By Boluwatife Oparinde
As the Christ Apostolic Church Theological Seminary (CACTS) Ile Ife graduated a gross total of 168 students at the grand-finale of her 42nd Convocation Ceremonies held at the Campus Auditorium, on Friday, December 1, 2023, the CAC General Superintendent, Pastor Emmanuel O. Odejobi charged the graduands to be better beyond their calling.
Pastor Odejobi who gave the Visitor's Message, representing the President of the Church, Pastor S. O. Oladele, gave his charge on the topic "Taking Up The Mantle of Elijah" from the text, 2 Kings 2:1-15.
The Superintendent expositing the text on how Elisha received the mantle of his boss, related that the graduating students were seated to also receive mantles from the experienced ministers seated on the altar.
He therefore charged then to endeavour to possess Elisha's mind who journeyed from Gilgal with his master to receive a double portion.
The cleric regarded Elisha as an outstanding graduand in Elijah's school of theology, saying that, it is one thing to be called, it is another to be appointed.
"Rather than the God who called me, it should be the God who chose me," he said.
Expressing the problems of the contemporary church, the CAC General Superintendent noted that "if we are able to overcome indiscipline and individualism, the church will turn to paradise."
Meanwhile, the Chairman, CACTS Governing Council and Regional Superintendent, Babajide region, Pastor Gabriel S. Dada had in his address told the graduands to "make a difference by leading the church to be more like Jesus and also to honestly look and seek for the truth because Christ is the truth we are looking for."
"Always have it in mind that God is never short of materials. God has always had His spokesmen. God has always had His prophets. He has always had his preachers. Men of God, uniquely called, uniquely gifted, given the responsibility to proclaim His words to their generation. If you are called or given the grace to learn then you should see it as a privilege to serve in the vineyard."
The Provost of the Seminary, Pastor Professor Christopher O. Oshun, in his address, also charged the graduands to "remember the calling of God upon your life to serve Him through ministerial, or sacredotal duties such as teacher or Catechist, or a Prophetess, or a Pastor."
"God is calling you into a life of total surrender, obedience, and committed service like in the cases of Father Abraham and Apostle Paul. Be very clear, until and unless you give your all, your life, your talent and your time to God, He has no need of you, you are of no use to Him," he said.
The colourful event attracted dignitaries, scholars and clergies from sister seminaries and universities from far and near, as parents, guardians and relatives graced the occasion filling the auditorium to the brim and its premises.
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