Tribute to The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu, on its 120th Anniversary -

By Prince Oluwaseyi Adelabu

Today, December 11, 2024, marks a monumental occasion as The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu, celebrates 120 years of God’s unwavering faithfulness and grace. It is with immense joy and gratitude that I pen this tribute as a former Cathedral Secretary (2017 to 2023).

Serving in this role for over 6 consecutive years remains one of the greatest privileges of my life, allowing me to contribute to the legacy of this iconic institution of faith.

The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu, is not just a building—it is a spiritual home, a sanctuary of worship, and a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families over the past 120 years.

As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we honour the sacrifices, prayers, and service of those who came before us, those who serve today, and those who will continue this mission in the years ahead.

This milestone resonates deeply with me personally, as my family has been intricately woven into the fabric of the Cathedral’s history:

Evang. Chief Emmanuel O. Adelabu: My father, whose service as Assistant Parish Secretary, longest-serving Building Committee Secretary, longest serving Ikorodu Archdeaconry Secretary, Member of the Conference of The African Church among others exemplifies dedication and leadership.

Olori R. A. Adelabu: My mother, whose steadfast service as member of the Sidemen and Lady Helper (usher) for many years and now a Patroness of the Cathedral Ushers, as well as her contributions as a former Diocesan Treasurer of the Women’s League and now Diocesan Patroness of the League, and a recipient of the Cathedral Mother-in-Israel sward reflects a life of selfless service and dedication.

Bro. Olumide A. Adelabu: My eldest brother, who has served and or still serving as Senior Officer of the African Church Lads & Lasses Brigade, Cathedral Organist/Choirmaster, Vestry Secretary, Publicity Secretary, Church Council Secretary, ACYA Chairman and in various administrative capacities, has been a pillar of support to the Cathedral.

Olukunle A. Adelabu: My immediate elder brother served as the Choir Cross Bearer, Assistant and Acting Secretary of the ACYA, Officer of the Lads and Lasses Brigade, ACYA representative at the Church Council, Secretary of the School Management Committee, Screening Committee Secretary for the emergence of Prince Adebayo Ogunleye as Vice Lay President of the then Lagos Diocese and later Lagos West Missionary Diocese, Secretary, Publicity Committee of Lagos West Missionary Diocese, and in the last 15 years has been a media consultant to the Church using his media house to propagate the Church. A service of commitment and dedication.

My humble self as a former Choir Liberian, Choir Finance Secretary, Choir Asst Secretary, Choir Secretary, ACYA Secretary both in the Church and Diocese, the last Vice President of ACYA, Lagos West Missionary Diocese and the first Diocesan Chairman of ACYA at the LWMD, Harvest Committee Finance Secretary, the immediate past Cathedral Secretary, Member of the Cathedral Council and current Publicity Secretary of The African Church, Lagos West Diocese.

Sis. Kehinde A. Adelabu: My immediate younger sister, whose numerous roles, including Vestry Secretary, Choir Secretary, Choir Admin Sec, Secretary – School Management Committee, Harvest Committee Secretary, and Ikorodu-Epe Divisional Chairman of the Lads and Lasses Brigade, highlight her commitment to nurturing others in faith and service.

Mrs. Bukola Adelabu (nee Williams) : My eldest brother’s wife was a prominent member of the Church Choir, one time officer of the ACYA, high ranking Officer of the Lass and Lasses Brigade, an Evangelist in the Church and a member of the Cathedral Council.

Mrs. Titilayo A. Adelabu: My wife, whose voice as one of the lead singers of the Cathedral Choir for apmost 3 decades, has enriched worship experiences and brought the congregation closer to God.

Oluwadamilare Adelabu: My son, representing the future, as an active member of the Media Team, contributing to the church’s modern outreach efforts.

As we celebrate 120 years, we reflect on the journey of our Cathedral—a journey marked by resilience, growth, and unyielding faith in God. Let this anniversary remind us of our collective responsibility to preserve and build upon this legacy of faith and service.

May the coming years bring even greater blessings, and may The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu, continue to shine as a light in the community and beyond.

To God be the glory for 120 years of grace and impact.