Every religious organisation that seeks to fulfil divine purpose must first be anchored on sustainability. Beyond human imagination, the growth of any spiritual movement depends on men and women who willingly sacrifice their resources, time, energy, intellect, and unwavering commitment to ensure that the sacred vision remains alive from generation to generation. Religion does not stand on doctrines alone, it stands on people whose lives embody its spiritual values.
Celestial Church of Christ, from inception has advanced through such individuals. As the Church continues to extend the mandate of God to humanity: evangelising, healing, and restoring souls, He continues to raise vessels whose impact becomes a foundation for future generations. In every region of CCC, God identifies and equips certain people who become pillars of structure, worship, administration, and spiritual influence.
In the South-South region of Nigeria, this divine identification has manifested in the lives of Venerable Superior Evangelist Emmanuel Oviawe (General), Venerable Superior Evangelist Marvis Audu, and Evangelist Friday Oziegbe Balogban. These three men, all sons of the historic Benin Kingdom, stand today as embodiments of deep-rooted faith, cultural strength, and unbroken loyalty to the Celestial calling.
Their rise and relevance echo the symbolic story of the three wise men who travelled from the East to pay homage to the newborn Christ. Just as those ancient visitors brought gifts of significance, these modern-day “wise men” bring gifts of leadership, wisdom, maturity, and spiritual service to the Church.
V/S/E EMMANUEL OVIAWE (GENERAL)
A Pillar of Structure, Discipline, and Institutional Stability
VSE Emmanuel Oviawe Shepherd of CCC New Etete Parish, located 3 Power Line, opposite PHCN Transmission, New Etete Quarters, Off Sapele Road, Edo State is widely known and respected for his firm leadership style, administrative intelligence, and deep understanding of the heritage of Celestial Church of Christ. His service reflects discipline, clarity of purpose, and an unbroken dedication to order qualities that have set standards for parishes across the South-South.
VSE Emmanuel Oviawe
His contributions have brought stability and progress to the institutions and frameworks of CCC in Edo State and beyond. To many, he is “General” not by title alone, but by virtue of the spiritual authority, simplicity, and strategic capacity he continues to demonstrate.
V/S/E MARVIS AUDU
A Spiritual Voice, A Shepherd of People, A Man of Grace
V/S/E Marvis Audu Shepherd of CCC FirstBorn Cathedral located at 3, First Born Avenue, Land of Milk & Honey, Km 10, Ohoghobi Bus Stop, Sapele Road, Benin City, Edo State carries a magnetic spiritual presence that has shaped countless lives. Known for his humility, scriptural depth, and prophetic strength, he has become a vessel through whom God speaks peace, direction, and healing.
V/S/E Marvis Audu
Across the region, his ministry has inspired revival and reawakening. His influence extends beyond the pulpit, he is a counsellor, a father-figure, and a bridge-builder among the clergy and laity. His sincerity and gentleness embody the true spirit of Celestial priesthood.
EVANGELIST FRIDAY BALOGBAN
A Teacher, Builder, and Evangelist of the Faith
Among the trio, Evangelist Friday Oziegbe Balogban PhD Shepherd of CCC Promise of God Parish No 26 Oghoghoiriere street off Edaiken Primary School Road Uselu, Benin City is widely appreciated for his wisdom, patience, and gift of instruction. His approach to leadership emphasises understanding, mentorship, and the preservation of church doctrine.
He represents a generation that values continuity passing on the traditions, disciplines, and spiritual foundations of the Church to younger members. His work has strengthened unity and spiritual growth across the South-South region.
THE SYMBOLISM OF THE “THREE WISE MEN”
Just as the wise men of Scripture arrived bearing gold, frankincense, and myrrh—each symbolic of divine assignment, these three leaders also represent distinct gifts:
V/S/E Emmanuel Oviawe (General) brings gold: a symbol of kingship, order, structure, and leadership stability.
V/S/E Marvis Audu brings frankincense: the fragrance of prayer, prophecy, worship, and spiritual depth.
Evangelist Balogban brings myrrh: the essence of preservation, wisdom, teaching, and legacy-building.
Together, they form a spiritual triangle of influence balancing administration, prophecy, and doctrine ensuring that Celestial Church of Christ in the South-South region continues to shine brightly.
A MODEL FOR THE FUTURE
The value of V/S/E Emmanuel Oviawe, V/S/E Marvis Audu, and Evangelist Balogban is a shining example to every member of the Celestial Church, especially in Edo and the entire South-South region. Their service teaches that: Leadership is sacrifice, Growth is intentional, Dedication is priceless.
And sustainability is achieved when true men of God rise to uphold the sacred mandate. Their lives and ministries confirm that God always plants His ambassadors in every generation men who take responsibility for His Church and elevate it to realms beyond imagination.
