Anchor Leadership Academy (ALA) under the auspicious of Anchor International Outreach Ministry in July organized a life-transforming capacity-building leadership conference for 264 church leaders in Ogun State.
The event took place at St. John Anglican Church, Igbein Abeokuta on Thursday, July 18, 2024.
It marked a significant milestone in the ministry’s mission. The Africa Study Bible and other resources that were shared with the church leaders were said to have cost about $118,800
One of the oldest churches
President of Anchor International Outreach Ministry, Dr. Bolarinwa Michael Omotosho said St. John’s Anglican Church, Igbein Abeoguka is one of the oldest churches in Nigeria because it was founded in 1847. Its first vicar was Samuel Ajayi Crowther and the church is still marching stronger today under the leadership of Ven. (Col. Rtd) Moses Abolanle.
The event featured insightful teachings and interactive sessions led by seasoned ministry leaders. They included Dr. Omotosho, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ogun State, Rt Revd. Dr. Adekunle, President of Ogun State Baptist Conference, Rev. Dr. Oyewole Oyeniyi, and Dr. Mrs. Folawiyo Priscilla Omotosho, Member Board of Trustees Anchor International Outreach Ministry.
Dr. Omotosho, President Ogun State Baptist Conference, Dr Adekunle and Dr Mrs Priscilla Omotosho with a copy of Africa Study Bible
Help for churches
Topics covered included: “Raising Next-Generation Leaders, The Quality that Separates Leaders from Followers, Leading Many- Equipping Future Leaders, Leading through an Effective Youth Ministry, and Ministers, Marriage & Ministry”
Church leaders were equipped with essential skills and knowledge, that would make them effective leaders.
Omotoso said the initiative would have a ripple effect. It would impact countless lives, and foster a new era of spiritual growth and development.
In addition to the training each participant received, a kitbag, certificate, lunch, two hardcopy books, 25 e-books for ministry enrichment, and a free copy of the Africa Study Bible courtesy of Oasis Publishing Ltd, USA.
Omotoso said further “that empowering church leaders is crucial for the advancement of the kingdom of God. We are committed to providing free resources and helping Church Leaders, Pastors, Missionaries, Evangelist and Teachers fulfill their calling, particularly those that are doing ministry in the village setting”
What participants think
Participants in the one-day training expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow.
Rev Joshua A. Ayansiji Ph.D, Calvary Baptist Church Abeokuta. Ogun State said he was privileged to attend the seminar. “The teachings transformed my perspective and approach to leadership and ministry. The teachings were profound and practical, and I was able to immediately apply them to my life and ministry.
“The gift of the Africa Study Bible made the training unique. it was also refreshing to see illustrations and listen to messages that resonate with my culture. The study notes and articles will help us to understand the Bible more deeply and make connections to my own experiences and challenges.
While thanking Anchors In’l for the training opportunity, he said, “The Africa Study Bible has become a trusted companion in my leadership journey.”
For Ven. Dr. Peter A. Ayoade of the Holy Trinity Church, Gbagura, Abeokuta the one-day event was an eye-opener. “We thank God for the impartation received at the training. May your ministries be blessed. We appreciate your supportive partner – OASIS Publishing International, USA for their role in reaching the world through the WORD. May the grace of God upon you never diminish. Continue to flourish in the Lord.
“I thank God for the truth and boldness to speak God’s mind to people, this validates my standing and encourages me to move forward no matter the storm.”
In his words, Rev. Akinremi Oluyemisi Ebenezer-Benedict of ABLE GOD CHAPEL expressed the wish that Achor would continue to impact lives. He expressed great pleasure for being a beneficiary of the study Bible.
“The Bible is my companion now. I have read some comments contributed by various gurus. I am so delighted to have this Study bearing Africa, written by various lettered Africans who are children of God. I am an African Child of God.”
New appointment
At the end of the training, Dr. Omotosho announced the appointment of Rev. Dr. Ayansola Ayansiji and Pastor Akinbode John Oriyomi as the State Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator for Ogun State.
He said they would work as a team in coordinating the ministry’s activities, maintaining relationships with local churches, and providing leadership for more ministry teams in Ogun State.
“The appointments are a strategic move to enhance our ministry’s impact and smooth operations in Ogun State. We believe this will help us better serve the church in Ogun State as we hope it will help us build strong relations with all Christian bodies in Ogun State and fulfill our mandate”