At this year’s weekend of revival meetings in Melbourne, Australia, the congregation had extra reason to rejoice: the dedication of the Melbourne church.

The meetings were held October 9-11 and led by Director of Australia Work, Sam Ajayi, who was accompanied by his wife, Shade. The dedication took place on October 10, conducted by Superintendent General Sola Adesope, who was present with his wife, Tolu, and their son, Josiah.

To mark the importance of the occasion, representatives attended for the first time from our groups in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, joining those from Sydney. Also in attendance was Uche Okufor of Calgary, Canada, who first led the Melbourne group. In addition, Mark Staller, retired pastor from Tehachapi, California, was present with his 92-year-old father.

The introductory service on Friday evening began with a soulful orchestration and an inspiring choir song followed by congregational singing. Then Brother Uche led the opening prayer, thanking God for the miraculous way in which the Melbourne group was formed and the new building acquired. During the testimony service, Brother Mark thanked the Lord for his Christian upbringing and how the Gospel has shaped the lives of him and his family. 

Before the message, Olalekan Olagookun of Melbourne sang “Is Your Heart Right with God?” Then Brother Sola took his text from Luke 19, the account of Zachaeus. He entreated the congregation to prioritize seeking God over worldly and insignificant matters. The congregation was also advised not to put off serving God, and there was a good response at the altar call.

The dedication service began outside with a woodwind prelude and the ribbon cutting. Then the congregation proceeded into the building while singing. Inside, the children provided a short skit, relaying the history of the work in Australia, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. Orchestra and choir songs followed, including “Walk About Zion.” After congregational singing, Emmanuel Tshuma of Sydney led in prayer, praising God for His provisions. During the announcements, video greetings and well wishes were shared from several, including former Superintendent Generals Dwight Baltzell and Darrel Lee.

A history of the Australia work was presented by Ernest Akerejola, the resident leader, and Frank Igweonu, the Melbourne group leader, with the theme “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12). Then Brother Uche testified of God’s goodness since the humble beginning of the work in Melbourne. He said it didn’t seem possible in his lifetime to purchase a church building in one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, the Lord exceeded all expectations. Brother Sam also expressed his gratitude and then the choir, featuring a soloist, sang “Bless this House.” Brother Sola gave the dedication message from 2 Chronicles 5:13-14. He told the congregation that more important than having a dedicated church is having dedicated hearts. At the close, there was such earnest prayer that the photo session to follow was cancelled.

The Sunday services provided an excellent culmination to the weekend revival. The morning service began with a choir and orchestra prelude. During the announcements, tokens of appreciation were distributed to the leaders of each branch and their spouses. Then, the choir sang “Come, Holy Spirit” and the Scripture reading was given. Before the message, Sister Tolu sang “Sweet Holy Spirit.” The Brother Sola took his text from 2 Timothy 3:14. He urged the congregation to continue in God’s service, upholding the principles of the Gospel, which remain the same regardless of life’s challenges. The service concluded with a fervent time of prayer, and the Lord blessed abundantly.

In the evening, a water baptismal service was held. The candidates were exhorted from Matthew 28:17-20 on the blessing that follows obedience to God’s instructions. It was a time of great and sweet fellowship.

The Melbourne weekend of revival was a wonderful time of spiritual refreshment and blessing, flowing from God’s abundant goodness and presence. Next year, should the Lord tarry, the meetings are scheduled for October 8-10.