Father’s Day: MMU Honours Egbebi, Okerinde

By Jide Afolabi, Osogbo

The Men’s Missionary Union of Shalom Baptist Church, Osogbo, Osun State on Sunday honoured Deacon Emmanuel Egbebi and Pa Djossaya Okerinde with Service Award as part of activities to mark the 2021 Father’s Day celebration.

In a special service held at the Church’s auditorium, the awardees were described as heroes of faith who have contributed immensely to mission and the growth of the Men’s Missionary Union in the Church and body of Christ at large.

Egbebi was the Chairman of the body between 2016 and 2019. He was also the immediate past Chairman of the Diaconate Committee of the Church. He had also served in various capacities in the Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria including serving as Conference Director. He rose through the ranks to become Counselor in the Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria.

Pa Djossaya Okerinde is a great missionary and Church planter. He successfully planted more than four Churches both in Nigeria and abroad including Republic of Togo.

While conferring them with the award, the Pastor of the Church, Rev Dr Solomon Oyebanji described the awardees as noble men and fathers who have never at any time shy away from kingdom business. He urged them to continue in the service of God and humanity praying that they would continue to be noble vessels.

In his speech, the Chairman of the Union, Deacon Sunday Folorunso appreciated “the awardees for their contributions to development of the Union and Church. They have impacted many lives positively. God will reward and award you in His kingdom in Jesus name”.

Speaking on the theme, “The Kneeling Father” (Genesis 25:19-21) and sermon topic, “Earnestly seeking for Spiritual Change”, the Church Pastor, Rev Dr Oyebanji said that the theme was very timely and relevant. He said, “As men, many are still struggling to provide for the family; to have a stable business; some are even starting a new business entirely. Many men are crying and fainting under the prevalent of insecurity, unemployment, lack of cash flow, psychological and emotional stress. Our theme this year is calling our attention to a solid and vibrant prayer life. God expects fathers to spend more quality time with Him in prayers. Let me remind you Sirs, that prayer is the key to a fulfilled life.

He added that God was calling fathers to a renewed prayer life; commitment to serve and leave a good legacy for incoming generations. He reminded the fathers of their duty in child bearing, child rearing, child nurturing, and child discipline among others.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Deacon Egbebi said that the award was a surprise. He added that they did not know what service they have rendered that made them deserve the award. He assured the congregation that they would continue to live their lives for Christ and continually contribute to the development of the Men’s Missionary Union and growth of the body of Christ generally.