The Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) has been thrown into mourning following the sudden deaths of three prominent clerics on January 1, 2025.
The deceased pastors, Evangelist Oladotun Elusanmi, Shepherd Olumuyiwa Michael, and Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Johnson Olajuwon, were all based in Lagos State.
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Elusanmi served as the Shepherd of Orisun Ayo Parish, Ilupeju; Michael was the Shepherd In-Charge of Christ Testimony Parish, Ikorodu; and Olajuwon was the Prophet of the Celestial Church of Christ, Saint S.B.J. Oshoffa Cathedral, International Headquarters, Ketu.
The deaths were confirmed by the church’s media head, Superior Evangelist Kayode Ajala, who expressed the profound loss felt by the church community.
Olajuwon’s passing was particularly shocking, as he had actively participated in the cross-over service on New Year’s Eve.
According to Superior Evangelist Ajala, “The suddenness of his passing has left many in shock, as he had read the second lesson at the service and was full of life until his demise early on New Year’s Day.”
Tributes have poured in from across the Celestial Church community. The Shepherd of CCC International Headquarters, Ketu, Olatosho Oshoffa, described Olajuwon as a “dedicated, loyal, and truthful servant of God.”
Similarly, social media platforms have been flooded with messages of grief and condolences from church members.
Shepherd Michael’s death was announced on the CCC Christ Testimony Parish, Ikorodu Facebook page, while Elusanmi’s passing was shared via the Instagram account “Celestialgeneration.”
In response to concerns raised by some members about the coincidence of the three deaths, Ajala urged calm, dismissing any superstitious interpretations.
“Death is a necessary end, and it will come at the appropriate time for everyone. People die every day. If three people die in a church as large as Celestial, coincidentally on the same day, it is not unusual,” he said.
Ajala extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the church’s support during this challenging time.
“The leadership of the church commiserates with the families. We will continue to pray against sudden deaths while offering them spiritual and emotional support,” he added.
The tragic losses have underscored the unpredictability of life and left the Celestial Church community united in grief as they reflect on the service and legacies of the departed clerics.
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