By Samuel Olamide Osifuye
Vibrant melodies of over 300 voices and an orchestra filled the air at the third edition of Christ Apostolic Church Lagos Metropolitan Choir Concert, consisting of Akinyele, Akilling, and Pearce Regions.
Led by the choir masters of the respective regions, Elder Sesan Taiwo, Pastor (Dr.) Tosin Akinpelu, and Pastor Philip Ayeni, the choir delivered performances that captivated attendees for more than three hours.
The concert featured classic and contemporary songs which included, John Rutter's "For the Beauty of the Earth"; Olayinka Amudipe's "E Gbe L'aruge"; Bidemi Oyesanya's "Wa mu 'nu mi dun"; Tolu Owoaje's "A si ko l'aye"; and "All Things Are Possible to Him" by Marienlys. Also, extracts from Handel's "Judas Maccabaeus" and congregational hymns such as "My Faith Has Found a Resting Place" and "Didun l'oro re" were performed with heartfelt devotion.
A notable solo performance titled "Ole, Oloju ko kuro" by Chairman of the Concert Planning Committee, Mr. Lekan Oluyelu captivated the audience, showcasing local talent and creativity. Renowned organist, Tope Olagunju also graced the stage with an impressive organ solo, further enhancing the musical event.
Speaking on the topic ‘Making Music when and where it is needed the most’, the President, CAC Nigeria & Overseas, Pastor S.O. Oladele represented by Pastor C.A.S. Daramola, emphasized the crucial role of music in spreading God's message effectively.
He stated that music carries divine power and transcends earthly origins, recounting the experience of the Israelites in Babylon, who despite being sent as means to reveal God to the gentiles, they hesitated to use music as a tool for evangelism.
According to him, "If the Israelites had sung in Babylon, perhaps God could have touched the hearts of their captors."
He lamented that churches today possess God's spirit, promises, and covenant but often fail to utilize music for its intended purpose of winning souls. Addressing the infiltration of worldly music into the church, the cleric challenged congregants to reclaim the transformative power of God's songs.
"Instead of allowing the world's music to dominate, we must boldly take God's music out into the world,"
He urged believers to see music not merely as entertainment within church walls but as a potent tool for evangelism in the larger community.
Two members of the choir, Deaconess Nike Olu Peters and Mrs Amudipe were recognized and celebrated for their dedicated service and having being members of the choir for more than 40 years.
Some of the distinguished guests present at the concert were the Regional Superintendents of Akinyele, Akilling, and Pearce regions, Pastor S.A. Adedayo, Pastor E.A. Olusoko, and Pastor S.O. Aluko respectively; CAC Director of Administrations, Pastor Tope Dada; CAC Director of Music, Elder Bidemi Oyesanya (SAN); Superintendent Somolu DCC and Akinyele Regional Secretary, Pastor E.O.O Oyedeji; Superintendent CAC Yaba DCC, Pastor S.E.A. Oludare; Superintendent Amuwo Odofin DCC, Pastor M.K. Ehinmohde; Superintendent CAC Ikeja Zone, Pastor Emmanuel Adetula; Pastor E.O. Oluseye, among others.
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