By Boluwatife Oparinde & Tobi Oyeniyi
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 was historic for Christ Apostolic Church Theological Seminary (CACTS) Ile Ife, as a troop of academic and pastoral dignitaries, Management, staff and students of the institution gathered to celebrate the former Provost, Pastor Professor C. O. Oshun at the CACTS Chapel of Peace in a retirement service.
The Choir of the Seminary spiced the event with a ministration of the favourite song of the former Provost in appreciation of God's faithfulness over his life, ministry and career.
Chairman of CACTS Governing Council, Pastor Gabriel S. Dada, commended the sacrificial life and service of Prof. Oshun to the seminary, and the Church Authority, charging him to remain strong and maximize the retirement stage which he described as an opportunity to do more for God and humanity.
Upon the charge, the Provost of the Seminary, Pastor Francis Ayo Olaniyi led prayers for the celebrator.
As part of the item for the event of the retirement service, the Bishop Theologian of the Anglican Communion, Bishop Dapo Asaju, reviewed the book published in honour of the celebrator titled "African Pentecostalism: its History, Theology and Music", serving as a means to preserve his legacies.
Bishop Asaju, who is also a Professor of Theology at Lagos State University, and the Bishop of Anglican Communion, Ilesa Diocese, described the erstwhile Provost as a humble Professor, Pastor, prayer warrior, Prophet, father, husband, who is loving and affectionate to everyone around him.
He expanded the concept of Pentecostalism as more than just the formal charismatic movement but an experience for every Christian who believes in the manifestation of Holy Spirit as was at the day of Pentecost.
"The experience of Pentecostalism is not just to the indigenous churches but what is now common everywhere," he explained.
In his book review, the clergyman pointed the attention of the audience to the issues raised in the book, lamenting the current prevalence of false teachers and church leaders who have become agents of the devil to propagate evil vices such as homosexuality etc. As such, he called on his audience to rise to rescuing the church from the hands of these agents who are against the principles of Christianity.
The book was presented by Pastor Prof. Femi Adedeji, while Pastor G. S. Dada unveiled it on behalf of the President of the church, Pastor S.O. Oladele.
The retired provost was also presented an award of excellence for his meritorious service to the college by the Governing Council.
In his reaction, Prof. Oshun appreciated God and the Church Authority for the opportunity to serve, ending his appreciation with songs of praise.
Dignitaries in attendance included, the Chairman CACTS Governing Council and Regional Superintendent, CAC Babalola region, Pastor G. S. Dada; Vice Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, O. A. Fakolujo represented by Prof. Egbetimilehin; CAC Director of Administration, Pastor Tope Dada; Provost of the college, Pastor Ayo Olaniyi; Bishop Theologian of Anglican Communion, Bishop Dapo Asaju; Superintendent.
Others are former Provost of the Seminary, Pastor S. O. Afolabi; former Dean of Faculty of Humanities, Redeemer's University, Prof. Afolorunsho Dairo; CAC Agbara DCC, Pastor Joseph Omolola; Coordinators of CACTS Satellite campuses, family of the celebrator, among others.
Photo speaks !
