Right before us stands the Celestial Church of Christ a beacon of faith. Founded in 1947 by Samuel Oshoffa in Porto Novo Benin it has grown into a global church. The Celestial Church of Christ blends Christian theology and African spirituality.
Samuel Oshoffa a former carpenter had a divine revelation in 1947. He felt called to pray heal the sick and raise the dead. This led to the founding of the Celestial Church of Christ. Oshoffa served as the church’s leader until his death in 1985.
The church’s name came from a divine vision. Jesus revealed that members adore him like angels in heaven. This is inspired by Deuteronomy 26:15. The Celestial Church of Christ believes in the Holy Spirit’s power. Its teachings are based on the Bible. Traditional African beliefs are excluded.
Celestians as members are called follow twelve major recommendations. These include prohibitions common to other monotheistic religions. Tobacco alcohol and pork are forbidden. Members wear white garments during worship. Shoes are not allowed inside the main church. Men and women sit separately.
Menstruating women cannot enter the church for seven days. After childbirth women undergo sanctification. Members avoid idolatry fetish ceremonies and black magic. Only anointed men can access the altar. Services often use candles and perfumes. The church uses English and Yoruba Bibles.
Every December the Celestial Church of Christ hosts the Imeko Convocation. It is an international event in Imeko Nigeria. Members see it as a pilgrimage to a New Jerusalem.
Temples always face east. Altars have seven candle holders for the seven spirits of Jehovah. Services during the week use altars with three candles.
The Celestial Church of Christ aims to evangelize the world. It proclaims the Good News of Jesus Christ. The church seeks to deliver the bound heal the brokenhearted and restore hope. It reinforces faith in God. The church prepares believers for Jesus’ coming. It works for Christian unity and promotes Christian values.
The pastor leads the Celestial Church of Christ. Shepherds supervise parishes. The church has a Board of Trustees and other administrative bodies. Membership is open to all desiring salvation through Jesus. New members renounce secret cults idolatry and Satan. They declare their commitment to the church.
The Celestial Church of Christ welcomes you. It is a family of faith where members belong in God’s household. May you find solace guidance and spiritual renewal here.