Death is an inevitable part of life; every living souls created by God must eventually face its embrace. The Bible teaches us about the significance of God’s power in determining when each soul will depart from this earthly realm. In Christianity, this concept is closely tied to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We believe that Jesus gave up his life to atone for the sins of mankind, and those who believe in him will be forgiven and granted eternal life in heaven.
On the 22nd of January 2023, we received the news of the passing of Most Superior Evangelist Abraham Ajose, the fifth-ranking member of our Church hierarchy. Prior to his demise, he had received brief treatment at Kings County Hospital in New York, USA, before returning to Nigeria in November 2022. His final moments were spent at Marcelle Ruth Hospital, located in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.
In honor of the departed soul, the Church authority constituted a Committee to oversee and plan the funeral arrangements. Numerous ideas were introduced and the burial ceremony captured the attention of Celestian members, who joined together to pay their respects to the late Most Superior Evangelist Ajose. The city of Badagry warmly welcomed thousands of Celestian members, who gathered to honor one of their own, a devoted servant of the Church for many years.
Adhering to the Church’s fundamental principles, a comprehensive doctrinal practice for burials was observed during the ceremony. The senior clergymen actively participated in the rituals, following the teachings passed down by our revered Saint Papa SBJ Oshoffa. Some elders stood in solemn reflection as they gazed upon the lifeless body of the departed soul. The picture above captures the essence of individualism, reminding us of the fragility and transience of life.
A group of photography enthusiasts would understand the reaction of the few Elders who viewed the body of M/S/E Ajose in his casket. The sight of M/S/E Ajao revealed the aftermath to anyone willing to comprehend; M/S/E Ajao conveyed the message, “Ajose: stand up.”
The expression on M/S/E Olarinde’s face undeniably conveyed the sentiment that “truly, life is fleeting.”
M/S/E Akindoyin turned away, unwilling to etch the memory of the sight into his heart.
V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa became skeptical, his mind heavy with doubt, questioning, “Is this really Baba Ajose?”
It is evident that Most Superior Evangelist Ajose has departed from the stage of events, returning to the One who sent him. The question remains, “What will be the aftermath of everything that has transpired?”
During the burial ceremony, all of the Pastor’s representatives were in attendance. The central choir, under the precise conducting instructions of A/V/S/E (Dr) Olaosebikan, filled the air with their melodious voices. Meanwhile, the Prophet/Prophetess, under the supervision of V/S/E Jerry, organized a well-coordinated program to honor the late evangelist.
However, it is a fact that in a matter of months, the name of Most Superior Evangelist Ajose will no longer grace the harvest invitation cards or programs. The Pastor will appoint a successor to fill his esteemed position, and we will once again find ourselves singing hymn (551), “Ki la o wi, ki la o so, ijo mimo ki la o so, gbati baba ba pe wa o, pe omo siwo ko ma bo, wa siro ise owo re…”
In conclusion, as we bid farewell to Most Superior Evangelist Ajose, we are left to wonder what the future holds for us. Yet, we can find solace in the knowledge that the Pastor will guide us through this transition, and we will continue to honor the late evangelist’s memory through our unwavering devotion.
