CAC President, Pastor Samuel O. Oladele
By 'Gbenga Bankole & Boluwatife Oparinde
To quench the fire of criticisms and many questions that arose regarding the planned 2024 church census for Christ Apostolic Church, Nigeria and Overseas, the President of the church, Pastor Samuel O. Oladele, has assured that conducting a church census is very biblical, saying that "let no one say we are out of the Spirit."
Pastor Oladele made this known while delivering the Presidential Address at the training organized by the Research and Development Department of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, held on Friday, January 19, 2023 at the All Saints' Chapel, CAC General Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State, for regional census champions.
Regional Census Champions are selected census volunteers who will conduct training sessions in their respective regions to ensure that all volunteers are well-prepared for their roles.
Referring to biblical instances where Moses counted the children of Israel in Exodus 30:11-16 and how the book of Numbers is a book of census, Pastor Oladele explained that the program is geared towards the development of the church and ease of administration.
"As we collectively strive to deepen our understanding of our church community, plan for its growth, and foster a closer bond among our members, the role of our dedicated census officers becomes paramount," the President said.
According to the President,"this training is a testament of our commitment to excellence and precision in undertaking this vital initiative. I want to express my appreciation to each volunteer who has stepped forward to take on the responsibilities of a census officer. Your dedication reflects a deep love for our church and a genuine desire to contribute to its well-being."
"As you delve into the training and the census exercise proper, remember that you are not merely collecting data but contributing to shaping the future of the Christ Apostolic Church. Your efforts will play a crucial role in guiding our decision-making processes, facilitating targeted outreach programmes, and ensuring that the unique needs of our members are met with precision and care," he said.
Pastor Oladele who extended his best wishes to the congregation of volunteer champions, appreciated the efforts of the Research and Development Committee of the church, "who have dedicated their time and expertise to ensure the success of this training programme. Your commitment to the growth and development of our Church is truly commendable."
"May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ continue to guide and strengthen you throughout this process. Together, let us endeavor to make the Christ Apostolic Church Census a resounding success, reflecting our unity, love and devotion to the body of Christ," Pastor Oladele concluded.