Olubunmi Yetunde Aderibigbe’s journey of faith and resilience is a testament to the transformative power of spiritual calling. Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, her early life was steeped in the rich traditions of Christianity. Despite the hardships and losses she faced, including the death of her father, Olubunmi found solace and strength in her faith.
This deep-rooted spirituality would later guide her in founding the Divine Star Prayer Ministry International, a beacon of hope and divine intervention for many.
Her move to the United States marked a significant turning point in her ministry. Establishing a new religious organization in a foreign land presented unique challenges. However, Olubunmi’s unwavering dedication to her calling and her community allowed her to navigate these obstacles with grace and determination. Today, her ministry stands as a testament to her faith and perseverance, offering spiritual guidance and support to a diverse congregation.
In this interview, Olubunmi talks about her early years, inspiration, challenges faced, and remarkable impact of her ministry.
Through her story, we gain insight into the journey of a spiritual leader who has touched countless lives with her unwavering faith and commitment to service.
Olubunmi Yetunde Aderibigbe’s earliest memories are woven with the sounds and sights of Lagos, where she was born into a devout Christian family. “I grew up in Lagos and was born into a Christian family, attending the C&S Church,” she recalls. The death of her father in 1984 was a pivotal moment that led her to join the Celestial Church, deepening her journey of faith. From a young age, Olubunmi felt the stirrings of a divine calling, receiving messages that would eventually shape her life’s mission.
Despite her roots in Ondo State, Olubunmi considers herself more of a Lagosian. “Virtually all my experiences are tied to my upbringing in Lagos,” she explains. The vibrant and bustling city played a crucial role in shaping her approach to life and ministry. The lessons learned and the values instilled in her during these formative years became the bedrock upon which she would build her future endeavors.
In 2012, Olubunmi took a monumental step in her spiritual journey by founding the Divine Star Prayer Ministry International. “I received a call from God,” she says. “It took me a long time to heed it, but when I began seeing the signs, I knew I had to do the work of my Father.” This divine calling became the driving force behind her ministry, inspiring her to create a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual guidance and support.
Starting a ministry in Maryland, USA, brought its own set of challenges. “I faced challenges in figuring out how to manage the ministry alongside my work,” Olubunmi admits. Leading a ministry in a foreign land required navigating cultural differences and logistical hurdles. However, her faith and resilience saw her through these early struggles. “God has always made a way, and there have been many testimonies of His faithfulness,” she says with gratitude.
The evolution of Divine Star Prayer Ministry International is a testament to Olubunmi’s dedication and God’s guidance. “It has been God all the way,” she acknowledges. One of her proudest achievements is witnessing miracles and answered prayers. “My proudest achievements include witnessing miracles, such as those seeking the fruits of the womb being blessed with children, people finding jobs, and healings,” she shares. These testimonies are a source of immense joy and confirmation that her ministry is fulfilling its divine purpose.
Balancing her roles as a spiritual leader and a philanthropist requires a delicate touch. “It has been God all the way. He leads me, and I follow,” Olubunmi reflects. Her approach to philanthropy is deeply intertwined with her spirituality. “Giving is a significant part of my lifestyle, which aligns with biblical teachings,” she explains. Whether providing monetary support or offering counsel and attention to those in need, Olubunmi’s philanthropic efforts are driven by her commitment to serve others as an expression of her faith.
The impact of Olubunmi’s ministry is perhaps best illustrated by the personal stories of those who have experienced transformation through her guidance. She recounts the story of a woman who had been seeking the fruit of the womb for years. “God answered her prayers and gave her a child,” Olubunmi shares. Such miracles are a testament to the power of faith and the divine presence in her ministry. Additionally, she has witnessed individuals who were initially distant from spirituality finding their way back to faith, becoming vibrant prayer warriors within their communities.
Her Nigerian heritage plays a subtle yet significant role in her work. “The spiritual controls the physical, guided by the leading of the spirit,” Olubunmi says. While she may not always consciously reflect on her heritage, the values and traditions of her upbringing inform her approach to ministry. “Giving is part of my lifestyle,” she emphasizes. In her view, true giving extends beyond monetary contributions; it involves offering time, attention, and support to those in need.
Maintaining personal spiritual growth while leading others is a constant challenge, but Olubunmi finds strength in her faith. “To be candid, it’s not easy, but with the help of God, I’ve been able to maintain my spiritual growth,” she admits. Her relationship with God provides the guidance and sustenance needed to navigate the demands of her ministry. “God has been my guide, leading me step by step,” she affirms.
For those looking to start their own ministry or charitable organization, Olubunmi offers sage advice. “My advice is to follow God’s instructions, remain faithful to His guidance, and stay undistracted regardless of the circumstances,” she counsels. Her own journey has taught her the importance of steadfastness and trust in divine direction. She acknowledges that the path may not always be easy, but faith and perseverance will see one through.
Reflecting on times when her faith was tested, Olubunmi recalls the early days of her ministry. “My faith was tested when I doubted myself about what God was telling me,” she confides. The initial struggles and doubts were part of a larger divine plan to strengthen her resolve. “This challenging period strengthened me and gave me the insight needed for the work God has called me to do,” she explains.
Staying connected with her community, both in the USA and Nigeria, is crucial for Olubunmi. “My ministry is international, and I have members in Nigeria as well,” she notes. Through regular communication and outreach, she ensures that her ministry remains a source of support and inspiration for all its members.
Olubunmi Yetunde Aderibigbe’s story is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and dedication to divine calling. From her early days in Lagos to the establishment of Divine Star Prayer Ministry International in Maryland, her journey reflects the transformative power of spirituality. Her ministry continues to touch lives, offering hope, guidance, and miracles to those in need. Through her example, Olubunmi inspires others to follow their divine calling and remain steadfast in their faith, no matter the challenges they face.