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(Third from the left) CAC Oke Ayo Akuro District Superintendent, Pastor Bosun Shokunbi and his wife; (fourth from the right) the guest ministers Pastor and Dr Mrs Adeigbe and other couples posed for a shot after the hangout |
By Rachael Oke
Couples were encouraged to build their marriages on biblical principles during a couples’ hangout organized by Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Oke Ayo, Akuro, Ibadan, on Monday, April 6, 2026.
The program, held at Teachers House Hall along Molete–Oke Ado Road, Ibadan, brought married couples together for a time of fellowship, reflection and practical teaching on sustaining healthy marriages.
In his welcome address, the host and District Superintendent of CAC Oke Ayo, Akuro, Pastor Bosun Shokunbi, explained that the programme was designed to create a moment of relaxation and meaningful interaction for couples.
Recounting his childhood experience, Pastor Shokunbi recalled how his parents often created similar moments during festive seasons where they deliberately set aside time to interact and strengthen their bond.
According to him, the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of the modern world has made such moments increasingly rare, depriving couples of opportunities for communication and leisure together.
He noted that gatherings like the hangout help strengthen relationships and promote bonding among married couples.
The guest speaker, Pastor Olubunmi Adeigbe, PhD, who spoke on the theme “The Pillars of Marriage,” emphasized that marriage was instituted by God and therefore must be understood according to divine principles.
He explained that marriage predates the fall of man, stressing that anyone who desires to understand the true essence of marriage must consult the institutor—God.
Pastor Adeigbe cautioned couples against relying on advice from social media sources, noting that many people offering such counsel may themselves be victims of failed marriages.
Referencing the rising cases of divorce in many Western societies despite their high levels of education and exposure, he urged couples to pattern their marriages according to God’s template.
Speaking on differences between men and women, he observed that women are often wired to think about immediate needs while men tend to engage in deeper reflective thinking, noting that understanding these differences can help couples relate better.
He identified several key pillars necessary for a stable marriage, including love, respect, commitment, forgiveness, trust, communication and sexual intimacy.
On love, Pastor Adeigbe noted that love has always been part of African values even before Western influence, adding that the Bible provides the clearest description of love in 1 Corinthians 13.
He also encouraged men to intentionally demonstrate love to their wives.
He stressed that respect and submission in marriage should be mutual, urging men to respect the opinions of their wives while women embrace submission.
He cautioned couples against attaching unnecessary meanings to issues that could lead to conflict.
The speaker also highlighted the importance of commitment and covenant in marriage, describing commitment as sacred.
He further urged couples to practise forgiveness and extend grace to one another.
On trust and integrity, he advised couples not to make promises they cannot fulfil, while emphasizing communication as a vital element in maintaining a healthy relationship.
Pastor Adeigbe also spoke on the importance of sexual intimacy in marriage, noting that mutual satisfaction helps sustain the relationship.
He advised couples not to deprive one another or separate their beds.
Also speaking at the programme, Pastor Adeigbe’s wife, Dr (Mrs) Oluwatosin Adeigbe stressed the need for marriages to be Christ-centred.
Citing Matthew 7:24, she explained that marriages built on Christ will remain stable, especially when obey God’s word and make Him their first point of call when challenges arise.
She emphasized that sustaining love in marriage requires the active participation of both partners, encouraging couples to embrace oneness, carry each other along in decision-making, and understand each other’s unique personalities and emotional dynamics.
The hangout also featured interactive activities including couples’ games, dance sessions and a love feast, providing a relaxed atmosphere for participants to interact and strengthen their bonds. The programme created an opportunity for couples to unwind, connect with one another and reflect on practical ways of building stronger, Christ-centred marriages.
Photos speak.
