…Celebrates with thanksgiving
By Damiete Braide
On Sunday, February 2, 2025, the atmosphere at Messiah Apostolic Gospel Church, 52 Sumuratu Street, off Oyedeji, Ajegunle, Apapa, Lagos, was filled with joy and celebration as friends, guests and church members gathered for the grand finale of the annual convention and thanksgiving service.
The event ended with a concert of hymns and praise songs, uplifting the congregation in a spirit of worship and gratitude. At the heart of the celebration was Prophet Joshua Ibirongbe, the church leader, who marked 35 years of prophetic ministry.
The church choir, in their element, delivered soul-stirring renditions that ushered in large crowd of worshippers. Dressed in colourful attire, attendees had come from various locations to be part of this special occasion.
The convention, a yearly tradition, brought together all the church branches for a period of fasting and prayer, seeking divine direction for the new year. Prophet Ibirongbe highlighted the significance of these gatherings, emphasizing their role in strengthening faith and unity among believers.
Reflecting on his journey into ministry, Prophet Ibirongbe shared a deeply personal testimony. He revealed that his prophetic calling was divinely ordained even before his birth:
“It was God’s promise to my parents that this child would be a prophet. They were instructed not to cut my hair for some years, and they remained faithful to that promise. That is why I am a prophet today. I have ministered for 35 years.”
His journey, however, has not been without challenges. The cleric recalled several life-threatening health battles that tested his faith: “I suffered from asthma for nine years, but God healed me completely.
“I also endured a spinal cord injury for two years and eight months, yet by God’s mercy, I was restored. There was even a time when I couldn’t walk for years, but God’s power healed me, and now I stand strong and healthy.”
Addressing young pastors aspiring to enter full-time ministry, Prophet Ibirongbe urged them to remain steadfast in faith and avoid the temptation of seeking quick wealth: “Trust in God and do not rely on human strength or material gains. If you depend on people instead of God, you will fail.
“But if you put your full trust in Him, He will establish you in due time. I encourage people to remain steadfast, no matter their struggles. God is always faithful.” He extended his prayers to those in positions of authority, asking for divine wisdom to lead the nation in the right direction.
Beyond his pastoral duties, Prophet Ibirongbe remains committed to evangelism, traveling for crusades to spread the gospel and call people to a life of faith: “Without God, we can do nothing.”