THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

What a wonderful God we serve!At the beginning of year 2007, we could not have imagined what great heights in individual lives and together as a church, the Lord intended to take us. At the end of the year and looking back at the year 2007, we are so overwhelmed by the glory and majesty of our Lord. To Him alone be the glory. We saw people getting saved, lives changed, deeper communion with the Lord, transformations, marriages turned around, diseases healed, babies born, our first set of twins, three new missions established (Watford, Glasgow and lately Torry re-borne), many moved into their first homes, excellence in academics, great jobs, and many more. And what shall we say about that glorious miracle, the answer to the yearnings of many hearts who have cried at the sight of many magnificent church buildings turned into pubs, restaurants and nightclubs. Suddenly like the battle between David and Goliath, the Lord miraculously gave us victory over many developers and other bidders in the contest for what was the old Holburn Central parish of the Church of Scotland. The original building was erected in 1836 in the record time of one year, a feat that earned the project leaders special commenda-tion. The old church grew immensely and at a time, the membership was 3,000 and it was the third largest congregation of the Church of Scotland. Unfortunately matters went downhill so badly, that the entire church would be closed and building sold. We rejoice greatly for the privilege the Lord has given us in redeeming and handing the building over to us. One thing we are sure of, the glory of the latter house shall surpass that of the former. And to His glory, this altar shall keep burning until the Lord returns.

For the members, Christians, parishes and others from all over the world who gave and continue to give ‘bricks’ of all shapes and sizes to make the redemption possible, my prayer for you is simple but deep: The Lord will remember you for good, with favour and with mercy according to His great love, for the good you have done and continue to do towards His house. Your name and faithful deeds towards His house will not be blotted out! Amen!

This is the second edition of the magazine. Read it, enjoy it and be blessed. Pass around to others and enjoy the year 2008, the year that the Lord has made, the year and the season of the fisherman.

Pastor Mark Igiehon

CITYof GODThe Jesus House Aberdeen & Inverness Magazine

Editor-in-ChiefPastor Mark Igiehon

EditorIdongesit Umoh

Editorial TeamUche Okorji, Idara Akpan, Solomon Akere, Kenechukwu Njoku, Dolapo Tade,

Segun Akinkugbe, Morenikeji Oni, Tosin Emilorun, Lucky Anuopogena, Friday Aniekan

ContributorsAlero Igiehon, Hyacinth Meze, Dapo Nurudeen, Ngozi Vincent-Eloagu,

Christy Surtees, Michael Dada, Jimmy Akande, Chuma Okoronkwo (Nigeria), Samuel Denis (Hungary), Raymond Eli (USA), Dapo Olowodaran (Rouen),

Photography Kush and RCCG Internet Project

Design/Layout/PrintingImaginovation

(www.imaginovation.co.uk 07956 497 376)

Jesus House AberdeenCharity Registered in Scotland SC037926

Worship Centres in Aberdeen

1. City of God Centre, 20 Holburn road, Aberdeen AB10 6BT, Scotland2. Balnagask Community Centre, Balnagask road, Torry, Aberdeen AB11 8HQ, Scotland

Church Office: City of God Centre, 20 Holburn Street, Aberdeen, AB10 6BT, Scotland

Tel: +44 (0)1224 588884 Mobile: +44 (0 )7525 845 560 Fax: +44 (0)1224 588884 Email: info@jesushouseaberdeen.org

www.jesushouseaberdeen.org

The Redeemed Christian Church of Godwww.rccg.org

editorial

contents

CITYof GOD

THEJ E S U S H O U S E

S U M M E R 2 0 0 8

THE

The word “Torry” is believed to have been derived from Torr, a Gaelic word for a rounded hill or hillocks. Therefore the word “Torry” could mean a hill. One is reminded of the scripture in

Matthew 5:14b that “A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid”. We believe the Lord has taken delight in Torry and granted us a privilege by planting Jesus House in this part of the city of Aberdeen.

Early HistoryA look at the map of Aberdeen will reveal that Torry is located on the east coast of Aberdeen, the point where the River Dee empties into the North Sea. This makes the history of Torry an interesting one and closely connected to the sea. A close look into available records revealed that the pattern and manner of life of the old Torry people was hard, rugged and closely associated with fishing, which was for a long time, carried on in a crude and un-mechanised form. Until the introduction of trawl fishing, fishing in old Torry was carried on through line fishing.

It will be difficult to date precisely when the earliest settlers arrived in Torry, but it is on record that when the Vikings invaded Aberdeen in 1153AD, they were seen by the inhabitants of Torry as they docked in the harbour. The village of Torry was until the 1880’s populated by numerous fishing families, who made up about 87% of the population. With the introduction of fishing trawlers, a large number of migrants moved in, mainly from Stonehaven. These fishing families inter-married and were able to keep their trade alive.

The rise in population of Torry together with attendant trading activities led the then King of Scotland, James IV to grant a Royal Charter to the community of Torry on 11th December 1495, thereby making it a free burgh of the Barony. This gave the people of Torry the freedom to trade and be traded with, to elect Baillie’s, appoint burgesses in the burgh and a licence to have a cross. They were also free to hold a weekly market on Fridays as well as a yearly fair on St. Fitticks Day.

Torry in early times was not a part of Aberdeen, a fact which was compounded by the natural divide created by the River Dee, which separated the village of Torry from the city of Aberdeen. Travel between Torry village and Aberdeen town was by means of a ferry until the building of the Wellington Suspension Bridge in 1830, which linked the north side of the River Dee to Torry. Following a ferry disaster on 5th April 1876 in which about 32 people lost their lives, a decision was taken to build a bridge linking the rest of Aberdeen to Torry. This bridge was opened in July 1881 and was named the Victoria Bridge.

Early Christian EnterpriseThe earliest known Christian enterprise was the building before the reformation era, of St Fitticks Church on St Fitticks Road and named after the patron Saint of Torry. The church was said to have been rebuilt in the 1800’s. As a result of a large number of immigrants streaming into Torry from Stonehaven, the need arose for bigger places of worship as well as schools.

Furthermore, there seems to have been an outbreak of a revival of some sort around the 1840’s. This resulted in one Dr Spence being com-missioned to build a church for the growing community. He therefore built a wooden church, which was completed in 1843, the same year it was started. In 1865 the population of the church had swollen and the need arose for a bigger church to be built since the old one could no longer accommodate worshippers. This was completed in 1866 and could seat 250 people in one service. Subsequently, the need arose once again for a bigger worship centre and a standard church building was caused to be erected and this culminated in the laying of the foundation stone of a church on Victoria Road in the October of 1889, by Sir William Henderson for the Free Church of Scotland. The first service was held on the 22nd June 1890 with Professor Laidlaw of Edinburgh as preacher. Regrettably, the same church was eventually closed down, with the last service held on Sunday 26th May 1991. Fortunately a foundation was laid in about 1869 for a church that will escape the era of closure, conversion to other use or complete and outright disposal.

A merger took place between the Free Church of Scotland and the United Presbyterian Church in 1900 with the new name of the United Free Church of Scotland. Furthermore a second group eventually built a church in 1929 on Grampian Road that survived through the years. St Fitticks Church is still in existence probably due to the foundation work and the availability of committed Christians to carry on the Lord’s work. Its survival could also be partly attributed to the fact that the closure of Torry Church on Victoria Road resulted in the members uniting with the members of St Fitticks Church.

The majority of those who resettled in Torry from Stonehaven were of the Scottish Episcopal Church. They were able to build a church named St Peter’s Scottish Episcopal Church on Victoria Road in 1893. This church presently has been converted into blocks of flats while the remaining members of the church now use the adjoining hall as their place of worship. There is also the Victoria Hall on Victoria Road, built in 1900 with support coming from some fishermen at Torry. Two other churches in Torry are the Salvation Army and the Catholic Church. Jesus House is privileged to be associated with the Torry St. Fittciks Church and the Salvation Army with whom a number of joint services have been held.

Torry in Recent Times Torry progressively moved from being a predominantly fishing community to one of ship building as some individuals embarked in this venture. With the discovery of oil in the North Sea in 1974, Torry also became host to many oil companies drilling for oil in the sea. For instance Shell UK is walking distance from Torry and lies between Tullos and Nigg. As a result of the abundance of drilling activities and allied companies rendering services, Torry witnessed a lot of changes as the people began to make money from ‘black gold’. Old Torry was also demolished and replaced with new and better-planned houses.

Continued on page 19

A Short History of

Torry‘Dry Bones shall Live Again’BY PASTOR MARK IGIEHON AND HYACINTH MEZE

God has a plan for Torry. A brief consideration of the history of Torry bears that out.

3 A Short History of Torry ‘Dry Bones shall Live Again’by Pastor Mark Igiehon and Hyacinth Meze

4 COG Inauguration/Thanksgiving Service • The Miraculous Story of The Nehemiah Building Project

6 The Family CornerPARTNER SEARCH - Some words of wisdom by Alero Igiehon

7 Events Kaleidoscope• Prince Charles Celebrates 59th Birthday At RCCG Jesus House London• Prime Minister Gordon Brown Addresses RCCG Festival Of Life• All Scotland Holy Ghost Night

8 Highlights from Jesus House Aberdeen

10 Jesus House Inverness Ascending to Higher Grounds in the Highlands

by Christy Surtees

11 Glasgow City of God Our Miraculous Parish in Glasgow by Pastor Segun Akinkugbe Jesus House Budapest Moving to the Next Level

by Samuel Denis, Parish Pastor

12 Tips For Prayerby Pastor Dapo Nurudeen, Jesus House Torry

The “City Of God”, Watford, UK Our Story So Farby Pastor Michael Dada

13 Christian Media & Information Centre Surtees Family Diary On Trip To Nigeria For RCCG Convention

14 Jesus House San Diego, USA The Hunger of Jesus by Pastor Raymond Eli

15 Junior’s Corner

16 Interview With Provincial Pastor Kola Bolanta by Solomon Akere and Dolapo Tade

18 Volunteering: A Service To God By Ngozi Vincent-Eloagu

TESTIMONY CORNERSOCIALS

20 Standing Before Kings21 Jesus House Rouen Winning The Battle of Nornady

by Pastor Dapo Olowodaran

...Because It Is Jesus Houseby Jimmy Akande

22 General information on RCCG RCCG’s Holy Ghost Congress Arena Is World’s Largest Auditorium

THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

JESUS HOUSE “CITY OF GOD CENTRE” BUILDINGHOLBURN STREET, ABERDEEN

THE MIRACULOUS STORY OF THE NEHEMIAH BUILDING PROJECT

Church building

Congregation dancing for joyPastor Mark Igiehon

The congregation

The choir

Ministers rejoicing

Thanksgiving service

Special song by the choir

Dr. Giwa-Osagie & Family from JH Inverness

Off to lunch

The ushers

Provincial Pastor Bolanta dancing

Nehemiah Project Coordinator, Femi and Wife

The Surtees

� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

Feature from The SUNRISE Magazine, the official publication of the RCCG Central Office

� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

• God has ordained one woman for every man (Genesis 2:20-21).

• God prepares a woman for her husband and it is the man’s responsibility to seek and discover the woman God has prepared as his wife (Genesis 2:22, Prov.18.22). Therefore, woman, allow God to do His work of leading your husband to you.

• God makes the choice based on what is best for you. After all, He formed us (Gen 24:12–14).

• Woman, do not let the man who tells you nice things fool you. Let God have the final say.

• DO NOT BE HASTY. It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way (Proverbs 19:2).

• There is a period of seeking (Genesis 2:18) and finding - Genesis2:23, and it is the man who finds with the leading of the Holy Spirit. He who finds a wife, finds what is good and receives favour from the LORD (Proverb 18:22, 2:8). Remember, there is a time and season for everything under the sun (Eccles 3:1, Prov.16:25).

• Woman, for God to bring you to the man who is your husband, itis vital that you adorn yourself with the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet (peaceable, of good temperament) spirit, which is so precious to God. Do not be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewellery, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God (1Peter 3:3 –4).

• For both the man and woman, the Spirit of God will lead if we are indeed sons and daughters of God. To be led by the spirit is to put to death the misdeeds of the body, and be alive in Christ (Romans 8:12-14). We therefore can understand when God talks to us in the still audible voice, in dreams and visions, through HIS word

and Godly counsel, through Word of Knowledge and through prophecies.

• Man, in uprightness and with an honest desire for a life partner,you will be guided by God to make the right choice. The integrity (honesty) of the upright guides them but the perverseness of trans-gressors shall destroy them (Proverb 11:3).

• Leave the bed undefiled before marriage and exercise self control, otherwise you will lose focus and God will not guide you to your right partner. This is of course a requirement in marriage as well. Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers (fornicators) and adulterers God will judge (Hebrews 13:4). Like a city whose walls are broken down, is a man who lacks self-control (Proverbs 25:28)

HOW CAN I BE SURE?• Be convinced (fully persuaded in your mind, let there be no fear,

no conflict, no doubt) that the person is one who fears and loves God, loves you and has similar life goals. Be convinced that you can live with each other for the rest of your lives, in love, holiness and in the fear of God.

Peace of mind concerning the choice confirms it.

Becoming a Woman of Substance is the wish of every woman and the S-2-S program was focused on this goal.

Organised by the Women Fellowship of Jesus House Aberdeen, it had Pastor Dupe Afolabi as the Guest Minister. A wife, mother and pastor, she is the Administrator of the RCCG Central Office overseeing over 300 parishes of the RCCG. She also pastors a RCCG parish in London with over eight nationalities.

You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.

Sister-to-Sister Women’s Program Guest Minister: Pastor Dupe Afolabi

PartnerSearch

Some words of wisdomBY ALERO IGIEHON

FAMILY CORNER EVENTS KALEIDOSCOPE

PRINCE CHARLES CELEBRATES 59TH BIRTHDAY AT

RCCG JESUS HOUSE LONDON“In Your church you are doing things Jesus would do if He were walking the streets of London”

- HRH Prince Charles

HRH Prince Charles and wife Lady Camilla were hosted to a grand celebration of the prince’s birthday at Jesus House London, the largest of the over 300 parishes of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in the UK and Ireland. In a well attended ceremony, the prince paid tribute to the RCCG and other churches from outside the UK, for bringing life into the Christian church in UK and completing the cycle started by British missionaries years ago.

PRIME MINISTER GORDON BROWN ADDRESSES RCCG FESTIVAL OF LIFE

The Festival of Life (FoL) London is the largest Christian gathering in Europe, with well over 45,000 attendees. The event which is hosted by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) holds twice yearly in March & November. The November, 2007 FoL meeting featured a special video address by the Prime Minister Gordon Brown encouraging the efforts of the RCCG in the UK. The first meeting in 2008 on 28th March featured the world renown evangelist, Reinhard Bonnke ministering alongside RCCG’s General Overseer, Pastor E.A. Adeboye and other ministers.

ALL SCOTLAND HOLY GHOST NIGHTThe All Scotland Holy Ghost Night holds quarterly in a chosen city in Scotland. Jesus House Aberdeen had the privilege of hosting this for the first time in May, 2008. Hundreds came from Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow, Fraserburg, etc to praise and pray to God in one accord.

Pastor Chris Gbenle ministering Holy Ghost Night congregation Praise and worship time

Holy Ghost Night congregation praying Holy Ghost Night congregation rejoicing

� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008

Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke ministering

Festival of Life congregation

� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 �

COUNTDOWN TO PENIEL 2008 PENIEL 2007 HIGHLIGHTS

BY KENECHUKWU NJOKU

JESUS HOUSE CLOCKS FOUR ON 6TH JUNE!! – RECOLLECTIONS FROM A FOUNDING MEMBER

Jesus House was 3 months old when I came over to Aberdeen to pursue my masters. Back then we had three families in Church and it was more like a family get-together.

The Church has been a tremendous blessing to me and many others who came here as students; making us to feel at home in Aberdeen. Pastor Mark and the other ministers have been a great support in our academics, with advice and prayers

Most importantly, many people who joined the Church with skeletal knowledge of God have deepened their relationship with Him. Many have become more responsible by taking up roles in various Church departments and become like David’s mighty men. To God be the glory.

Reverend Mann Peniel choir Peniel Jeans choir

Peniel congregation Peniel Inverness group with Pastor Mark Igiehon

HIGHLIGHTS FROM JESUS HOUSE ABERDEEN

VALENTINE DAY PARTYThe young and the not so young came together to celebrate God’s Love on Val’s day at the City of God Conference Hall.

JESUS HOUSE ABERDEEN (II) - TORRY PARISH MARCHES ONThe new church building on Holburn street is home to the Jesus House “City of God” parish in Aberdeen. The Jesus House parish at Torry continues to hold Sunday services at the Balnagask Community centre with Dapo Nurudeen as the overseeing minister. According to Pastor Mark “The Lord called us to Torry and we do not intend to abandon Torry” .

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP COMMENCES AT UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN

A new fellowship has been started by some students of the University of Aberdeen. Jesus House has been a ministry of choice for students in Aberdeen for some time due to its special focus on the youths.

Ministers

M.Sc. student members of Jesus House at graduation

BIBLE COLLEGE ENROLMENT BY JESUS HOUSE HITS RECORD NUMBERSJesus House Aberdeen currently has thirteen students in the RCCG Bible College for the 2007/8 session, probably the highest from any one parish at any of the college campuses. This is a tremendous improvement from eight students who graduated in the last session.

Safari Park Visit by Jesus House families

Once again, the season of Peniel is here in Aberdeen. A scripture verse reads that “…in the days of His power, the people shall be willing”. We thank God for the outpouring of His grace at last year’s PENIEL 2007 program and all the people from Scotland and beyond whom God used to make this annual 4-day program of Jesus House a great success. From 5th - 8th July, 2007 the Aberdeen Beach Ballroom venue was the destination for power packed messages, inspirational music, worship and God’s presence. There was a hunger for God’s touch as people from diverse nationalities

willingly surrendered their lives to God during the program. Great faith was stirred up in the people’s hearts from the power-packed teachings by the anointed ministers: Revd David Omo-Osemwengie, Revd. Lyndsay Mann and Pastor Chris Gbenle. Miracles, healings, prophecies and blessings were manifest throughout and testimonies abound.

Please do not miss out. Be a part of PENIEL 2008 between July 9th to 13th and God will surely bless you richly.

Peniel congregation worshipping

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TGIFThe TGIF crew and Jesus House reggae band caused an uproar in the heart of the city of Aberdeen recently.TGIF is really a wonderful time in the presence of God as youths gather in the City of God to have a good time together. Highlights of the day include jokes, quiz, playlet and games, and prizes for the best and brightest. TGIF attracted the youths of the city dancing to praises unto God and everyone was blessed.

TGIF

Church Service

�0 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 ��

JESUS HOUSE INVERNESSAscending to Higher Grounds in the Highlands

BY CHRISTY SURTEES

Jesus House Inverness has continued to grow in the grace and blessing of our Lord. As promised by the Lord in a prophecy at the beginning of the year, a thriving children’s ministry has

sprung up. At present there are two newly trained workers caring for 10 children who attend regularly. This ministry will continue to grow, so more workers will be needed, and a youth group is starting to form. The girls like to be involved with the choir and have formed a dance troop. The boys need a sportier outlet for their energy! May the Lord provide a talented worker who will encourage this group in His ways. We now have our own bus and the Lord has been blessing us on all fronts.

An outreach was held in a church hall in the centre of Inverness. Invites and posters were distributed beforehand, and many people came enjoying the friendly atmosphere. The gospel singing, dancing, bookstall and food variety drew in passers-by. Many were hearing the true message of Jesus for the first time, or were reminded of God’s goodness.

We appreciate Pastors Peju and Niyi who have been such a blessing to the Church. Seasonal greetings are sent to all who have supported the Lord’s work here in any way. May you have an exceptional year full of the Lord’s peace and blessings. God is so good to those He loves – Praise the Lord for His mercy and grace.

Jesus House InvernessWorship Centre:

Royal Highland Hotel, Station Square, Academy Street, Inverness

www.jesushouseinverness.org

JESSICA MACLENNAN PUBLISHES BOOK - “Love Songs to Jehovah”

Living like every other person, Jessica Maclennan leaped with joy to have found someone she could call her heart throb. Suddenly it happened, her heart was broken and she was left with nothing except dashed hopes. All she could say was that life was nothing but

misery. Only when the Holy Spirit stepped in was her life changed for good. Today she lives happier than ever. Why not go through her testimony and your life will be blessed. Auntie Jessica worships with Jesus House Inverness and has been a blessing to the ministry. A poem excerpt from her book is given below;

He Found Me A Poem by Jessica Maclennan

When I was lost in the dark When I was deep in despair When my faith had all goneWhen my anger was strong When I felt all alone and trusted no one When I was wounded and sore When I was nearly destroyed But I will be strong and stand tall once again

He found me He found me He found me He found me He found me He found me He found meNow that He has found me.

Members with Pastor Kola Bolanta

Inverness choir

Youth choreography team Provincial Pastor Kola Bolanta’s visit to Jesus House Inverness

GLASGOW CITY OF GODOur Miraculous Parish in GlasgowBY PASTOR SEGUN AKINKUGBE

In September, 2007, Pastor Mark Igiehon, our Senior Pastor in Jesus house Aberdeen commissioned a two-man mission team to start the “City of God” parish, Glasgow. Thus began an incredible

adventure that has showcased God’s faithfulness and favour, and has personally caused me to ponder on God’s awesome ways and thank Him for the privilege of partaking in this mission.

Prior to the commission, we had been to Glasgow to look through the land and seek a place of worship. After a night of prayers, God led us to the Junction Bar in the heart of the city centre where we were

granted a lease of the first floor hall. We held a prayer vigil ahead of our first service, asking God to prosper the work, and since then the pace at which the work has progressed has been outstanding.

At our first service we were 6 in attendance, then numerically we progressed to 35 members on Sundays within a short period. To the glory of God, the work in Glasgow has attested to the faithfulness of God and has confirmed the word of God as given by Christ’’…if I be lifted up from the earth I will draw all men unto Me”.

Our vision is to build a church that will change the spiritual climate of Glasgow. Our focus is on prayer, evangelism, worship and the word. The church has many students from three major universities (Glasgow, Caledonian and Strathclyde), hence we are a young and very vibrant church, full of energy and life. As we forge ahead, our prayer is that God will through us touch the land and bring a revival to Glasgow, Scotland and the United Kingdom.

JESUS HOUSE BUDAPEST Moving to the Next LevelBY SAMUEL DENIS, PARISH PASTOR

A majority of Hungarians became Christians in the 10th century when Hungary’s first king, Saint Stephen, took up Christianity. The communist

era (1945 – 1986) was a major setback to the Christian faith in Hungary. However, through the Christian ministry, a lot of Hungarians today have redirected their lives to God and accepted Jesus as the Messiah of Hungary. Hungary was also known to have a high suicide rate, but through the message of hope, many now have a reason to be alive. After operating as Saturday fellowship for over a year, the Lord moved us to the next level, as we formally commenced our Sunday services on 19th August, 2007 in a well located hall. God has added men and women to our ministry from all over the place as it was in the early church, and our members are growing spiritually. A lot of people developing a close relationship with God; Immigrants are being granted resident visas for up to five years; Job opportunities are increasing and people’s financial status is also improving; Students have been coming out with first class degrees and businesses have been succeeding immensely. We give God all the glory.

WEEKLY CALENDAR

Sunday Services10 a.m. at Church venue, 1084 Budapest Orczy kert 1, Sports hall of the Afrique internationale F.C stadium, orczy kert. ( Metro: M3 or Blue metro to Nagyvárad tér. Tram: no. 24 from Baross tér Kelet Pu. to Nagyvárad tér)

Bible Study5.30pm on Saturdays at Oby’s House, 1084 Budapest, Futo ut 1, Bell no. 89 (Tram: Tram no. 4 or 6 to Barros ut).

Night Vigil12 midnight, last Friday of the month at Oby’s House, 1084 Budapest, Futo ut 1 Bell no. 89 (Tram: no. 4 or 6 to Barros ut).

Bible study with the Provincial Pastor Kola BolantaGlasgow outreach

APPRECIATION TO JESUS HOUSE By Afrique International Football Club, Budapest

Service Visit by Minister

Pastor Samuel Exhortation

�� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 ��

An attitude today is: everything is working fine, so why bother with prayer?Prayer is one of the vital principles that Jesus identified with while here on earth. He was consistently seen withdrawing Himself for prayers. His ministry was so successful that he had over 5,000 men (excluding women and children) with Him in the wilderness in one night of crusade. We would expect that such a Man would not have time for prayer anymore, but no; on the contrary, He was addicted to it.

How did Jesus start off His ministry? He went into the wilderness for forty days preparing in prayers for 3 years of ministry. Do you put in similar efforts into preparing for all your decisions (especially major ones) as well? Let us imagine preparation as your foundation for a building structure. This is what prayer really is. Friends, when you have a solid foundation in place, the strength of your structure is sure. Often times, we concern ourselves with making the decoration of the building beautiful that we neglect the foundation. Your planning is fortified when you pray it through. You do not have to live life in circles when you have the privilege of getting it right through prayers.

What does prayer have to offer you?Direction: Commit your ways, and He shall direct your path. The greatest tragedy in our generation is not what to do. For many

people, it is how do I get it done. Prayer is like a compass or satellite navigator. It helps you find your path. Life is nothing but struggle when you leave it to chance. You cannot afford trial and error anymore. It slows down destiny. Reach out to your help available in prayer.

You get direction when you engage in what I call prayer of enquiry. This is the prayer described in Matt 10:10. Tell God specific things, ask Him specific questions and make sure He answers you. You will not be a wanderer in 2008!

Revelation: Many Christians think prayer starts and ends with asking and receiving. This is the least of what prayer is all about. The Bible reads, “call upon Me, I will answer you and show you great and mighty things... “. God wants to reveal many things to His children. One of the avenues reserved for that is your prayer altar. He knows the end from the beginning. He is the Alpha and Omega. Prayer is like a microscope or magnifying lens used by scientist in the laboratory. You cannot afford to go through life, just getting by or scratching the surface. Where the treasures of life are, is in the deep. You need God to reveal it to you. One of the things that happens when you pray is that God commu-nicates with your spirit. Remember He is a Spirit.

As you explore these two tips in your prayer time, watch out for undeniable proofs in your life.

THE “CITY OF GOD” , WATFORD, UKOur Story So FarBY MICHAEL DADA, PARISH PASTOR

Watford is the largest city in Hertfordshire, UK. It is a city where the Lord is really moving spiritually among His people and where the work of the gospel is yielding fruit. It is a city

with a Christian Mayor and Chief of Police Superintendent. There is also a strong Christian Business Community, and unity among the indigenous Christians. We have also been involved with the city’s Chaplaincy prayer walks for the city, coordinated a Prayer & Fasting program for the city’s Christians as well as other programs.

We fellowship in an informal setting every Sunday afternoon by 12pm and House fellowships on Wednesdays. By the special grace of God we found favour and have been holding our services for close to a year now in a beautiful Christian Resource Centre located on the top floor “The Presence”, a high brow coffee shop and shopping centre on Watford’s high street. However, from the end of June, 2008 our services will be holding at The Hub, 3-5 Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD18 0GX

Our recent outreach to the youths was very successful and gave us the opportunity to present Christ to many who have never known Him. Our goal is to reach out to those that really want to hear about the gospel but have mixed feelings about going into a “church building”. These programs, the Lord in His wisdom has used to bring people to the knowledge of the gospel and He is still doing so.

We want the brethren to pray for the work of God in Watford. Par-ticularly, that the Lord will add more labourers to His church. As for membership, that He will add those that are really hungry for the truth and real fellowship to His church.

See our website for more information: www.cityofgodwatford.org

TIPS FOR PRAYERBY DAPO NURUDEEN, PARISH PASTOR, JESUS HOUSE TORRY

DEDICATION OF BABY GABRIEL (PASTOR’S SON) AT CITY OF GOD

Chaplain of Watford dedicates Baby Gabriel

Members and well-wishers at dedication

Youth Outreach Program

Sandy and Christy Surtees of Jesus House Inverness and their daughter Cassie travelled to Nigeria in the summer of 2007 to visit Jesus House PH, and attend the RCCG 55th Annual

Convention at the Redemption Camp, near Lagos, Nigeria. It was indeed a memorable visit as they share their recollections from their diaries:

Having lived in the UK for all our lives and never ventured abroad before, (Furthest afield before Land’s End, Cornwall and Orkney), this was an amazing adventure and a daunting epic all rolled into one. Seasoned travellers we definitely were not.

Journey to Nigeria

We left Inverness on the 29th July 2007, and flew from Aberdeen the next day to Lagos. After the miles and miles of bland desert and cloud, we descended to see a myriad of red, green and blue rooftops stretching out before us like a patchwork of life. We had arrived at Lagos. The colours and brightness of light struck me as we walked out of the airport. I just couldn’t stop looking and staring at it all. The next day we flew to Port Harcourt.

1st Week –Jesus House Port Harcourt, Nigeria

The church (Jesus House PH) was amazing. So full of people who want to be there, and not checking their watches to see how soon they can leave, whether Pastors, workers or congregation. All ages, status and class joining together to worship God. After the early service of 1,800 people left, another 1,800 people came in eager to begin the next service. 4 services each Sunday full of people wanting to learn more and adore more of the Lord God. Amazing grace indeed, humbling to see and be part of.

2nd Week – RCCG Redemption Camp, Lagos, Nigeria

The sounds of millions of people (over 4 million) singing God’s praise together contrasted with the hushed silences of entire families listening intently to the message of the gospel. The simple-ness of the message delivered in gentle love, but carrying such force and power that thousands ran to receive God’s promises at the altar calls. Old overtaking the young, rushing to receive God’s blessings. Grown men on their knees sobbing before God’s altar, self-importance melted into their tears. Women dancing with joyful abandonment assured in the new knowledge of God’s personal love for them. The response to every altar call had me in tears praising God for His goodness and mercy, and made me feel so aware of my own shortcomings and need of His love. In that immense crowd God singled each of us out to share a personal time with Him. Words cannot describe it adequately and I will never forget it.

“Two things made the biggest impression on me (Sandy). The hospitable nature of the Nigerian people and the unbelievable number of youths involved in the church”. I am praying for our youth in Scotland to return to Christ with such a heart.

For Cassie, the testimonies of what God is doing for people were so powerful. I really look forward to going back sometime

Back to Inverness

After two very full weeks we left Lagos very fulfilled. Back in Inverness, everything seemed peculiarly strange. I had a new pair of eyes and ears to see life here with. Things common for all my life were suddenly appreciated in a different novel way.

Sandy, Christy & Cassie Surtees,Inverness, Scotland

CHRISTIAN MEDIA AND INFORMATION CENTREBY UCHE OKORJIRECOMMENDED READING

I Dared To Call Him Father

Scared of calling God your father? In doubt of what your friends may say? Afraid of what the world will take you for? Press the stop button because you’ve reached an answer. Get this Book, read it and discover for yourself what stand you should take.

RECOMMENDED LISTENING

NKJV Audio New Testament- Narrated by Stephen Johnston

Thank God for technology. Why not get this wonderful package. Good as a gift and for personal use. Enjoy the Bible while in the car, around the house, when exercising, or while relaxing.

Internet Radio – Daily Message from Pastor E.A. Adeboye. Every Weekday at 14.00 GMT at www.rccg.org

RECOMMENDED VIEWING

Webcast of RCCG Monthly Holy Ghost Service, 1st Friday, every month with Pastor E.A. Adeboye at www.rccg.org

SURTEES FAMILY DIARY ON TRIP TO NIGERIA FOR RCCG CONVENTION

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INTRODUCTIONThat the Lord of the Universe would feel hungry can be an absurd thought. After all, God said in Psalm 50:12, “If I were hungry [for the bulls being offered as sacrifices], I would not mention it to you, for all the world is Mine and everything in it.”

One significant reason for Jesus’ hunger can be attributed to the fact that while here on earth, He was a man (showing all the emotions and desires thereof, but without sin). Philippians 2:6-7 says, Though He was God, He did not demand and cling to His rights as God. He made Himself nothing; He took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. So we are dealing here, with God who had become man, and thus subject to human emotions and desires, including the need for food! Certain things are not worth discussing, but when those things have to do with a dignitary, then, it is news worthy. The hunger of Jesus is such an issue that is news worthy: after all, we all get hungry at some point in time!

WHAT DOES BEING HUNGRY CONNOTE?Being hungry connotes a desire for some thing that can fill or satisfy one’s felt need. By this description, one could be hungry for things other than food in the everyday natural sense. Food thus, can be indicative of that thing that brings fulfilment to a desire.

In John 4:32-34, when Jesus was being offered natural food for the belly, He said, “I have food you do not know about: My nourishment comes from doing the will of God who sent Me, and from finishing His work. And in Deuteronomy 8:3, Moses, speaking to the children of Israel said, ‘Yes, He humbled you by letting you go hungry, and then feeding you with manna, a food previously unknown to you and your ancestors. He did it to teach that people need more than bread for their life; real life comes by feeding on every word of the Lord.’

Thus, physical hunger for food is God’s way of constantly reminding us of what our ultimate real hunger ought to be: A spiritual hunger for Him! A hunger for His word! A hunger for His will to be done! A hunger to obey His every word! A hunger to always be in His presence!

Taking a look at the ‘Hunger of Jesus’ thus seeks to remind us of our need to have a sincere desire for God! In this story, Jesus’ hunger not only reminds us of His (and, indeed God’s) hunger for figs, but for much more important things. This is the kernel of this message.

WHAT IS JESUS (GOD) HUNGRY FOR TODAY?Contrary to what we may have been hearing all over the place, God is not hungry for money, neither is He hungry for the rich and renown. God’s hunger is for some very deep things as follows:

Genuine Thanksgiving. There is true thanks-giving, and there is false or deceptive thanksgiving. Nations declare Thanksgiv-ing holidays, which have turned into times of visiting families and friends, getting out the barbecue sets and having turkey, etc. (which in itself is not a bad thing to do), but it does not satisfy the hunger of God because the people are not going to Him! He is not

the object of their celebration. Psalm 50:14; Ephesians 5:15-20; 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Fulfilment of Your Vows to God. Vows are considered a very serious matter by God. Vows made to God include those resolutions you may have made at a time when you were going through tough times; and the oath you took when you were getting married to your spouse (of course, the under-standing here is that of marriage between a man and a woman). Vows can very easily be made in times of trouble, but when we are out of the doldrums, we quickly and very conveniently forget to fulfil such vows! Psalm 50:14; Ecclesiastes 5:1-6; Malachi 2:14-16.

Justice, Mercy, and Humility. Again, Micah 6:6-8 informs us of God’s hunger not being in the sacrifices of bulls and cows, but in the sacrificial living of people: to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God. These are evidently things that people are mostly unable and unwilling to do. Instead of justice, we tend to practice partiality and favouritism; instead of mercy, we see a love for vengeance; and, instead of a humble walk with God, we are generally arrogant about our relationship with Him. Micah 6:6-8; James 2:1-9; 1:26-27; 4:6-10; Jeremiah 9:23-24.

Labourers in the Kingdom. In Matthew 9:35-38, the Lord Jesus declares that there is indeed a great harvest, but so few labourers (or harvesters). He urges us to pray to God for workers to be introduced into the field. The need for men and women who would be involved in the harvesting of souls is very paramount. When a person enters into a re-lationship with the Lord, it is not just for him/her to be blessed by the Lord only, rather, it is for him/her to be a blessing in addition! The reason God blesses us is so that we can through our blessings, become a blessing to others. Being a blessing comes in form of giving of oneself to the work of the Lord by bringing in others into the glorious kingdom of our God, through witnessing (telling people about Jesus), and by our daily living. Matthew 9:35-38; Luke 1:68-75; 10:1-2; John 4:35-38.

The Souls of Men and Women. This is a hunger which can easily be misunderstood as though, God were a cannibal, or one who desires the souls of men and women for some esoteric (evil) purpose. The truth is, God’s desire for the souls of men and women is for their own good. It is to save their souls from the destruction and eternal damnation that awaits sinners at the end of this age. Ezekiel 18:3, 30-32; Luke 19:10; John 3:16-20; Romans 3:9-25; 6:20-23.

CONCLUSIONGod’s greatest hunger is for the souls of all human beings, who will worship Him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:14-24). Whenever God sees souls that are perishing, His heart goes out to them, and He sends those who have been grounded in His word to go out and tell them about their present state, the way out of their quagmire, and what their future state will be if they yield to Him (Jeremiah 29:11; Revelation 3:20-21)

Are you perhaps one of those God’s heart is reaching out to? So, let us take a moment here to tell you what you must do to be saved. Even if you are presently attending a church, and yet have not taken a decision to surrender your life to Jesus Christ, you will still not be a beneficiary of the grace of God! You have to first acknowledge that you are a sinner, who needs a saviour; then believe in your heart that that saviour is Jesus Christ, the Son of God; and finally, confess with your mouth, all of these things: That you are a sinner who has been living a sinful life; that you need a saviour to save you from the stranglehold and influence of sin; and that you now know and believe that Jesus Christ, who came in the flesh to pay for the sins of all mankind by dying on the cross at Calvary, is that Saviour!). Romans 10:9-10. When you make this declaration before many witnesses (Matthew 10:32-33), you will begin to notice changes in your life: the things you once desired which are at variance with God’s desire will no longer appeal to you. Many other positive changes will be taking place in your life, and those who had known you before now, will also testify that there is a change in your life! It is also important that you keep reading the bible and start attending a Bible-teaching church, where you should be able to commence a Foundation or New Believer’s Class, and you will be good to go!

To the rest of us who are saved, glory be to God! But are you satisfying the hunger of Jesus?

JESUS HOUSE SAN DIEGO, USA

TheHunger

of JesusBY PASTOR RAYMOND ELI

The next morning as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus felt hungry. (Mark 11:12)

Baptism by Pastor Ray

Pastor Ray and the baptism candidates

JUNIOR’S CORNER

POEMBy Stephanie, JH InvernessWhat can I give Him?Poor as I am?If I were a shepherd,I would bring Him a lambIf I were a wise man,I would do my part yetWhat can I give Him I can give Him my heart.

CHILDREN’S DAY CELEBRATIONBY INIOLUWA

We had our Children’s Day on 25th May, 2008 and it was very nice. On that day, the adult Church service was run by us: Uyi and Sean were the ushers, Jide was the Pastor, Oghosa took the prayers, Seun took the announcements, and we were in the choir.

We sang “ Read Your Bible, Pray everyday”. Our drama was about Jesus telling His disciples to allow the children to come to Him. Everybody took part from all the classes: The Toddlers (0 –3 years), Junior Class (3-6 years) and the Senior Class (6 – 12 years). We had a big lunch after Church.

My favourite person Uyi Who’s your favourite person in the Bible?

GODWhy do you chose Him as your favourite?

“Because He helps me, and because He is

very special”

My favourite Bible story Inioluwa

What’s your favourite Bible story?

The story about when Jesus died on the cross.

Why?Because Jesus died to save me.

Why I love the going to ChurchBy Debbie, JH Inverness

I love going to Church because we always

hear stories. My best stories are the Jesus

stories. We always have a competition

to see who can remember up to seven

stories. I always win and I can remember

up to 11 stories. My best story is about

when Jesus was born and the wise men

came and gave Him money. I also like

stories about Jesus’ 12 disciples, How Jesus

died on the cross, Adam and Eve and the

girl that put 2 pennies in Church box.

I like acting in the plays. We acted a play

with father, mother and children. I acted

as the mother while Adam (another junior)

acted as the father. People wanted to

call me Eve, but I told them my name is

Debbie.

I also like the drawing class. Our drawing

book is divided into two and we use one

part for writing and one part for drawing

Bible stories. Our teacher’s name is

Cassie.

Obeying the Commandments of GodBy DusimiWe learnt about many commandments of God in our Bible Study. The commandment “Thou shall not steal” means I should not take anything without asking mummy, auntie or any older person.

Our memory verse was Psalm 78:5-6. This verse means that my mummy will teach me all the commandments of God and I will teach my little brothers and sisters, and when I grow up I will teach my own children.

Best of all, I leant that Jesus loves me and I should love Him too and my family and everybody.

Kiddie Interviews

Children and teachers

Children’s day drama

Children’s day preacherChildren’s day recitation

Children’s day recitation

The Choir

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where we want churches planted and all the parishes within an Area evangelize within that location. This is usually a day before and after Xmas/Easter and it is very enjoyable.

Sir, what would you attribute the growth of Jesus House to, becoming the largest parish of the RCCG worldwide and what role has your involvement in missionary activities played.

Honestly it’s just God’s grace because I see churches that probably do more than we do. I also think that we have committed ministers and workers who are willing to move to anywhere at any time you ask them to. We also have a lot of programs to enrich the people. Sir, How did your province succeed in pioneering a Christian ministry in Libya, a strongly muslim country.

Well, the General Overseer looked at the RCCG directory and observed that we did not have a mission in Libya, so we took up the mandate. By God’s grace, we were fortunate to meet a brother who used to work in the Petroleum Industry in Libya and speaks Arabic quite well. He returned there and made contact with friends to start up and currently, attendance is between 90-100 persons (see Note below). The church went through some challenges. However, of recent, the Lord has given them favour. The government has given them a piece of land where they can build a place of worship and the church has been registered. The authorities are waiting for us to pay some money; It’s really a big sum, but we are raising it. So that’s the favour God has given us and this has been the story.

Editor’s Note: The church in Libya has since this interview obtained a 400 seater auditorium and attendance is now over 340 persons.

What would be your assessment of Jesus House Aberdeen and the progress thus far? What is your long term plan for Jesus House Europe?

So far I think it’s good. In 3 years we’ve been able to plant 3 churches. You are in Inverness, Glasgow, Budapest and Watford. Around here it’s not easy because I know of people who have been here for 8 years with one church. I think God has been faithful in that regards. As our father in the Lord would say, there is still room for development. We haven’t started yet because we are going places.

What would be your advice to Ministers and Pastors based on your experience?

Leadership is a lonely place. Every one comes to you and you have no one to encourage you. You must learn to encourage yourself not in yourself but in the Lord. You know the story of David. When he had gone to war and came back he found out that they had plundered all he had. Instead of his men helping him, they even took stones to stone him. Obedience to God’s leading is fundamental. When Abraham obeyed, God said to him “walk before Me and be blameless”. So just obey and every other thing will fall in place.

Sir, have you seen a copy of our magazine and what can you say about it?

It’s a beautiful piece. When I first saw it, I said to some people that this is what it should be. If you want to do something, do it well. The articles I read blessed me. I think you can still improve on it and make it even better.

Pastor Kola Bolanta is the Provincial Pastor, RCCG Rivers Province 3 (HQ @ Jesus House Port Harcourt, Nigeria) overseeing over 300 churches including the Jesus House PHC International parishes.

The Jesus House Parishes in the UK were recently privileged to receive their overseeing Provincial Pastor of Rivers Province 3, Pastor Kola Bolanta. His visit was a great blessing as he came to see how the churches under his oversight are doing; to encourage and stir up the faith of the brethren just like Paul did, and also for the Inaugural service of the City of God Church, Aberdeen. The publication team was able to catch up with him during his visit and he shared some titbits on his personal life and the activities of the Province and RCCG. He also had some encouraging words and advice for the churches in Europe.

Sir, we would like to know you personally

Well, my name is Kola Bolanta. I’m a Provincial Pastor by the special grace of God of Rivers Province 3 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God with head quarters in Jesus House Port Harcourt, Nigeria. I oversee about 300 churches in Nigeria and Overseas. Part of the reason why I am here is to see what is happening in this part of the world.

How did you encounter The Redeemed Christian Church of God?

I changed jobs in Nigeria from the city of Jos to Lagos and I was trying to find a Bible-believing Church to attend. My wife and I were particularly looking for a church where the Sunday School and Bible Study is rich. One day someone invited myself and my wife to their church for a program. She mistakenly went to the “wrong” church which happened to be parish of the RCCG. She really enjoyed the service and we decided to start worshipping there. One thing led to the other, I became a minister, and I found myself in ministry. Pastoring three hundred churches must be very hectic! How do you cope and maintain a balance on your Christian life, your role as Provincial Pastor and other needs?

It’s quite challenging. If one is not careful you could lose your rela-tionship with God. You know you may just want to concentrate on administration, and that’s not actually what one’s calling is. When I

was a parish pastor of a single church, was actually one of the best times I had, because I was able to minister directly to people and know people one on one. But now, overseeing Jesus House Port Harcourt alone is enough responsibility. Here is a church where we run four services on a Sunday and we have an overall attendance on Sundays of over 3,000 persons. I also have over three hundred pastors to deal with, who look up to me to solve their problems. In RCCG, we also have Area pastors and Zonal pastors. We also have churches in the rural areas which are almost unreachable but we must make sure we satisfy everyone. I have to travel a lot. Now that I’m out of Port Harcourt, a lot of work is piling up for me. Well, we cope by the grace of God and we delegate responsibilities. I have an able Assistant Provincial Pastor and able Area pastors.

Sir we have heard of many programs carried out in the Redeemed Christian Church of God especially the Go-A-Fishing. Could you tell us how this Go-A-Fishing has helped in the expansion of your province?

A lot of people wonder how the RCCG is able to reproduce itself. People wonder what the secret is, and honestly one of the reasons is Let’s Go-A-Fishing program. This was actually introduced by our Father in the Lord (General Overseer of RCCG). During the Christmas and Easter seasons, rather than party, we use that opportunity to obey the great commission (Matt 28:19), asking us to go into the world and make disciples of all nations. During this period, we choose locations

INTERVIEW WITH PROVINCIAL PASTOR

KOLA BOLANTA DURING VISIT TO THE UKBY SOLOMON AKERE AND DOLAPO TADE

Pastor Kola Bolanta being interviewed

Pastor Kola reading a copy of the CITY OF GOD magazine

Celebration service at Jesus House Port Harcourt

Pastor Kola Bolanta during the celebration service at Jesus House Aberdeen

Church Service at Libya parish

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VolunteeringA SERVICE TO GOD BY NGOZI VINCENT-ELOAGU

Being a volunteer has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my stay in Aberdeen. I can quite firmly say that it was the Lord who led me into volunteering,

initially with the Volunteer Service Aberdeen (VSA). I can still recall the first inkling I had of the volunteer service and the excitement I felt in joining up. Making the decision to be a volunteer opened my eyes to some facts I think God wanted me to know: that I should, as a child of God be a part of the community where He had brought me to, if I am to make an impact there. Secondly, that humanitarian service is fulfilling and a service to God.

When I arrived in the city of Aberdeen, like most strangers in a new community, I was constantly plagued with feelings of loneliness, wondering what this new place held for me, how to interact with the people and make friends and many other uncertainties played through my mind everyday. Needless to say, volunteering opened the doors for me, and allayed my initial fears. It enabled me to learn so much about Scotland and its people.

In todays fast- paced world where the end result and the ultimate goal of every man seems to be wealth and affluence, it is incomprehensible for one to consider the idea of being a volunteer, or volunteering in the community where one lives. Even as Christians, we often have a confused look when we are told about volunteering. People often ask: How can I work without getting paid? What about my bills? What is the wisdom in it or the business sense of it? The wisdom in it is simply that it is what the Lord would love, it is absolutely pleasing in the eyes of the Lord, the Bible says that to some have been given the ministry of helping others (1 Cor. 12:28)

A lot of women who cannot find the time for full time work because of children and family commitments can find fulfilment in some hours of volunteer work weekly, especially with children. Other opportunities exist with the elderly and people with special needs. These groups are so vulnerable and require love, care and attention. Join up as a volunteer with the relevant agencies or your local church. Special training and certification is required for working with children and some groups, but the key requirement from the Lord is a heart of compassion.

Delivered from Petrol Tanker FireIn Lagos, Nigeria, a petrol tanker skidded off a major road and crashed into the walls of my family house and exploded. The incredible thing about this occurrence was that almost all the houses on the street were razed by the fire, due to the fuel that seeped out of the tanker, but our house stood untouched, to the glory of God. My 95 year old grandmother was asleep in our house and awoke at the sound of the explosion. She was carried over the fence, no life was lost on the street, the trees in the compound were burnt, the cars went untouched and the property was preserved by the hand of God. By Segun Akinkugbe

Answer to PrayerIn the month of March, I rang my mother in Nigeria, and she said she has a request which only God can answer. However, during one of the monthly Holy Ghost services, the General Overseer (Pastor Adeboye) gave a Word of Knowledge that the Lord is about to answer the prayer request of someone’s mother, and I clamed it. The next week, my mother told me the Lord had granted her requests which had to with rental of her property and sale of another at enormous profit. She gave a property as a gift to the church and she thanked God for all His blessings on her family. By Ademola

Successful AdmissionDuring the RCCG annual fast in February, I prayed about my brother’s admission for a masters degree in the UK after previous unsuccessful attempts. The Lord answered and he obtained his desired course and afterwards a full scholarship award which comes with a living allowance. My other brother had a head-on collision with a bus and to the glory of God nobody died. By Iyalla

Divine AssistanceI wish to thank God for helping me with my academics and work. Just after I completed my post-graduate diploma, specifically in May, 2007, the Scottish government granted PG diploma holders eligibility to work for three years. This enabled me to work and also to complete a full Masters in Business studies which I have utilised to establish my own business. By Solomon

Successful EmploymentI have been trusting God for a permanent job and have prayed about it. Recently, God created a permanent position in the place where I work as a temporary staff. Someone resigned and the job was given to me. I give God thanks.Testimony from a Jesus House parish

Divine Healing and RestorationA sister used to know the Lord some years back but derailed. She got into a relationship for a number of years and was about to get married and get a mortgage on a home when the relationship collapsed and I almost lost my mind. I thank God we met her during street evangelism and she has re-discovered God and has received healing and been restored .Testimony from a Jesus House parish

Congratulations to Kachi & Zubi, Abudu & Faith, Amaechi & Ifeoma, Tosin & Bukola, Ib & Julius. Wishing you all a happy marriage with joy and blessings.

TESTIMONY CORNER

SOCIALS

Abudu and Faith Kachi and Zubi

Dry Bones shall rise againConsidering the tremendous growth and prosperity of Torry and the early prosperity of the Church universal in Torry and her decline, even as Torry was growing and enlarging, one wonders why the Torry Church did not prosper as the town prospered physically. Can the glory of the early Torry Church return? Will the Lord’s work and Church prosper and flourish in Torry once more? This dilemma is similar to that which confronted Ezekiel:

“The hand of the Lord was upon me, and He brought me in the middle of a valley: it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones that were very dry. He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”

I said, “O Sovereign LORD, You alone know.” Then He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them; Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come back to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.’”

So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them. Then He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’” So I prophesised as He commanded me, and breath entered into them; they came to life and stood on their feet – a vast army. Then

He said to me: Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.’ Therefore prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: O My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them … I will put My Spirit in you and you will live … you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD” (Ezekiel 37.1-14 )

The situation was hopeless, the future was not only bleak, in fact there was no future! Perhaps if there was still flesh on the bones, one could have hoped that life could somehow come back. At least, Ezekiel had heard of Elisha raising the son of the Shunamite woman and therefore could have speculated that life could return if the valley was full of dead bodies. But Ezekiel was faced with a valley of dry bones, no sinews, no flesh, nothing! So when the Lord asked him if the dry bones could live, it was beyond his imagination how dry bones could live. Ezekiel did know one thing, and that was that he was before the Sovereign LORD, the One besides whom there is no other, the all-knowing, all-powerful God. The Lord with whom there is no impossibility. So very smartly Ezekiel deferred to the LORD and acknowledged that only the LORD could know whether and how life could return to dry bones. Then started the wondrous chain of miracles that brought life to a valley of dry bones, and each miracle came about even as Ezekiel prophesised as the LORD directed him to. It was the LORD’s pleasure to bring life back to the valley, to dry bones, to a valley full of dry bones!

In a similar fashion, we believe and prophesy that the glory of the LORD will return to Torry. We prophesy to Torry: that the life of God will live in you again; the gospel will prosper in you once again; the church of the LORD will prosper in you once again.

Continued from page 3

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...BECAUSE IT IS JESUS HOUSEBY JIMMY AKANDE

My write up in the last edition reflected the need for the church to move out of Balnagnask community centre in Torry because the centre could not accomodate us any longer. The church has done more than that: she has moved forward and still retained the Torry parish. The City of God has been reclaimed, recaptured, re-acquired, repaired, returned, resurrected and redeemed.

Let me liken this to the feeding of the five thousand with five loaves and two fishes as recorded in John 6:1-13 (NIV). This is one of the miracles Jesus Christ performed to solve a problem;

In studying this story in the book of John, I discovered the following:

1. Barley loaf was food that only the poor people ate, and was not as large as we would imagine. For the boy to have five loaves as his lunch, they must have been very small.2. As for the fish, the passage in verse 9 says “…they were small”. If you ask me, I would say maybe the size of sardines and with this, Jesus was able to perform His miracle.3. The platform for the miracle was in the giving. The boy gave his little and Jesus Christ performed His miracle- Multiplication.

Verse 13 reads ‘so they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten’. Our father in the Lord, Pastor E.A. Adeboye mentioned that these twelve baskets were carried to the house of the boy. These represented the harvest of

the boy (the sower). The members, friends and well wishers of Jesus House Aberdeen, gave their little and our Lord used this AGAIN to perform a miracle - the City of God Building.

I liken these contributions by our members, friends and well-wishers to that of the boy, and hereby claim for every sower, the miracle of twelve months. A new door for each month in this new year, 2008, the year of the Next Level-Amen.

Finally, there is one thing to note, ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house’ Haggai 2:9 (NIV). Why? Because, it is JESUS House.

To God be all the glory…Amen.

Obinna (2R) with Scotland’s First Minister, Alex Salmand (3R) and John Gallagher, Shell VP (6R)

STANDING BEFORE KINGS‘Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before

mean men’ Proverbs 22:29This proverb is being fulfilled in Jesus House as God granted favour to very diligent members of Jesus House.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE RECEPTION FOR FEMI,

JH ABERDEEN MINISTEROne morning, Femi Akarakiri received a call inviting him for a reception by the Duke of Edinburgh (the Queen’s husband) in recognition of his social work among the youth. This has to be crank call or a prank, he mused and was only convinced when the royal invitation letter arrived.

Though a very busy employee in a multinational oil company, Femi has created time to fulfil his calling as a minister in Jesus House Aberdeen and social work among youth such as giving career pep-talks in schools. He was also the Nehemiah Project Coordinator whose zeal and faith sustained the drive to claim the Holburn Parish for Jesus House Aberdeen and for God.

KACHI BAGS BEST M.SC STUDENT’S AWARD

The Lord, who said He will not owe any man, or woman crowned Onyedikachi’s efforts with a distinction in her M.Sc. course at the University of Aberdeen and whats more, as one the best three graduating M.Sc. students!!! The picture on the right shows her receiving her award from Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmand. A diligent worker at Jesus House Aberdeen, for over 21 months Kachi made the long journey from Aberdeen to Inverness every Sunday or Saturday as part of the 5-man mission team to nurture the young Jesus House Inverness parish to its establishment.

JH MUSIC DIRECTOR IS

FINALIST FOR UK OIL & GAS

AWARDObinna Njoku, an engineer in the oil and gas industry and the Music Director at Jesus House Aberdeen was one of three finalists nominated for the UK Oil & Gas Award of “ Young Engineer of the Year”. The high profile final had Scotland’s First Minister, Alex Salmond and other bigwigs in attendance.

Femi (R) with the Duke of Edinburgh

Onyedikachi receiving Best Student Award from the First Minister

Best three M.Sc StudentsGroup with lecturer

JESUS HOUSE ROUEN WINNING THE BATTLE OF NORMANDYBY PASTOR DAPO OLOWODARAN

Normandy in France is popular as the landing point for Allied forces in the Second World War. Centuries earlier, a nephew of the English King by name William The Conqueror who ruled Normandy invaded England to claim the English throne.

In like fashion, Jesus House Rouen was established by Pastor Mike Dada (now Pastor, CoG Watford) three years back and has been winning the spiritual battle for the souls in Normandy region and France. Indeed the church has blossomed and matured.

Testimonies abound of God’s goodness: A new fully equipped Church auditorium and office was dedicated by the RCCG Regional Coordinator in Europe Mainland. Others include the

spiritual growth of members, new church bus, nine babies so far in 2008, and several other testimonies. Every Tuesday, the Church holds its flagship program “THE SOLUTION HOUR” at the Church venue, No. 108 T, Chemin du Moullin, Saint Aubin Epinay, Rouen.

Provincial Pastor Kola Bolanta from Port Harcourt and Pastor Mark Igiehon from Aberdeen visited recently to encourage the brethren.

Some of the church members

Church servicePastor Dapo with Elder Felix Ohiwere

�� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008 ��

THE REDEEMED CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF GOD (RCCG)

Pentecostal Bible believing ChurchOver 8000 parishes in 80 nationsFounder: Pa. Josiah Akindayomi in a vision from GodGeneral Overseer: Pastor Enoch Adeboye (Ph.D)

RCCG MANDATE

• Make sure you will go to heaven• Take as many people as possible with you

to heaven• Live a life of holiness• Preaching throughout the world• Planting churches

JESUS HOUSE MISSION

• To make heaven & take as many people along with us

• To live holy, joyful, purposeful, productive, rich, and preaching lives

• Scotland and the nations for the LORD

RCCG JESUS HOUSE ABERDEEN

Charity registered in Scotland - Charity Number SC037926

• Jesus House (JH) is a church based inAberdeen and part of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG)

• In obedience to the biblical commission,JH commenced services Sunday 6th June 2004 with one family and one other.

• We work closely with community associations as well as other churches and are closely associated with the Salvation Army and Torry St. Fitticks Parish (Church of Scotland)

JESUS HOUSE PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA

• RCCG Jesus House Port Harcourt is ourparent parish

• JH Aberdeen is a plant of Jesus HousePort Harcourt in Nigeria, as are other plants/parishes across the World including older parishes in Nigeria, the Netherlands, Australia, France, Belgium and newer missions in the US, Libya, Angola and Equatorial Guines

• In 2005/2006,RCCG Jesus House Port Harcourt was the largest parish in the RCCG Worldwide with an attendance over 3,000 persons on Sundays

RCCG IN THE UK

Parent Charity in UK: The Redeemed Christian Church of God (Charity Number 1084767)

Address: Redemption Hose, 53 Theobald Street, Borehanwood, Hertforshire WD6 4RTwww.rccgeu.org

• RCCG started in the UK in 1988, first as a home fellowship and to the glory of the LORD, as of today, there over 300 parishes spread across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland

• RCCG has a global organisation. In the UK, the organisation has a 3-man executive council.

• For ease of working, churches or parishes across the UK, work and cooperate as zones and areas. Across Scotland, there are over 10 parishes as of today

• In RCCG, there is no differentiation between clergy and laity as all ministers, volunteers and members work coopera-tively with the Lord in the Lord’s vineyard

SOME RCCG WEBSITES

•www.rccg.org•www.rccgeu.org•www.jesushouseaberdeen.org•www.jesushousephc.org•www.rccgvictoryhouse.org.uk•www.jesushousedc.org•www.fountainoflove.org.uk

Pastor E. A. Adeboye

GENERAL INFORMATION ON RCCG

RCCG’s HOLY GHOSTCONGRESS ARENA

IS WORLD’S LARGEST AUDITORIUM

The World’s largest auditorium is reputedly the RCCG’s new Holy Ghost Congress Arena within the Redemption City in Lagos, Nigeria. The auditorium which seats over 1 million people is the venue for the annual Holy Ghost Congress which holds in December and is attended by millions from all over the world.

Auditorium during construction

�� THE CITYof GOD SUMMER 2008

Jesus House Aberdeen @ the City of Godwww.jesushouseaberdeen.orgCity of God Centre20 Holburn Street Aberdeen AB10 6BT

Sundays Services also @ Torry Balnagask Community CentreBalnagask Road (behind Halfords)

Tel/Fax: +44 (0)1224 588884 Mobile: +44 (0) 7525 845 560 . Email: info@jesushouseaberdeen.org

CHURCH SERVICESServices at the City of God and Jesus House Aberdeen feature uplifting praise and worship music and relevant life-transforming Biblical messages and teachings. Children are special members and an integral part of God’s house and are specially catered for in every service.

VISITORSWe are especially excited to have and welcome visitors and new members in all our services.

SUNDAY SERVICESOur Sunday services are praiseful jubilant colourful family celebra-tions before the Lord with joy unspeakable as we together examine the greatest and life-transforming message of the Gospel. Our Jesus Juniors Church is available for children between the ages of 2 and 12 during the various services.

@ Jesus House Torry9.30am: Fresh Fire

@ The City of God Holburn10.00am: Intercessory Service 10.30am: Celebration Service6.00pm: Communion Service (1st Sundays only)

The first Sunday of each month is our Thanksgiving service. This is an opportunity for the church as a family to thank the Lord who daily loads us with His blessings and benefits. MONDAY’S THE HOUR OF PRAYER - @ 6.30PMAt the Hour of Prayer, members of the Prayer & Intercession Squad and members of the church gather together every Monday, for fervent and effectual prayers to the Most High Who in His infinite goodness daily answers us with awesome testimonies, breakthroughs, miracles, signs and wonders. We pray for the church, for individuals, families, the city, the nation, those in government, prayer requests and various issues. All are welcome to join the meetings.Mondays @ 6.30pm

TUESDAY’S DIGGING DEEP SERVICEThe mid week service is for all and another opportunity to worship the Lord with focus on practical, exciting, interactive and deep Bible teaching. Questions are taken. Tuesdays @ 6.30pm

THURSDAY’S HOUSE FELLOWSHIPS ACROSS THE CITYIn various homes across the city of Aberdeen, groups meet together for about one hour to worship the Lord, share testimonies and prayer points and examine practical Biblical issues for personal growth and maturity. House Fellowships are also focused on positively impacting their immediate neighbourhood. Thursdays @ 7.00pm

GOOD LIFE NIGHTS @ TIGERTIGER RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUBOn a number of Wednesdays @7.00pm, special informal and interactive discussions hold over free drinks and refreshments at the TigerTiger Restaurant and Nightclub on Shiprow, Aberdeen. We examine life’s questions and issues whether easy or difficult. These meetings have transformed lives, caused many to grow strongly in the faith and together discover answers to life’s difficult questions. Non-Christians, Christians and enquirers are especially welcome. COMBINED MONTHLY NIGHT VIGIL @ RCCG FOUNTAIN OF LOVE – PALMERSTON ROADThe Redeemed Christian Church of God and a number of other Churches meet together for an all-night prayer service on the last Friday of every month. It’s a time to spend unlimited time in the presence of God and seek His face. Last Friday of every month @ 11.00pm

PENIEL 2008Our annual week of solid Word conferences, exciting gospel music concerts, healings and miracles, revival services and celebrations with awesome testimonies.

QUARTERLY COUPLES BREAKFAST Couples meet together in an interactive session over Breakfast @ the Hilton Treetops Hotel and discuss with liberty and frankness, the excitement, challenges, highs and lows of marriage and together, we discover the secrets to happy and successful homes and marriages. Children have their own breakfast tables as well.

QUARTERLY LOVE ASSEMBLYAre you intending to marry or already married and interested in enriching lives and relationships? We hold an interactive session quarterly. Details can be obtained from the church office and website

OTHER MINISTRIES OR COLLABORATION WITH OTHER CHURCHES OR ORGANIZATIONS

• Zion Youths • Kingdom Theatre - drama dance choreography• City of God Children Choir• Faith Business Academy – Faith in business, Business with faith! • JJ House – our outreach to youths of the City and nation• The Marry Slessor Library and Christian Resource Centre• The Aberdeen Gospel Mass Choir• LAZARUS - back to life!• City of God Choir• Jah Gosh’pel Reggae Gospel Band• Parchment - Our media and bookstore!

About Us