Winners' Chapel: Oyedepo pours encomiums on retiring Bishops Abioye, Aremu

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Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), has poured encomiums on retiring Vice Presidents, Bishop David Abioye and Bishop Thomas Aremu.

Both Bishops Abioye and Aremu, whose send-off was held on Tuesday, are retiring in line with the church’s operational guidelines, known as The Mandate, which serves as the church’s constitution.

Bishop Oyedepo, who spoke at the valedictory service held in Abioye’s honour at Living Faith Church, Goshen, Abuja, on Friday, recalled for over four decades he spent at the ministry, Bishop Abioye never struggled for anything and commended him for his unwavering dedication and grace.

Oyedepo, who prayed for Abioye, said: “The celebrant of today has never struggled for anything, yet good things kept happening.

“You didn’t come my way by accident; God sent you my way, and He sent me to you.”

Oyedepo, whose sermon was entitled: Understanding the Potency of Blessings, said no skill or expertise can match the value of divine blessings, noting that the church’s success is deeply rooted in the validity of the Liberation Mandate, which he described as a divine plan, not man-made.

In her remarks, Bishop Oyedepo’s wife, Pastor Faith, reflected on their humble beginnings and their long-standing relationship with Bishop Abioye.

According to her, “It has been a long journey. I have known Bishop Abioye since before the ministry started, and you have been there from inception, from the days of small beginnings. When in the powerhouse, we used to have camp meetings in secondary schools and eat with borrowed plastic plates and spoons, and here we are today, over 40 years later, waxing stronger in the Lord. The journey has been long, and God has been faithful.”

The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Pastor Paul Enenche, celebrated Abioye for his selfless service and dedication.

“Making a difference is far more important than just making a living. Bishop Abioye’s life is a testament to that truth. He has tirelessly worked not for recognition, but to leave a lasting impact,” he said.

Similarly, the presiding Archbishop of Dominion Chapel International Churches, Archbishop John Praise, also said Abioye is a man of exceptional humility.

He said: “You cannot surpass his humility. In all my years, I have never seen anyone serve in the capacity that Bishop Abioye has, with such grace and humility.”

Bishop Abioye, while responding, said he is grateful for the opportunity to serve under Bishop Oyedepo, saying that his journey in ministry has always been about fulfilling divine purpose, not personal ambition.

Abioye recalled that, “It is a great privilege given to me by my spiritual father, Bishop David Oyedepo. For me, ministry has always been about fulfilling God’s purpose. My life, and that of my wife, has been deeply shaped by the guidance, inspiration, and covering provided by God’s servant.”

He said his relationship with Oyedepo began even before the birth of The Mandate, spanning nearly 45 years.

According to him, “This relationship is so deep and extensive, and by God’s grace, we will continue to walk in it as we engage in post-retirement activities under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”

Indeed, Bishop Abioye, who was the Senior Pastor of Living Faith Church in Goshen City, Abuja, first met Oyedepo in 1979. He led the church’s pioneer branches in 1987 and was consecrated as a bishop in 1993 at the age of 32.

For Bishop Thomas Aremu, a professional accountant, joined the ministry and played an important role in the church’s development.

He has been faithful and loyal, qualities which earned his long service making him the only bishop remaining among seven bishops consecrated in November 1999 at the Garden of Faith.

The valedictory services represent the first time that Living Faith Church will celebrate the retirement of its pastors.

While other bishops retire at 60, now reduced to 58 years, the Founder, Bishop David Oyedepo, however, retains the privilege of lifelong service. Future bishops of the church will be limited to one or two seven-year terms, subject to approval by the Board of Trustees.