By 'Gbenga Bankole
Renowned and evergreen gospel singer, Pastor Joseph A. Adelakun popularly known as Ayewa has ascribed all his achievements on earth to God's faithfulness.
While delivering his Welcome Address at his 70th birthday ceremony held at 10 Degrees Event Centre, Oregun, Lagos on Saturday September 21, 2019, Pastor Adelakun said birthday celebration is not a sin as long as it is done in the right way, saying neither should it be seen as a show of wealth or demonstration of fame or popularity.
He said the motive of birthday celebration must be clearly defined because God judges motives or intentions rather than actions.
The Evergreen gospel singer said he considered his birthday as a time to look back and show appreciation to God, as a time for spiritual stock taking through self examination, and as a time for rededication and time for future planning.
The two special events that were featured to mark the birthday are presentation and dedication of Pastor Adelakun's autobiography titled "Stepping Stone to Enduring Success" which is a blend of autobiography and memoir, and a new album titled "New Glory" (Ogo Tuntun).
While ministering at the event, the founder and presiding Bishop of the Faith Tabernacle, Bishop David O. Oyedepo said there are three reasons we should give thanks to God.
He said we should give thanks to God to secure His blessings in our lives, to perfect His blessings and multiply His blessings in our lives.
The Cleric noted that blessings can be reversed if the receiver of such blessings fail to appreciate Him.
He said thanksgiving is a powerful force behind any good thing from God, adding that when thanksgiving is belated it is no longer accepted.
The Managing Director of defunct Intercontinental Bank Plc, Dr. Erastus Akingbola who was the Chairman of the day said he has been listening to the songs of Ayewa for decades even before meeting him and he has never got tired.
He described Ayewa as an extremely humble man and tireless prayer warrior.
"Ayewa is a prolific composer for this generation. He will always be remembered for his evergreen songs. He is a man who understands the brevity of life. I was impressed when I heard that two of his children are part of his band," Dr. Akingbola stated.
London based C&S Founder, Reverend Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi who is one of the guests of honour said Ayewa is a man who has the spirit of discernment saying that she was able to know this when he came to her church in London.
She noted that the life of humility of Ayewa should be a challenge to many gospel singers of this generation.
Chief Ebenezer Obey and Lady Evang. Tope Alabi thrilled the congregation with their evergreen songs.
The event had in attendance the President of Christ Apostolic Church, Worldwide, Pastor Abraham O. Akinosun, General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Rev. Felix Meduoye, Prophet Michael O. Olowere of CAC Oke Agbara, Ibadan, Akinyele Regional Superintendent, Pastor Moses O. Yusuff, Itire DCC Superintendent, Pastor Gideon O. Oladokun, Music Director, CAC Worldwide, Pastor Tope Dada and DCC Superintendent of Osogbo DCC, Pastor Gideon Obiwale among others.