was opened by the choir's rendition of "Walk About Zion and Go Round About Her," with Brother Folorunsho Ajayi from Ibadan sharing a testimony of God's mercies and a sister testifying about God's provision. The morning teaching, titled "Latter Day Outpouring and the History of the Apostolic Faith," was delivered by Brother Titus Itanola, who outlined the church's history and emphasized its Pentecostal foundation.

At 1:30 p.m., the 2024 Teenage Challenge kicked off with a vibrant performance by the teenage choir, singing "God Can Do" and "He’s Able." The theme "Be a Good Example" was introduced by Brother Daniel, stressing the significance of godly living in today's world. The highlight was the "Who Wants to Be a Bible Giant" competition, where six areas made it to the final from thirty one, with Ogun Central area emerging as the winner.

The evening service began at 5:30 p.m. with a brass ensemble's rendition of "He Brought Me Out," followed by the choir singing "Bring Them In" and an Igbo special titled "Goziem Jisos" (Bless Me, Jesus). The sermon, delivered by Brother Joseph Onyeabor, focused on "Total Victory" from I Chronicles 4:9-10, drawing lessons from the life of Jabez. The service concluded with an altar call, where many sought God's blessings as they sang "The Year of Jubilee is Come."

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17TH, 2024

Saturday at the WECA Camp Meeting was a day of heartfelt worship and musical celebration. At 8:00 a.m., Sunday School teachers convened for their conference, which included both elementary and adult classes. Later in the morning, at 10:30 a.m., the Association of Visiting Secretaries (AVS) held its general meeting, which lasted for two hours.

The highlight of the day was the 2024 Camp Meeting Concert, which commenced promptly at 3:00 p.m. The congregation, together with the orchestra, joyfully opened the concert with "How Great Thou Art." After an opening prayer, the choir and orchestra began their series of presentations. The orchestra performed "Count Your Many Blessings," arranged by Jeff Cranfill, followed by the combined choir and orchestra rendition of "We Praise Thee O Lord" by G. F. Handel. The brass ensemble then delivered an energetic performance of "Fuego" by F.S. Speranza Feraro, which was succeeded by the choir's presentation of G.F. Handel's "O Come Let us Sing unto the Lord" and "Voice of Singing" by W. Maron. The first part of the concert concluded with an orchestra performance of "Finale from 5th Symphony" by L.V. Beethoven.

During the intermission, Brother Isaac Adigun, the District Superintendent, led the congregation in singing the camp anthem, "Send the Fire." He expressed gratitude to the about 550 officiating choir and orchestra members, as well as the dedicated music leaders. Brother Isaac also acknowledged the contributions of long-time choir and orchestra members, who have served for over 45 years and were presented a token of appreciation. Remarkably, Brother Dotun Ewumi, who joined the choir and orchestra in April 1968, is still an active member today, and he is the Music Director.

The second part of the concert, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the church, featured a blend of narration, trivia, throwback performances, live renditions, and a sing-along session, all anchored by Brother Tope Makun. Pioneers and veterans of the choir were remembered and honored. The humble beginning of the music ministry from only two people which has grown to more than four thousand all over Nigeria through the dedication of past leaders, beginning Rev. T. G. Oshokoya, was highlighted.

The choir then delivered an inspiring acapella rendition of "Everytime I Feel the Spirit," conducted by Brother Banji. The youth choir then sang "Di Jesu Mu," by Brother Seweje. The children’s choir followed by an orchestral excerpt from "The Sound of Music," some language specials, and "Africa Must Be Saved." The concert concluded with the senior choir and orchestra performing "Ebenezer" and "We Are Marching to Zion," which led into an altar call.

The day ended with the saints of God filled with praises, as various groups held practices in preparation for Sunday’s service.