All over the Ministry, the Men’s fellowship held their men’s week. The Men’s Week kicked off to a vibrant start which rightly reflects their slogan, “Action”. The week flagged the theme, “Men as Disciples Indeed (A reflection on the Burden of our generation)” (Nehemiah 1:4).

Our correspondent was live at GEWC Base Church to cover the event. Thursday, 12th October 2017 began with a talk titled, “The Burden of building on the foundation laid by our founding father” (Ephesians 2:20). Pastor Joe Cookey made the men understand the vital role they had to play in not just upholding the legacy of our founding father, Apostle G.D. Numbere, but in ensuring the vision lives on and is heralded by every man. The vision was reemphasized because it was not just for the good of the ministry, but it edifies the soul of the individual. Men were called upon to speak about the founding father and the testimonies were breath-taking.

Two powerful talks ushered in Friday’s session – “The burden of maintaining the Evangelical Spirit – our trademark” and “The burden of sacrifice and service”. With texts from 1 Corinthians 9:16 and John 2:17 respectively. The speakers, Pastor Chris Opara and Pastor Victor Abbey, delved deeply into the core of the vision of the ministry – evangelism and service. The first talk enlightened the men on their responsibilities as Christians and as members of the great ministry. Reaching out to the world is a service on its own and to effectively serve, sacrifices must be made.

Saturday, 14th October 2017, was well garnished with medical sessions split into the morning and afternoon session. The morning session went under way with practical checks were their blood pressures, weights, sugar levels, etc. were measured and proper advice, rendered. It was all smiles in the afternoon/evening session when they all converged again at the Base and received a lecture by Dr. (Mrs) Cookey who spoke on Monkey pox. This session was quite interactive and educative. She spoke on the origin of the virus, the transmission modes, the prevention techniques, the symptoms, the control measure and the severity. This was wrapped up with a rehearsal by the newly formed Men’s choir which was jovial all through.

To wrap up this wonderful program, a thanksgiving service was held on Sunday. The action and hospitality of the Men’s fellowship was portrayed in their presence. Appearing in the Ministry’s uniform, the men made quite an impact in the church and the Men’s Choir gave a wonderful rendition to a rousing ovation by the entire Church. The Senior Pastor, Pastor Steve Oparaodu, taught on “The burden of our generation”. The message made everyone focus on their spiritual tasks, looking beyond earthly gains and sourcing for souls to bring to the Kingdom of Heaven.

The week was a huge success and in one of men’s words, Pastor Johnwill Otobo, “There is a revival among the men”. The revival, indeed, is here to stay.

Pastor Isaac Olori paid a courtesy visit to the management of Nigerian Tide, the official newspaper of Rivers State on the 12th of October 2017.  He expressed gladness at the warm reception and mentioned that the Nigerian Tide and Greater Evangelism have much in common. In the early 70’s our founding father, Apostle G. D. Numbere was a regular writer of the Religious column of Tide. He admonished the management to bring back this religious column again and offered to contribute by providing articles if requested.  

Any attempt to rid our society of evil will not be successful if the Church is not involved because it is only God that can transform. In light of this, Pastor Isaac Olori extended his hand of partnership to see how through the medium of Tide, soul transforming and uplifting articles can be brought to the society.

In his response, the General Manager, Mr. Celestine Ogolo said he has known Pastor Isaac Olori from secondary school days and he knows Pastor Olori has been consistent in following God. He said, the Management of Tide considers it a privilege for Pastor Isaac Olori to visit them despite his very busy schedule. Speaking further, Mr. Ogolo reminded all that Tide is a legacy project of Rivers State that has stood the test of time and her job is to educate and enlighten people through the paper.

He expressed delight to partner with GEWC and the opportunity to write articles is still available because the Society needs to be changed and Christianity is indeed one of the things that can change people. He welcomed the director once again and iterated their willingness to partner with the Ministry in spreading the truth to the society.

Truly in His time God has made all things beautiful and at the appointed time our expectations manifested and His children rejoiced. Greater Evangelism World Crusade, Oyo State Mission had made frantic efforts to plant churches within Ibadan, but it didn't work out. While still in the bid of realizing that, in the month of May, the State Minister, Evangelist Olusegun A.A. Demehin, got a link to a Christian Minister in Osogbo and they discussed on a property available for rent. May 27, 2017, the State Minister with two of his officers travelled to Osogbo to assess the suitability of the property for church use. After a deliberation with the owners and the agent an agreement was reached. The transaction was related to the International Director, Pastor I.V. Olori, who indicated interest and approved a grant for the take off. The project proposal was sealed and preparations to commence the work began.

The official inauguration of the church was slated for the last weekend of September and preparation towards that began. The Oyo State Mission, engaged in both physical and spiritual preparations.

A one-week Mobilization plan was agreed on. On Monday October 25, 2017, the Mission Coordinator, Bro Edebamo Taribi and the appointed Chief Camp Commandant, Brother Bamekpari Mac-Inegite with the State Minister set at work. The rest of the Mission Team arrived Thursday and the mobilization was taken to a higher level. We had two sessions of publicity and evangelism.  The youths put their hearts to it and our presence was felt there in the town. The camp was alive with morning devotions, mid-day Intercessions, spiritual warfare and night devotions.

We had a Two-Day Crusade on Friday and Saturday. The attendance was encouraging and rain which had been falling every evening and sometimes twice a day in Oke Odo, gave way for the activities without any interference. Souls were won into the Kingdom in the two days.

On Sunday October 1, 2017, the first Sunday Service was held. In attendance was Rev Oriyomi Oladeji, a member of the National Scripture Union Council, who graced the occasion with his wife. The Royal Singers led the praise and worship session and ministered in songs before the message.

The State Minister ministered on the topic, “Enjoying the Fullness of life in Christ”. He emphasized that Jesus is life - the eternal life and abundant life. He pointed out that life in Christ is impossible without salvation, obedience, faith and fulfilling of the Great Commission. An Altar call was made and some youths responded and were led to the Lord. Thereafter, he led the congregation in prayers.

He then announced the establishment of the Greater Evangelism World Crusade Oko Odo, Oshogbo Church and he nicknamed her, "Chapel of Freedom".

The mission was very successful.

The Conference which had its main theme as “Youth as Disciples Indeed” was a five-day event that started from 9th to 13th August, 2017 and held at State Capitals. In Rivers State, Rivers West, held their conference at Greater Evangelism World Crusade Club Road Church, #1 Club Road, Port Harcourt the Rivers State capital.

GEP correspondent was present at the Rivers West Conference. The prestigious event attracted participants from all over Rivers West which comprised of over 29 local government areas of Rivers State.

The conference uniquely featured a variety of Teachings, Talks, Plenary Session, Seminars, Bible Studies, Power Night Prayers, Drama, Music Concert, Football Match and General Elections of new Officers of the Fellowship. Some of the key Guest ministers who featured were: the State Minister, Rivers West, Pastor Blessing Udoh; the Administrator General of Rivers West, Pastor Charles Ejima; the Deputy Administrator General, Pastor Philip Ojie; ; the Missions Coordinator of Rivers West, Teacher Enoch Isaac; the National Youth Minister, Evangelist Mike Ojie;  the Zonal Minister for Town Zone 2, Pastor Francis Asuk;  the Senior Pastor Club Road Church, Evangelist Chris Israel; and Pastor Chidi Ozodo amongst others.

The official opening ceremony kicked off on the second day of the Conference being Thursday 10th August, 2017. It wonderfully showcased a special Music Presentation by the RWYF Choir.

The Zonal Minister for Town Zone 2 of GEWC, Pastor Francis Asuk ministered during the opening ceremony. He told us of the early days of the youth fellowship, the founding international director of blessed memory Apostle G. D. Numbere shared a burden that was in his heart with the leaders of the youth fellowship at the time. He showed them the map of Africa, the countries of Africa, and the few places where Greater Evangelism was at the time, he said “I am showing you Africa because there are many countries and States that are meant to be conquered for Christ and I know that you can do it”. He encouraged them to run with the vision - To Know Jesus and To make Jesus Known. Pastor Francis Asuk said that the vision lives on and we are the ones to take the vision everywhere. He read from 1 Peter 5: 5-9, Deuteronomy 11:13-15; Proverbs 4:23. He spoke on the topic: “Disciples Indeed” saying that for youths to be disciples indeed, they must be diligent and clothed with humility and that it is what qualifies them to be used by God after believing in God.

The Rivers West State Minister, Pastor Blessing Udoh at the climax of the event on Sunday 11th June, 2017 gave a message on the topic: “The Characteristics of a Disciple and Benefits of Being a Disciple” (John 8:30-32). He said a disciple is a follower of Jesus who learns to be like his master Jesus in every aspect. Every leader wants to produce someone that is greater than them, Jesus said the works that I do, greater works will you do.

He gave various characteristics of a disciple indeed;

• Living a Christ centered life.
• Living a life of honesty.
• Living a life of integrity.
• Living a life of holiness.
• Love towards one another.
• Having a servant spirit.
• Having a forgiving heart.
• Spend quality time with God.
• Develop the right attitude towards the issues of life and be courageous.
• You must be loyal to your pastors, ministers and elders.
• Be a man of initiative.
• He gave the benefits of being a disciple
• Closer relationship with the master.
• Commitment to be like the master.
• Authority of the master (Matthew 10:25; 12:1-7).
• Seeing Jesus revealed in all His glory.

Pastor Blessing Udoh, in his conclusion said God has a purpose for every man on earth. He encouraged the youths to desire more of Jesus, ask Him to reveal Himself and desire to be like Jesus in their heart and soul.

Pastor Chidi Osodo spoke on leadership. There was a plenary session where the youths of Rivers West had the opportunity to ask the State Minister, Pastor Blessing Udoh and his entourage questions bothering them which were answered with clarity.  Teacher Tammy Ejimadu, Bro. Emmanuel Sydney and other guest artists ministered during the concert.

There was an election after the screening of nominees. Seventeen (17) candidates were elected to fill the seventeen vacant offices of the Rivers West Youth Fellowship.

The State Minister Rivers West, Pastor Blessing Udoh addressing the large crowd admonished the newly elected officers to be faithful and carry every youth along in the State by visiting all the zones in the State especially those in the rural areas experiencing crises. He also encouraged the youths to support the newly elected officers. He prayed and inaugurated the newly elected officers.

The September healing service basked in the atmosphere of the 45th Anniversary of the Ministry. The Jubilee voices led us in a session of praise and worship as we entered into God’s presence. While the hymn for the Sunday, reminded us of the power of God to bring light in the midst of darkness, healing in the midst of sickness and power to move the face of the waters. Still reliving the impact of the Ministry for these 45 years, we heard the salvation testimony of Elder Salome Bernard from Town Zone. Here’s a brief highlight of her testimony;

“I came into Port Harcourt to visit my sister who preached to me and I joined her to attend The Catholic Church. Even though I attended the Catholic Church, I had little or no idea what the Christian faith was all about. Later, I was fortunate to meet a Sister from this Ministry, Sis. Mary Godknows who preached to me also and followed me up in my Christian faith. She told me of the Ministry of Greater Evangelism World Crusade and invited me to church, when they brought the gospel to town, where I resided with my husband and children. I obliged the invite and joined the believers there. When my husband found out I was attending the church there, he permitted me to only go there and hear the word but not be a member of the church. This was difficult for me because I had already started enjoying worshipping with them. As time went on, he stopped me from attending at all and then the persecution began. Prior this time, he had gotten me a job with the Ministry of health, and to stop me from attending church, he told me to request for transfer, which I did. I was transferred to Eleme, where Late Elder Sarah Dawin (the Mother of the Ministry at the time) resided. When I got to Eleme, she welcomed my children and I into her home and took care of us, since I had little or no funds to cater for us, because my husband received my salary on my behalf and sent to me whatever he deemed fit. Elder Sarah Davin took me as her daughter and nurtured me in the way of the Lord till 1980, when I totally surrendered my life to the Lord.

I later went back to Port Harcourt at the request of my husband when he found out, I had become committed in the church again. He beat me several times and stopped me from attending church. Finally, he drove me out of our home and away from my children, because they too had started attending the church. He soon stopped them as well. I discovered later that he belonged to a cult. The first month after he chased me from our home, he lost his job. After much pleading, he allowed me back into the house. He later fell sick and I ceased the opportunity to bring him to church, which he accepted. He joined me to one of the healing services at Elechi Beach and God’s servant, Apostle G.D Numbere took his hands and prayed for him. To God’s glory, he gave his life to Christ and some months later, he went to be with the Lord.”

The Jubilee Voices sang a song titled “Breaking of Day”, assuring us that though the night may last for a while, the day and its good tidings will surely come to pass.

God’s word was brought to us by the International Director. The title of the sermon was “The Force of Prayer” (Luke 18:1-8). Introducing the topic, he stated that the force of prayer is a very powerful force and God’s mind is that every child of His should pray always and not faint. Faint here means to give up or to lose heart or to turn coward. He stated that when we do not pray, circumstances will intimidate us, fear will overshadow us and we cannot be victorious.

Explaining some words from the text, he mentioned that “men” refers to humanity and so the business of prayer is everyone’s responsibility. He also pointed out that “man” is a masculine word meaning that prayer is not a child’s business but a manly one. Prayer is a warfare and to win the battle raging around us, we must rise in our spirit. He used three examples from scripture to drive home the Force of Prayer. These three examples are highlighted below;

1.      The Widow and the unjust Judge (Luke 18:1-8)

The International Director explained that the widow had two (2) adversaries. One was the situation which was tougher than she could handle warranting the need for a judge. The Judge then became the second adversary to her. Jesus used this to teach us perseverance in prayer. We must be determined in our spirit to press on to get a result. Instead of her situation to weigh her down, she used the force of perseverance to weigh down her problem/adversaries and she got the judgement in her favour. Other lessons learnt from this example;

• If you key into the force of prayer, the force of prayer will weigh your problems down.
• When you pray, the situation will be in your favour.
• Don’t allow your situation to stop you from praying.
• We are duty bound to pray – “men ought always to pray”.

 2.      Peter’s Imprisonment (Acts 12:1-11)

Most times when the enemy attacks an individual in the church, his target is the church. Peter was put in a security tight prison but when the disciples realised that they had a stronger power- the force of prayer which can pull down strongholds, they put it into use. The force of prayer can pull down both physical and spiritual strongholds. In Peter’s situation, the power of the prison was working as well as the power of the soldiers but the power of the prayer of the disciples superseded all others. Lessons from this example are; 

• God answers prayers.
• Heaven sent an angel and the chains and gates were released.
• When the power of God comes upon you, no power can stand against you.
• Help will come your way as you look up to heaven.
• There are things in your life waiting for you to travail and when you travail, you will bring forth - Isaiah 66:8

3.      The man who came at midnight to ask bread of his friend (Luke 11:5-13)

For this man, even though the doors were shut and the gates locked, he persevered in asking his neighbour for bread for the friend who had come from a very far distance. The man cared for his friend, he did not go to ask for bread for himself. The other man also cared for his children and did not want them disturbed by that time of the night, as a result decided to tell his neighbour off but the man who came to ask for bread knew the power of importunity in prayer and as a result, he got more than he requested for. Solving a friend’s problem provided enough for him. Lessons from this example include;

• The force of prayer can be effective when we are not selfish (Job 42:10).
• Do you have a friend that can carry your burden?
• The force of prayer is enforced when we have a lively relationship with God.
• We must learn to pray for members of our church.
• Prayer is not only for food, sicknesses etc. we should persevere in prayer for the outpouring of the Holy Ghost, because when we have the Holy Ghost, we become a vessel to provide spiritual bread/food for others.

Finally, to be qualified to receive God’s attention, the following criteria must be met:

1. You must be alive. Being alive here means being spiritually alive. When we are spiritually alive, God will pay attention to us. To be spiritually alive we must stay away from sin, as sin kills our spiritual life (Proverbs 15:8; Luke 11).
2. You must have a lively relationship with God. You cannot go boldly into God’s presence if you do not have such relationship (Luke 18:7).
3. Be a part of God’s chosen ones. The guarantee to answered prayer is to be part of God’s chosen ones.
4. Use the weapons of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). On its own our weapons are not powerful. When we are connected to God, our prayers are powerful.