Bishop Olusola Odedeji of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West was showered with encomiums for his leadership at the celebration of the church’s 25th anniversary in Lagos State on Thursday, November 21, 2024.
Recalling the labour of the heroes past led by Odedeji, the incumbent Bishop, Dr Awelewa AdebIyi, eulogised him for the legacy left and the solid foundation laid with other principal officers like the Chancellor, Justice OpeOluwa Ogunade; the Registrar, Prince Bambo Adesanya; a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Treasurer, Dr Toyin Okeowo.
In his sermon at the thanksgiving service held at Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral in the Ikeja area of Lagos State, the Archbishop of the Province of Lagos, Archbishop Olusina Fape, said the Diocese “planted like a mustard seed has become an oak tree, an envy of many Dioceses”.
Fape commended the achievements of Bishop Odedeji, saying: “He has taken the Diocese to greater heights and made it the envy of many dioceses in the Church of Nigeria through his dynamic leadership.
“The ascension of Rt. Revd. Odedeji to the See of Lagos West could only be said to be the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in the eyes of all.”
Bishop Odedeji: Those serving in God’s vineyard are privileged people
He also applauded the role played by the late pioneer Bishop of the Diocese, Awelewa Adebiyi, saying he laid a solid foundation for the diocese.
Citing the victory of David and his acknowledgement of God’s goodness in his life, Fape noted that “no matter the plan of the kingdom of darkness, God’s plan for his children will always be fulfilled.”
“There is no way we can talk about the diocese of Lagos West, without looking at the life of David,” the cleric added.
Fape further urged Christians not to pray for their enemies to die, saying: “If they die, they won’t see God’s glory.
“Today (Thursday), by the grace of God, we are here gathered to give thanks to God for the silver jubilee inauguration of the Diocese of Lagos West. Indeed, my Lord Bishop, your existence in the last 25 years together with all your teeming members, your existence by the grace of God is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes.”
The event was attended by over 30 bishops from various dioceses, with members drawn from all churches and dioceses.
