Christ Apostolic Church, North AmericaDecember 24, 2018,
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE TO C.A.C. NORTH AMERICA CHURCHES THE MEANING AND SIGNIFICANCE OF CHRISTMAS
Giving thanks to God almighty for all His uncountable and unspeakable blessings and favor He bestow on us all this year. May his gracious name be praise for ever in Jesus name.
Also, looking and recalling the accomplishments of CACNA this year and looking forward with anticipation to greater achievements next year, I like to express our profound thanks and appreciation for your numerous contributions to the work of God in Christ Apostolic Church North America (Latunde Region). Your commitment, contributions and support through prayers and participation in our events and programs stand as a testimony of your love for our Heavenly Father. I am convinced that your sacrifice has been received by Heaven and all our collective service. We also thank the Lord for using you to be a channel of imparting blessings to others.
Please know that we will always be grateful for all you do and pray that the blessings of the Lord will remain on you, your family, ministry and all other endeavors. May the Lord who rewards faithfully, note and visit you in manifold ways. May the peace and blessing of this Christmas season be yours fully, please accept our deep appreciation on behalf of the authority and the leaders of CACNA for your wonderful role now and always.
Christmas is, or should be, a very joyful and happy time, not simply for children and young people, but for people of all ages. It marks literally a turning point in the history of the World and is one of the two most important Christian celebrations in the year.
Sadly, increasingly today, many people, possibly mostly women, are saying that they do not enjoy Christmas and are very glad when the Christmas season is over. They feel harassed and under pressure, cooking, catering, buying presents! – and sometimes being involved in family arguments! Christmas has become very commercialized. People are spending more and more. They are buying presents which they cannot possibly afford, plunging themselves and their families into large debts which hang around their necks throughout the year. With its commercialization, Christmas has become increasingly secular. Increasingly, there are attempts to remove from Christmas celebrations, any Christian reference. It is difficult now in many shops, to buy Christmas cards which have a Christian message. In our multi-cultural, multi-faith society, many Christians almost seem apologetic for their Christian faith and many seem happy to go along with secular society in leaving Christ out of their celebrations.
The purpose of Christmas is that we might enjoy God’s gift to us. As Rick Warren, the well-known American pastor and evangelist has said, God’s gift to us is unique.
So what is God’s gift? God’s priceless gift to us is Jesus Christ and his gift of abundant life – salvation. This is God’s gift to the world at Christmas.
So, let us think about the meaning and significance of Christmas. Christmas is the joyful celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ the babe born of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, over 2,000 years ago.
This was no ordinary birth. This was the coming to earth, out of love and for our sake, of Almighty God the Creator of the heavens and earth, the Creator of this vast universe in which we live – this universe with all its mysterious wonders and beauty, with its incredible forces and energies. God created each one of us. God our Creator came into this world that he had created and, in love for us, chose to be born as a child of a human mother. He took our flesh and blood. He lived as a man on this earth, like one of us.
Jesus was the Son of God. In taking to himself our flesh and blood, in becoming a man, he forever remained what he was, Son of God. He was both God and man, yet one person. Our minds cannot grasp nor understand that. As Christians we accept that as central to our faith.
That means that all the time that Jesus lay in his mother’s arms or in a cradle, he was holding in life and being, the whole universe. He was holding together the stars in their courses and holding every human being and every creature in life.
The birth of Jesus, the Incarnation as his birth is referred to by Christian scholars, is an astonishing event. Jesus’ birth marks the most astonishing event that this world has ever witnessed. It is tremendously important that we keep the startling immensity of that fact ever before us, when we celebrate Christmas and throughout the year.
Why did Jesus, the Son of God, come to earth? What was the reason for his coming to earth? He came out of love and out of deep concern for this created world and above all, out of concern and love for all mankind.
When God created this world, he saw that it was good. It was perfect. Yet this world is not perfect today. There are great natural disasters. There are earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunami flooding, and drought in many areas, bringing starvation and suffering and death. This world is a good thing badly spoiled. It was spoiled, according to the teaching of the Bible, because of human sin. When man first sinned, their sin opened as it were, a floodgate and sin passed over all creation and all creation was spoiled.
Likewise, men and women are not today, the people that God intended. They are not what they were when God created them. Their sin of rebellion against God spoiled their lives. Hence we have quarrelling between peoples and nations. We have wars and bloodshed. And we have all kinds of sicknesses and diseases, all because of sin. God came into this world out of concern for this world and out of love for men and women in their suffering.
What did Jesus plan to do by his Coming? He planned to overcome the power of sin. According to the teaching of the Bible, sin, which spoiled the world and spoiled the nature and lives of men and women, is a demonic power. Jesus came to overthrow it, to conquer it and set men and women free. In so doing he also came to cleanse and restore the natural world so that it becomes once again his perfect creation.
Sin has its lodgment in the human heart – in your heart and mine! Jesus when he came to conquer sin, came therefore to conquer it in its lodgment in the human soul. In coming to overthrow it, he came to heal us of all that hinders and spoils our lives. He came, as he tells us in John’s Gospel, to recreate us and make us whole, able to enjoy a full and abundant life in fellowship with himself and with one another.
How did he plan to do this? There is much that we do not understand. We can only listen to, and learn to accept, the teaching of the Bible. According to Scripture Jesus deliberately, in his own freedom, surrendered himself to the death of the cross. In becoming man, he drew alongside us. But he did more than that. He actually identified himself with each of us, as we are, and where we are in our sin. He took on himself all our sins, all our weaknesses, all our sicknesses, and died bearing his own divine condemnation upon them. In dying he took them all away and rose again triumphant over death, the grave, the powers of darkness and hell. He lives forever in order, in love, to give each of us a new start, a new beginning, a new life!
So what did Jesus accomplish? When he was dying on the cross, Jesus’ final words were, “It is finished!” These words were a shout of triumph. They were the shout of conqueror. Jesus had conquered sin and the powers of darkness and hell. He had done everything for our salvation. He offers salvation to each of us as a gift. We can do nothing to earn his salvation. We cannot try and spruce ourselves up and live a better life, in order to earn his salvation. The salvation, which Jesus offers to us, is a gift. It is God’s Christmas gift to us! All we can do is to receive it and thank him. Our thanking him is really our acceptance of his offered gift. On the other hand, we can ignore or reject his offered salvation to our own eternal hurt.
When we receive his gift and thank him for it, we receive in Christ a joyful new life – a life of peace and joy in fellowship with God, and the power to live a life of love and harmony with our fellow men and women. When we receive his gift of salvation, Jesus puts within us his Holy Spirit. God the Holy Spirit comes to live within us. His presence within us is a pledge that we belong to the family of God, that we are able to look up and call God Father and know that we are his dear children. The Presence of the Holy Spirit within us is the pledge, the guarantee that one day we will rejoice with Christ in the Kingdom of Heaven. It is God’s guarantee that we will join all the Redeemed of God, our own loved ones in Christ that have passed on to be with him, and that we will live to glorify God for ever.
In our celebrations of Christmas, we should not, and we cannot rightly, separate the Christmas event from all that follows on from it and from what Christ Jesus accomplished, through his Birth at Bethlehem, his life, death, resurrection and ascension. Everything that he did belongs together and contributes to our joy and happiness. He came and did it all for us, for our happiness and eternal welfare. It, all together, makes up God’s priceless gift to us.
Truly to enjoy the Christmas event and all that Christ has done for our eternal welfare, it is necessary for each and all of us to receive God’s gift. It is to open our lives afresh to him, to pray and in thankfulness to receive him as our loving Savior and Lord.
What would you think if someone spent everything in their entire possession in purchasing a gift, wrapped it up and gave it to you this Christmas? What would you think of the person who received the gift but never unwrapped it? Never discovered what it was? Never really accepted and enjoyed it? The giver would be desperately sad! God has given his most priceless gift to each of us. Make sure that each of us really thank him by receiving his gift, enjoying it and sharing it with family, friends and others.
This Christmas, therefore, endeavor to keep God’s gift of Christ central in all your celebrations, in all your family gatherings and festivities. He wants us to celebrate and have fun. Christ is not a killjoy! Happiness is his gift to us, which he wants all of us to have.
Finally, as you do receive God’s priceless gift of Christ and his salvation, take time to reflect on the enormity and pricelessness of the gift that you have received. The Almighty God, the Creator of this vast universe, your Creator and Redeemer has come by his Holy Spirit to live within you. All the fullness of God is within you! As Paul said to the church in Ephesus, you have received “every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). Therefore, thank him! Praise him with all your heart and soul!
May all of you, together with your loved ones and friends have a very joyful Christmas – and a very happy New Year!
Pastor T. A. O. Agbeja, Ph.D.
Regional Superintendent, CACNA, (Latunde Region).
Download PDF Version of 2018_Christmas_Message
DCC HQ & CENTRAL DISTRICT HQ
SOUTH WASHINGTON DISTRICT
VOC CHURCHES USA
DCC Superintendent: Pastor Kola Sonaike, Ph.D., DBA
DCC Secretary: Pastor Sola Taiye Obafemi
C.A.C. CENTRAL FLORIDA DCC:
Zonal Superintendent: Pastor Gabriel Idowu
Superintendent: Pastor Ademola Oyeniyi
“To lead our children into a growing relationship with Christ by creating an environment in which biblical teaching and activities are pursued to develop a godly spiritual and moral lifestyle that reflects Jesus Christ to everyone.”
“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:16)
CACNA-CCM Teachers are experienced, highly motivated and passionate servants of God whose objective is to fulfill the Vision Statement of the Children Convention Ministry in the present and next generations.
Programs – Our programs are Bible-based and children-centered. We encourage the use of real-life experiences from the children when teaching and studying the Bible. In addition, Bible lessons are disseminated in small group forums, skits/plays, recitals, songs, and hands –on activities such as; arts and crafts projects. These platforms enhance the easy understanding of the words of GOD for our children. Our lectures are informal and they foster great collaborative communication system between the teachers and the children. Also; our Questions and Answers sessions are wonderfully organized to identify and encourage the children’s knowledge of the words of God and to as well fortify their spiritual, social and moral lifestyles.
Physical Activity: 1 Timothy 4 verse 8A states, “For bodily exercise profits a little…” – Our physical activities incorporate swimming, soccer, jump rope, trampoline and other outdoor activities.
Pictures and Videos – Are available for the 2018 Children Convention Ministry page
Future Convention – We are looking forward to seeing you in 2019 Convention and it is certain that you will not be disappointed in fellowshipping with us!
NOTE TO PARENTS: In order to provide the maximum benefits, materials and fun for our children, please REGISTER their names and ages.
Coordinator:
Teachers: –
Superintendent, New England Zone, Chairman, Welfare Department
Pastor Matthew Babalola is a versatile teacher and preacher of the word of God. He has a double degree in Psychology and Business Administration (BSc.) and MSC. In Public affairs. He also has received his Doctor of Divinity (D.D) and has also earned a Doctor of Theology to the Glory of God.
He is currently the senior Pastor of Christ Apostolic Church Mt Zion, Boston, MA. and also the superintendent of Christ Apostolic Church New England Zone. USA.
Matthew is married to Lady Evangelist Gladys Adejumoke Babalola (Nee Adesanya). They are Blessed with four wonderful children and grandchildren.
DAVID OLUSEGUN ADENODI
Superintendent, Vineyard of Comfort DCC Chairman, CACNA Convention and Provost, CACNA Bible Institute.
Born on March 6, 1953 at Ode-Aye in Okitipupa local government areas of Ondo State, to late Pa Zaccheaus and madam Comfort Oluseye Adenodi. He had his primary education at St Mathias Catholic school Ode-Aye, Ondo State. He went to Ode- Aye modern school education, and attended community grammar school Igbotako in Ondo State. Teach at Olufunmilayo nursery and primary school, Ikeja. Senior official at Nigeria port Authority. He was called into the ministry in 1980. He attended Bible college at Christ International Divinity College, Erinmo an affiliate of Acadia University, Nova Scotia Canada and obtained Bachelor of Theology in 1990. Lecturer at Biblical and Theological Studies, Christ Deliverance Bible Institute, Ojodu, Lagos State, 1990-1993, lecturer at Biblical and Theological Studies, Christ Healing Bible College, Ketu Lagos State, 1991-1995. He was posted to the United States in 1995 by Prophet Samuel Kayode Abiara the General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide (Retired) to overseas all the Agbala- Itura Churches in the United States and Canada. Lecturer International Seminary, Florida (Washington DC extension class). He the convention chairman for Christ Apostolic Church North America since 1998. In 1997 he was promoted to District Superintendent for Christ Apostolic Church Agbala -Itura United States and Canada. He obtained Master Of Theology @ International Seminary, Florida, in 2002, he was promoted to Assistant General Superintendent in 2003, and later promoted to DCC Chairman in 2004. He also further his education and obtained Doctor Of Divinity at International Seminary Florida and Doctor Of Philosophy in 2013. He was promoted as Superintendent Of Agbala-Itura DCC USA. Dean Christ Apostolic Church Bible Institute 2012-2015 and became the provost of the Christ Apostolic Church Bible Institute 2015-till present .
Married to Queen Esther Oluseye (Nee Olusesi) and blessed with children.
Rev. David Adenodi (Ph.D)
Contact: Superintendent, Christ Apostolic Church (Vineyard Of Comfort) U S A Coordinating Council, Administrative Headquarters, 6408 Princess Garden Parkway, Lanham Maryland 20706
Tel: (301) 577-8680 Office
(240) 770-4390 Office
(301) 440-7033 Cell
(301) 459-9177 Fax
Email: dadenodi@gmail.com
dadenodi@aol.com
dadenodi@cacvoc.org
adenodi@icloud.com
The Church believes in the Holy Trinity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; the father being the Supreme God, maker of heaven and earth, and the creator of all creatures. Therefore Christian teaching of the Trinity states that God exists eternally as three persons who, while distinct, are equally and fully God.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? The Bible reveals there is one God. It also shows that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are God. If we don’t believe in God, we fall at the first hurdle. Other world religions offer other and many gods. We need to be clear that the Bible says there is one true God; all others are false and ‘man-made’ (idols). The Bible says that God exists as three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is difficult to understand, but at the beginning of Scripture God says ‘let us make man in our image (Genesis 1:26). A very simplistic way to understand this is to look at water. Water can exist in three states; liquid, solid form – ice, and as a vapour – steam. At each state the water is different in form and appearance, yet still water. God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Each distinct, yet each God.
Every part of human nature is deeply damaged by the Fall. We are born with a powerful bias toward sin. God commands us to confess our sin and turn from it to him as our Savior and Lord. We require the new spiritual birth which the Holy Spirit gives. Any who refuse God’s command and offer of life will suffer everlasting separation from him in hell.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? Every person, no matter how moral and good, will fall short of God’s standard because of a sinful nature (we have all done things we regret). Therefore being ‘good’ is not ‘good enough’. Being religious doesn’t make us acceptable to God (many have tried that). Acceptance comes through a ‘right relationship’ with Him. This is achieved by confessing our sins, seeking to live according to God’s ways. This is actually impossible humanly speaking, but God the Holy Spirit works in our lives so that we can become ‘new people’ and serve him. Many reject God or want Him on their ‘terms’. We can’t bargain or argue with God. He has made a way for us to be forgiven. If we reject this, we reject God. Sadly, the alternative is an eternal hell without God.
God’s eternal Son was born to Mary, a virgin, from whom he received his humanity. Fully human, he was nonetheless without sin, having been conceived by the Holy Spirit. Having lived with perfect holiness, he bore in his death the penalty of all others’ sin. After God the Father raised him from death he returned in triumph to heaven where he represents his people. He will come again to rule over the earth for a thousand years.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? Jesus became human like us. But if he had been born through the sexual union of a man and woman, he would have inherited the sin problem common to us all. Therefore he needed to become human in a miraculous way. This was accomplished by the creative power of the Holy Spirit causing new life within Mary, so that a child was born to a virgin. Being born without sin was not enough. Jesus, as he grew from childhood to a man, had to remain pure in his mind, attitude and his actions. Even if he had failed once, everything would have been lost! The whole point of a sinless birth and life was that he could be a perfect sacrifice when he died for us. When he was crucified, all the sin ever committed was ‘laid’ on him (accounted to him) and Jesus was then punished for that sin (which was ours). He then died taking the full consequences for our sin. God the Father was satisfied with Jesus’ sacrifice and therefore, according to the Scriptures, Jesus rose from the dead, triumphing over it, as the first one to rise. He rose with a new, eternal body which one day all Christians will possess. One day, he will return to reign as King of Kings.
Through his life and death Jesus provided fully for our salvation. When we trust in him as our Saviour we are completely forgiven and declared to be in right standing with God. We are now set apart for God. By the Holy Spirit’s power we can grow in the Christ-likeness God requires of us.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? We could never in our own efforts make ourselves right with God; it is humanly impossible. Many religions try to do this but all will fail. It required that God did something which we couldn’t. Jesus died for us, taking our sin upon himself. When we believe this, God declares that we are forgiven and declared right with Him. It is like a courtroom where someone pays the fine of the guilty person and the judge declares that since the crime has been paid for, the guilty person no longer has to face the consequences of the offence. In addition to being declared ‘not guilty’ by God, he doesn’t leave us as being ‘just forgiven’, but calls us to be his people and live for him. God is holy and pure and he requires that we also follow him in this way. Not a ‘holier than thou’ attitude, but someone whose life reflects something of Jesus in every aspect. The Holy Spirit helps us to do this.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is followed by clear evidences of the Spirit’s work such as speaking in tongues, seeing vision, dreaming, and prophesying. This is the reason why Pentecostal churches like CAC are called “Spiritual” churches.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? When we read the Bible there are many instances recorded where people had a definite experience of being filled by the Holy Spirit. This is how the church actually came into existence. This baptism is to give the individual a strength or power to live as a Christian.
The nine gifts of the Holy Spirit are found in 1 Cor 12: 8-11. Christians who possess these gifts have supernatural abilities. Their use helps to build up, encourage and strengthen the church, a people in living union with Christ.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? The Holy Spirit empowers people to serve. Also he gives special gifts to help the Church. These gifts are extraordinary in their outworking. The early church in the Bible needed such gifts and today, we also need them to help us. Spiritual gifts are not only in use today in “Spiritual Churches” but also becoming widely used in Orthodox Churches including Charismatic group within the Catholic Church.
Water baptism is the first step after being admitted to the Church. Jesus commanded that new believers be plunged in water to symbolize our sharing in the benefits of his saving work. His death and resurrection are the permanent basis of Christian life. Therefore he also ordained that he church should meet to remember him be eating bread and drinking wine as symbols of his body and blood. The lower age limit for baptism is 12 years and only an ordained pastor of the church can perform the baptism. To partake in the Lord’s super, a member must be 12 years old and above and not practice polygamy. If the husband is a polygamist, the first wife qualifies to partake.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? Jesus himself was baptized not to repent of sin, but to identify himself with our humanity. It was a significant moment in his life and it is the same for us. God recognizes that when we do an act it helps us to appreciate what the symbolic act means. By being baptized, it helps us understand something of the ‘death’ of our old life and the resurrection of our new one in serving Christ. Similarly, with communion, this meal helps us to focus regularly and consider what Jesus accomplished when he died for us. It should be a special time of reflection and worship when we eat this meal. Really no more need be said, other than Jesus told us to do it.
The Church believes that both the Old and New Testaments, comprising the Holy scriptures, were written by individuals through guidance by the Holy Spirit. The Scripture contains what God wants Christians to believe about God, salvation, life, etc.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? If we do not accept the Bible as God’s word, then we are reading and applying something which is man-inspired. As a result, at its best is flawed, at its worst is disastrous. The mystery of the Bible is that it was written over thousands of years by many different people, often writing in complete isolation of each other. But the Bible does not contradict itself, with prophecies made hundreds of years earlier being fulfilled. This gives the Bible its credibility and authenticity. The Bible is a complete manual for living. What is especially relevant is that the Bible records people’s failures as well as their successes. It shows that God deals with real people and meets them at their point of need, remaining a Lord of mercy at all time.
The government of the Church is based on the Apostolic order. Church leadership is provided by men with varying God-given ministries. They complement each other and together express Christ’s government of his church.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? The Church is an organisation (a group of people with a common purpose). Yet the church is unique because it comprises of God’s people, his church. It has a spiritual dimension which no other group of people have. As a result, a straight copy of management structures from secular society would not be suitable or competent to deal with the things of God. Therefore, God has ‘gifted’ people in the church to lead it. These people are not ‘superhuman’ or promoted into positions, but God’s gift in them is recognised, nurtured and tested. When the person is found suitable, they may be ‘set’ into their place of ministry (serving).
The Church believes that a member could fall from God’s grace if he or she backslides and abandons the faith (Heb 6:4-6). God is faithful and gracious to his people, earnestly desiring and providing for our salvation. It is possible, however, for a Christian to forfeit salvation by a willful failure to continue in faith and obedience.
Why is it necessary that we believe this? Many people think they can do what they like when they have become Christians, because they are ‘saved’. This is a mis-understanding of Scripture and an insult to God. God has given us a free will. He has not created us as robots. Therefore we have a responsibility to follow God’s ways and serve him. God has provided everything for us to follow him; his grace and the Holy Spirit, and he desires us to have a relationship with him. But a relationship is always two-way. If we fail and neglect God willfully, there is a danger that we break our relationship with him. This is the greatest tragedy.
The payment of these offerings is a cardinal belief of of the Church, and it is obligatory for both workers and members. The belief is based on Jacob’s vow at Bethel. Obedience to the belief carries with it many blessings. Proceeds from the offerings are used as stipends for church workers and to advance the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This belief was developed prior to 1930 when the founding fathers had association with Faith Tabernacle of Philadelphia. This faith together with the belief in salvation from sin, and reliance on God for all needs form the three pillars on which CAC faith rests. Members therefore rely on God for healing.
This belief is hinged on Abraham’s obedience to sacrifice Isaac to the Lord. Once man obeys God, He will provide all his needs since He is all sufficient.
(Affectionately known as “Baba Moroti”)
DCC SUPERINTENDENT WADCC/REGIONAL SUPERINTENDENT CACNA
A Statement of Introduction
Pastor Timothy Akinlolu Omolayo Oluwashakin Agbeja was born on March 27th 1954 in IIesha, Osun State Nigeria to the late Pastor Abraham Olayiwola Agbeja ( a District Superintendent in the Christ Apostolic Church) and Madam Lydia Folorunsho Agbeja.
Pastor (Dr.) Timothy Akinlolu Omolayo Agbeja has been the beIoved pastor and teacher of the Christ Apostolic Church and mission for forty four consecutive years. His dedicated service has been through the ranks of the clergy and in a wide range of socio-economic milieu from a little village in Idanre, Ondo State Nigeria where he started as a Catechist, to the United Kingdom as an associate/freelance pastor and to his present much coveted status of the Co-ordinator of C.A.C. North America and Canada.
Education Background:
Pastor Agbeja, who had both his elementary and secondary education at his home town Ilesha, is a graduate of Christ Apostolic Church Theological Seminary in Nigeria from 1974 to 1976 and The Assemblies of God Bible College, Mattersey Hall England in 1983, with Diploma in Theology with Merit, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Somerset University, Somerset England (l984/85), Master of Theology (1987) and a PhD in Theology (1992) both from International Seminary, Plymouth Florida (USA). He also hold a Master of Art in Christian Care and Counseling from Shelboune University, Northern Ireland (2000), as an enhancement of his ever functional spiritual gift He is a chartered member of The American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) and a Certified Temperament Counselor and a Professional Clinical member of: National Christian Counselors’ Association (NCCA)
Since his call to the Ministry in 1974, Pastor Agbeja has distinguish himself as an ardent orator, a sagacious counselor, a tenacious builder, a faithful ministry father, an articulate teacher and an anointed preacher a man of overwhelming spiritual gifts. To God be the Glory! Above all these credentials, Pastor Agbeja is a born again Christian Minister who likes to minister rather than to be ministered unto. To him leadership is service!
Dr. Agbeja’s spiritual gift instantaneously showcased him as a missionary whose visionary leadership has planted and pioneered many churches in many states since when he migrated to the USA, Most of these churches continue to bubble with the power and vigor of the Holy Spirit till to day.
As a teacher of The Word he has the double honors of serving as the Principal of the WOSEM Bible College and Theological Seminary, Akure and at the same period as head of The Christian Education Department of the World Soul-Winning Evangelistic Ministry (WOSEM) also in Akure, Nigeria for two and a half years. He served as the Provost of the Washington metropolis campus of the International Seminary and an associate Professor at Bethel University of Biblical Studies, Sliver Spring, MD., all of these to the glory of God.
Ministerial Services:
Dr. Agbeja has preached the gospel in many countries throughout the WorId as weIl as to the mainline denominations and quasi church bodies in Nigeria, U.K. and America. Detail highlights as full:
He led C.A.C House of Praise (HOP) in pastoral care and evangelism since the Lord sent him to Washington in 1995. Pastor Agbeja was typically the Moses that led the church family from its old 11th Street location into their new five hundred thousand dollar property at Edmonston Road in Hyattsville, Maryland, with less than 100 membership. Since then, Christ Apostolic Church (HOP) is known for its energized church growth ministries in praise and worship, witnessing and youth education. More than 100 people have been encouraged to enter the gospel ministry under his pastoral care, with some serving as pastors in several churches both CAC and Non-CAC alike. The tremendous growth of the Church demand for a need to start the planning to developed their almost two acres of land, a two phase project was then determined. To the glory of God he led the Church into the building and completion of the present state of art edifice, built from the ground up at the rough estimated amount of over 2.3million dollars, which is the first phase of the project and was dedicated in July 2009 by our Father, Pastor E. H. L. Olusheye; the then President of the mission, the arrangement is still going on the commencement of the second phase by the grace of God.
Community Services:
Dr Timothy Omolayo Agbeja is one of the foundation/pioneer member of the Pan-African Organization which was established in New York under the inspiration of a Nigerian – Chief Jumoke Ogunkeyede in 1989 that co-ordinate the affairs of African and African in Diaspora. And due to Dr. Agbeja’s beliefs for a strong unity among ministers of the gospel -especially within the Pentecostal and Evangelical circles; he worked strongly for the development of the ministers’ Council in New York City, under the tagged name United African Ministers’ Council where he served as the Vice Chairman from 1989 to 1990.
He repeated the same effort while he was in Los Angeles, California as he helped in organizing “The African Ministers’ Council” together with some well meaning spiritual leaders, he also served there in the capacity of the Vice President until December 1995. He was also the Spiritual Adviser to a joint political Organization of all Nigerian sub-political groups in Southern California called “The Organization of Nigerian Unity (ONU); He also served as the Member of the Los Angeles County School District Advisory Committee from 1993 to 1995. Soon as he arrives in Washington D.C. metropolitan area, he joined-the already existing “The Nigerian ministers’ Council” and he at a point serve as the Vice President of the Organization.
His Church worked in full support of “African For Jesus” Prayer movement and” IGO Ministries”, an organization which passionately work for the Spiritual, Socio-economical and educational advancement of the people in the Continent of Africa in providing for the need of the less privilege, supporting social structures, building orphanages and providing spiritual-stability in different Countries of African, he had made quite a number of journey with this organization on Mission purpose at his own expense to Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, and just recently to Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania, he also serve as the Vice Chairman to the of Director of this Organization – 2000 to present.
His Church under his leader is also a strong member of the “Collective Banking Group”, an organization which represent a large spectrum of different Christian Churches and Ministries from Washington D.C. to Baltimore that work together for the economic development of black Churches – From 1997 to 2010
He is a full fledged member of the African Strategic Leadership Prayer Network (ASLPN), a non-profit Christian charitable organization dedicated to prayer and intercession to get America Back to Christ – He served as the Chairman of the Mobilization Department of the organization – From 2009 to Present
He is also a proud member of the Christian Association Of Nigerian American ( CANAN), a non-profit Christian Charitable Organization whose Vision is: To be the leading voice of Nigerian-American Christians and their immigrant communities within and outside the USA, advancing their interests, views and their causes – He served as member of the Board of Trustee of the Organization – 2012 to Present
He is so proud of his heritage as a Yoruba man he is well known among fellow Nigerians for his passionate love for his home country and his believes in the African heritage and culture which earn him the alias “Home Boy” from those who knows him very well. He has donated generously to many Nigerian organizations home and abroad and served as the President of “Pastor Abraham Olayiwola Agbeja Memorial Scholarship Foundation”, an organization he established in memory of his late father, which presently sponsoring five students through their high school certificate and a choosing one student in one of our University in Nigeria. His leisure time is spent with his children watching movie, reading and browsing through his laptop.
Awards & Honors:
Dr. Timothy Agbeja has received many awards and honors for his civil services and scholastics duties, among which are: The American Christian Leadership Council’s inclusion in “Who Is Who in Christian Leadership”, 1989 edition; “Distinguished Representation Award” by the Los Angeles County School District Advisory Committee,. June 1995; His appearance at the prestigious Marquis “Who Is Who among the Christian Leadership” edited in the Library of Congress 1999 edition; Award-as “Honored Professional” in the “National Register’s Who Is Who in the Executives and Professionals”, edited in the Library of Congress 2000 edition; Town of Bladensburg Proclamation in Commemoration of his elevation to the rank of “Chairman” in the Christ Apostolic Church Organization which is the equivalent of Bishop by the City Mayor 2004. Another Proclamation in commemoration of his Birthday in 2012 by the City Mayor represented by Councilman Ficklin Walker. Also a Certificate of Congressional Commendation, in commemoration of his Forty Years in the Ministerial Service in October 18th, 2014.
Family:
Pastor Timothy Agbeja is married to Evangelist Agnes Adebomi, nee Adeniji both working as a team of two-in-one minister. They are blessed with five children with a divine selection of all their initials—,Bukky, Bumni, Bola, Bisi and Bode. He considers his family his greatest earthly blessing.
The Christ Apostolic Church is distinctly an indigenous African Church. By its structure, belief and practices, it is an independent Pentecostal Church. The history of the Church is traceable directly to our forefathers, namely Oba/Pastor Isaac Babalola Akinyele, Pastor David Ogunleye Odubanjo, Joseph Sadare, Miss Sophia Odunlami and Evangelist (late Apostle) Joseph Ayodele Babalola who was called to the ministry by the Lord on 11th, October 1928. Apostle Babalola’s call subsequently led to the great revival of 1930.
Before then, there was the 1918-28 Faith Tabernacle era characterized by the formation of praying groups’ such as the Precious or Diamond Society found in small pockets all over Nigeria. The brethren in control were Joseph Sadare (a.k.a. Esinsinade), D.O. Odubanjo, I.B. Akinyele (late Olubadan of Ibadan) and Miss Sophia Odunlami. The majority of the members of the first group of Diamond Society were worshipers at St. Savior’s Anglican Church, Ijebu-Ode, where they began meeting regularly for prayers and spiritual guidance in 1918. Mr. D. O. Odubanjo soon developed contact between members of the ‘Praying Band’ and Pastor A. Clark, the leader of Faith Tabernacle in Philadelphia, USA. through correspondence and receipt of tracts and magazines such as ‘The Sword of the Spirit’.
Soon, tension rose between the group and the Anglican Church over such practices as divine healings, opposition to infant baptism, reliance on dreams and visions, abstention from dancing, drumming, debt-owing, drinking of alcohol, gambling and mixing with non-Christians. Mr. Joseph Sadare was compelled to give up his post in the Synod and others were forced to resign their jobs and to withdraw their children from the Anglican School.But in less than a decade, branches of the group had been established in Lagos, Ibadan, Ilesa, Oyan, Ile-Ife, Minna, Jos and Zaria. Their members had also imbibed reliance on the power of prayer, divine healing and the All Sufficient of God.
Fortunately, the Great Revival of 1930 with Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola as its medium, emerged in July 1930 at Oke Ooye, Ilesa. Those who assisted him during the Revival included D. O. Odubanjo, Oba I. B. Akinyele, and J. A. Babatope as well as Babalola’s followers such as J. A. Medayese, A. O. Omotoso, John Oye, J. B. Orogun, and Philip Mabigbade among others. Prophet Daniel Orekoya, later on, came to the scene.
The Great Revival did not only embrace all the beliefs accepted by the Faith Tabernacle group but also went further by embracing the baptism of the Holy Spirit, the spiritual manifestation of seeing visions, prophesying, speaking in tongues and dreaming. Consequently upon this, people with diverse decreases were healed in thousands and, in turn, they spontaneously rejected their “juju” and other medicines. Massive revivals hitherto unknown in Nigeria ensued. Thousands of people surrendered theirs lives to Jesus.
Meanwhile, the Church leaders were subjected to avoidable intimidations, harassment, and humiliation at different levels of the society. So, on their behalf, Mr. D. O. Odubanjo sought co-operation with British Apostolic Brothers in Bradford, England. Thus on 23rd September 1931 three missionaries, viz. Pastor D. P. Williams, A. Turnbull and W. J. Williams arrived in Nigeria as guests of the Church. In November 1931, the visiting missionaries ordained the first seven Pastors of the Church who had earlier on been ordained by proxy by Pastor A. Clark in America. Three of the new Pastors namely, Pastor J. B. Sadare, D. O. Odubanjo and Oba I. B. Akinyele later came to play important roles in the growth of the Church. After the return of the white Missionary delegates to Bradford, Pastor George Perfect, and Prophet Idris Vaughan came to Nigeria on 22nd June, 1932 to strengthen the band of fellowship between the two religious bodies. For a time, the religious activities of the white brothers complemented the religious exploits of Joseph Ayo Babalola.
From the side of the Nigeria, the hope that the partnership would mitigate, if not totally eliminate, their untold sufferings and persecutions became an illusion. The partnership, however, staggered for a decade before it crumbled during 1939/40 crisis. As a result of the disagreement over the issue of “Divine Healing”, two groups had emerged. The pro-European group was led by Pastor S. G. Adegboyega while Apostle Joseph Babalola, Pastor D. O. Odubanjo and Pastor (Oba) I. B. Akinyele led the Nigerian Group.
Over the time, God revealed to Apostle Ayo Babalola to name the Revival Group “APOSTOLIC CHURCH”. About 1939, the Church changed its name to NIGERIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH. This name was again changed to UNITED APOSTOLIC CHURCH until 1942 when God specifically revealed that the name of the Church should be CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH. It was thereafter that the name was registered as No. 147 of May 4, 1943, under the Lands Perpetual Succession Ordinance.
During the decades 1940-1960, the CAC was subjected to a series of strain and stresses. Stiff opposition came from the detractors of the Church including some of the orthodox churches, most government officers, some Obas and high chiefs and even evil forces. There were also problems of internal administration, inadequate training, recruitment of unqualified Church personnel and weak finances. However, the following factors later tilted the pendulum in favor of the Church; political power had then passed to the Africans who were free to embrace the Gospel; the church had produced literate children; prominent men and women who had directly or indirectly benefitted from church then gave it their support; the oil boom of the 1960s provided money for better church personnel throughout Nigeria. The golden era of the Church ended in 1959 when Pastor D. O. Odubanjo and Apostle Ayodele Babalola died.
The history of the church witnessed remarkable developments such as the establishments of a Bible Training College, Ede (1952) (the Bible Training College moved to Erio Ekiti in 1954, to Efon Alaaye in 1958 and to Akure in 1969), Pastoral Training College at Ibadan (1946), School of Prophets and Evangelists at Ilesa (1949), defunct Teachers’ College at Efon Alaaye (1955), Faith Home at Ede (1959). Grammar Schools at Ibadan, Efon Alaaye and Iperu (all in 1960), Ilesa (1962), Akure (1964) and Odo-Owa (1970), Press and Publications department (1966-67), Sunday School Department (1977), Theological Seminary at Ile-Ife (1979) by merging the Bible Training College and Pastoral Training College, and the formation of Societies, Associations and Fellowship groups. All these organs soon helped the Church to firmly establish religious practices and liturgy peculiar to it.
The teaching of the Church had grown out of many sources, namely the Bible, the remarkable soul-searching sermons of the founding fathers; borrowing from Europeans and American literature especially tracts and magazines; the lessons produced by the various tensions within the Group over the prophylactic use of medicine and other issues of administration. Besides the belief of C.A.C. members in prophecy, visions, divine healing and holy living, the focal points of all tenets and practices of the Church is prayer. And when accompanied by fasting, it could accomplish the impossible. The C.A.C. has a strong belief in the efficacy of prayer and that no divine healing could be achieved without FAITH and TRUST in Jesus Christ. These two religious virtues are the bedrock of the Church’s spiritual power.
As a Pentecostal denomination, the Church, by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, is administered by the orders of Apostle, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and teachers. Ultimate power rest with the Authority of the Church; but it involves elders/deacons, women leaders (deaconess) and leaders of recognized organizations as found appropriate in the process of administration (Eph. 4:11-13).
In sum, for a little over six decades of its existence, the C.A.C. , has grown from groups of persecuted and inconsequential Christians to a church denomination that today claims some five million adherents residing in different parts of the world. The Church possesses its uniqueness and identifies in liturgy hinged on praying and singing of hymns, anthems, and choruses. It had an impelling message of worshiping in a truly African pattern for all Nigerians. The most distinctive feature of the Church attractive to people of different faiths, in the tenacious belief in, and practice of, divine and Christian healing. No wonder people flock to the C.A.C. seeking solutions to their social, religious, existential and psychological problems. This emphasizes the fact that Jesus Christ still heals and can still be relied upon to provide for all needs as He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
The Word of God: We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, fully inspired and without error in the original manuscripts, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and that supreme authority in all matter of faith and conduct.
The Trinity: We believe that there is one living and true God, eternally existing in three persons, that these are equal in every divine perfection, and that they execute distinct but harmonious offices in the work of creation, providence and redemption.
God the Father: We believe in God, the Father, an infinite personal holiness, wisdom power, and love. We believe that He concerns Himself mercifully in the affairs of men, that He hears and answers prayer, and that He saves from sin and death all who come to Him through Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ: We believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son, conceived by the Holy Spirit. We believe in His virgin birth, sinless life, miracles and teachings. We believe in His substitutionary atoning death, bodily resurrection, ascension into heaven, perpetual intercession for His people and personal, visible return to earth.
The Holy Spirit: We believe in the Holy Spirit who came forth from the Son to convict the world of sin righteousness, and judgment, and to regenerate, sanctify, and empower all who believe in Jesus Christ. We believe that the Holy Spirit in dwells every believer in Christ, and that He is an abiding helper, teacher and guide.
Regeneration: We believe that all men are sinners by nature and are, therefore, under condemnation. We believe that those who repent of their sins and trust in Jesus Christ are regenerated by the Holy Spirit.
The Church: We believe in the universal church, a living spiritual Christ is the head and all regenerated persons are members. We believe in the local church, consisting of a company of believers in Jesus Christ, baptized on a credible profession of faith and associated for worship, work and fellowship.We believe that God has laid upon the members of the local church the primary task of giving the gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost world.
Christian Conduct: We believe that a Christian should live for the glory of God and the well-being of his fellow men that his conduct should be blameless before the world that he should be a faithful steward of his possessions and that he should seek to realize for himself and others the full stature of maturity in Christ.
The Ordinances: We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ has committed two ordinances to the local church, baptism, and the Lord’s Supper. We believe that Christian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the triune God. We believe that the Lord’s Supper was instituted by Christ for the commemoration of His death. We believe that these two ordinances should be observed and administered until there turn of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Religious Liberty: We believe that every human being has direct relation with God. He is responsible to God alone in all matter of faith that each church is independent and must be free from interference by any ecclesiastical or political authority. Therefore, Church and State must be kept separate as having different functions, each fulfilling its duties free from dictation or patronage of the other.
Church Cooperation: We believe that local churches can best promote the cause of Jesus Christ by cooperating with one another in a denominational organization. Such as organization, whether a regional or district conference, exists and functions by the will of the Churches. Cooperation in a conference is voluntary and may be terminated at any time. Churches may likewise cooperate with inter-denominational fellowships on a voluntary, independent basis.
The Last Things: We believe in the personal and visible return of the Christ to earth and the establishment of His Kingdom. We believe in the resurrection of the body, the final judgment, the eternal felicity of the righteous, and the endless suffering of the wicked.
The Magazine is currently not in production. If the Lord is leading you to support the production of the Magazine, please contact the Church administration or the Publicity Department of CACNA.
The Magazine is currently scheduled to be sent bi-monthly. please subscribe to receive it. Thanks.
Adult Sunday School ManualsAdult Sunday School ManualsAdult Sunday School Manuals
CACMA was established in 1952 and the Association itself has grown far beyond the expectations of the founding fathers to now cater for the spiritual needs of diverse population of Christian converts of different colors and languages all over the world
CACMA’s mission is to address these challenges of diversification by turning the association into a Men’s Fellowship that vigorously pursue activities that are beneficial to the church and individual members while also allowing for individual spiritual growth as members of Christ’s Army.
Through activities designed by CACMA , for the men in accordance to the goals of our founding fathers have supported the Pastors “Raising the hands of Moses of CAC up”(Exodus 17:8-13) to win our spiritual battles.
We also act like the Biblical Church in Antioch (Acts 13:1-5) preaching the Words through Evangelism.
Covenant Partners -The Association in each city or local church each with its’ own leader meet monthly to study the words of God, fervently pray together and socialize. Through the church and many individual members have been assisted physically and financially in varying ways. Many have been been helped to not only grow in the Lord but also to excel in their different professions and also thrive as real Men in charge of their Homes providing for the needs of their families.
Various activities have been organized over the years such as Prayer Breakfast, Seminars on Men’s Health, Mentoring for our young children and prayer sessions specifically to address current needs of our men.
Apart from the current officers, the Association has a Standing Working Committee that is charged with the responsibility of planning and executing the activities of the Association.
Lady Evangelist (Barrister) Janet Fashakin is the leader of the group in USA and Canada. Our Mission:To do the will of Him that hath called us Faithfully, Diligently, Supporting with all seriousness. John 9: 4, 2: Timothy 2:3-5, Colossians 1:10-14
The Vision: 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Titus 2:3-5, Titus 3:1-4
Email: janetfashlaw@aol.com , cacnagoodwomenforum@gmail.com
Phone: 718-441-6056
Bank Account: Bank of America NY Account # 483045230041
The 2015 Wall Calendar –
This Calendar is a must have for both men and women as it uniquely tells the current leadership story of CACNA and CACWW in still pictures and showcases each zone.
A Special thanksgiving to God during this Thanksgiving season. Please give your $20.00 to give your thanks to God for what He has done and will do for you. PLEASE DONATE HERE NOW!
A Special thanksgiving to God during this Thanksgiving season. Please give your $20.00 to give your thanks to God for what He has done and will do for you
Christ Apostolic Church North America Strategic Business Partners (formerly known as CACNA Business Men & Women Group Fellowship), was an idea that was spiritually inspired by our father Pastor (Dr.) Solomon Oyeleke in 2011.
Christ Apostolic Church North America Strategic Business Partners (formerly known as CACNA Business Men & Women Group Fellowship), was an idea that was spiritually inspired by our father Pastor (Dr.) Solomon Oyeleke in 2011.
Registration will start from Wednesday, February 8th, and end Wednesday, March 15th, 2017.
Registration for non-Ministers will be $50.00 if paid by check or money Order and $55 if paid with Credit or Debit Card: This is for the Deacons, Deaconess, Sunday School/Children Teachers, Choirs, and Ushers.
Note: For this registration to be completed, your registration fee must be paid in full and on time.
Please make your check payable to C.A.C. North America. the please find the nearest Bank of America and deposit check in the account of C.A.C. North America.
For Deacon, Deaconess, Sunday School/Children Teachers, Choirs, and Ushers and all other Workers.