Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has recently been honored with a new appointment.
He has been named the Patron of the Ecumenical Synod of Bishops, Archbishops, and Senior Clergy Inc. (ESBAASC). This prestigious appointment highlights his significant role and contributions to the Christian community.
The announcement was made during the group’s international conference, which took place from August 22 to 25 at Emmanuel Park, RCCG Redemption Camp, as reported by Church Times. The conference focused on addressing challenges and strategies related to religious tolerance, under the theme “Religious Tolerance in Nigeria and Across the Nations of the World.”
ESBAASC, a coalition of Christian leaders, is dedicated to fostering unity and dialogue among various Christian denominations. The organization aims to promote religious cooperation and understanding, bridging gaps between different faith communities.
The event saw the nomination of Pastor Adeboye as Patron by Archbishop Prof. Kehinde Olubunmi, the International Prelate and Chief Host. The appointment was celebrated with a standing ovation from the attendees, reflecting the high regard in which Pastor Adeboye is held within the community.
In addition to Pastor Adeboye’s appointment, Archbishop Prof. Mary Ajisafe, Overseer of Peace of God Ministry in Lagos, was also appointed as Matron of ESBAASC. This recognition was similarly met with enthusiasm and applause from the audience.
Archbishop Olubunmi emphasized the group’s collaborative efforts with global organizations to enhance religious tolerance in Nigeria and extend this ethos throughout Africa. The commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and understanding among different religious groups was a key focus of the conference.
Pastor Adeboye, represented by RCCG National Overseer Emeritus, Pastor Joseph Obayemi, took a reflective approach during his speech. He recalled his youth and shared experiences of peaceful coexistence with individuals from various faiths, illustrating his long-standing commitment to harmonious living.
He discussed how his early interactions with Muslims and other religious groups exemplified a harmonious lifestyle, and he defined religious tolerance as the cultivation of mutual understanding and unity among diverse cultures. Pastor Adeboye also noted that much of the religious and sectarian violence in Nigeria is politically motivated, often exacerbated during periods of economic and social unrest.
In his address, Pastor Adeboye urged attendees to advocate for religious tolerance. He stressed that true believers should prioritize love and the preservation of life over violence and division, emphasizing the importance of fostering peace and unity in the face of challenges.