Methodist Church Secretary Urges Wesley Church Araromi to Preserve Legacy at 40th Anniversary

The Secretary of the Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Rt. Revd. Babatunde Taiwo, has charged the leadership and members of Wesley Church Araromi, Lagos, to remain steadfast in their Christian calling and build on the sacrifices of the church’s founding fathers as they prepare for another 40 years of impactful ministry. Taiwo gave the charge while delivering the commemorative sermon during the church’s 40th anniversary celebration, where he reflected on its journey from humble beginnings to becoming a thriving society within the Methodist Church Nigeria.

Describing the anniversary as “a day of thanksgiving, celebration and reflection,” the cleric, who served as the pioneer Minister-in-Charge of the church, urged members not to lose sight of their history. According to him, understanding the past is essential to appreciating the present and preparing for the future. “If we do not understand our past, we cannot appreciate our present, and we cannot adequately prepare for the future,” he said, adding that wisdom lies in reflecting on the past, understanding the present and making decisions that secure the future.

Taiwo paid tribute to the church’s founding fathers, mothers and pioneer leaders whose faith and sacrifices laid the foundation for its growth. He acknowledged living pioneers, including Sir T. K. Obidairo, Pa D. B. Oke, Sir Olakunle Ball and Sir J. K. Adeyemo, while also honouring the memory of several late members who served faithfully during the church’s formative years. He noted that although many now admire the church’s achievements, few understand the sacrifices made by its pioneers, who persevered through challenges with unwavering faith in God.

The Methodist leader described Wesley Church Araromi as “a church built on mission,” citing its contributions to evangelism, discipleship, leadership development and the training of ministers and church administrators. He urged members to preserve the spirit of unity that defined the early years of the congregation, stressing that the willingness to share one another’s burdens and joys was instrumental to the church’s progress and would remain critical to its continued growth.

Taiwo also challenged the younger generation to take responsibility for the future of the church by becoming committed leaders, evangelists and faithful disciples of Christ. He encouraged the congregation to reconnect with the children and grandchildren of the church’s founding members to preserve its heritage and ensure continuity. The anniversary celebration attracted ministers, church leaders, founding members, former and current worshippers, and other well-wishers, who gathered to celebrate four decades of God’s faithfulness and recommit the church to a future of mission, service and spiritual growth.