For the third time in just two years, members are being urged not to wear their regalia. This directive will be emphasized during the 2023 Annual Convention, taking place on the 24th and 25th of December at our World Headquarters in Imeko.
Naturally, a concerned member will question the reasoning behind God’s repeated request for us to abstain from adorning ourselves with regalia during worship. It is a valid query that deserves our attention and reflection.
Under the leadership of Rev. EMF Oshoffa, Celestial Church has an array of 51 different ranks within our fold. These ranks have not been a sense of unity and purpose but a significant source of income for our Church. However, it is intriguing to note that the divine spirit has consistently distanced itself from accepting the vibrant and diverse regalia we offer.
Despite the continuous warnings regarding the regalia garments, the anointment exercise scheduled for the 26th of December 2023 at Mercyland will proceed. It is essential to note that Celestial Church of Christ operates with a hierarchical structure, assigning different responsibilities to individuals who have met the Church’s standards. Sections 198 and 199 of the Church Constitution explain the significance of anointment and outline the duties and responsibilities of anointed members. Additionally, sections 185 to 188 provide further clarification on the hierarchical processes within the Church.
However, the persistent increase in warnings should prompt the Pastor to engage in a genuine reconciliation process, embracing the spiritual journey of Celestial Church of Christ in the heavenly realm. It is crucial to approach this matter with utmost sincerity and dedication.
We started receiving the warming on the 26th of July 2022, members received a memo which served as an alert to all Church members, informing them of a spiritual exercise that required the anointed members to refrain from wearing their regalia. Instead, the Sunday service was conducted by shepherds on a humble brother named Suatana, while each member would hold a candle.
While similar occurrence took place In 1984, a mere 261 days before the passing of our Founding Pastor, Rev. SBJ Oshoffa. During the last Christmas convocation attended by Papa, he chose to observe the service without donning his full regalia. Instead, he humbly adorned a white cape cassock, setting an example for all. Prior to the commencement of the service, Papa Oshoffa urged the general congregation to follow suit, removing their regalia. The result was a breathtaking sight, as the entire cathedral transformed into a sea of white garments.
It becomes evident that there is a profound message being conveyed to us. It is a call to embrace authority, unity and a deeper connection with the divine as we gather for the 2023 Annual Convention.
