What began four decades ago as a vision inspired by faith has blossomed into a thriving beacon of worship, holiness and evangelism in the United Kingdom, as Celestial Church of Christ, Manchester Parish 1, UK District Headquarters, marked its 40th Anniversary Harvest Thanksgiving Service, themed “Harvest of Greatness,” on Sunday, 2nd August 2026. The historic celebration drew an impressive gathering of ministers, members, church leaders, dignitaries and well-wishers from across the United Kingdom and beyond, all united in thanksgiving to God for forty years of divine preservation, spiritual growth and impactful ministry.
Addressing the congregation, the Shepherd of the parish, Superior Evangelist Yomi Olaleye declared that the remarkable success of the anniversary harvest was a reflection of God’s unfailing faithfulness and the sacrificial commitment of members who invested their time, resources and unwavering dedication towards the success of the celebration. Quoting Psalm 126:5–6, he described the occasion as living proof that those who sow in tears will indeed reap in joy, emphasizing that every prayer offered, every act of service rendered and every financial sacrifice made for God’s work had produced a harvest worthy of celebration.
The Shepherd reserved special tribute for the founding Shepherd, the Late Venerable Superior Evangelist Segun Owolabi, describing him as the visionary whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering faith established the spiritual foundation upon which CCC Manchester Parish 1 continues to flourish today. He noted that the late shepherd commitment to holiness, discipline, evangelism and strict adherence to Celestial Church of Christ doctrine remains deeply rooted in the identity of the parish. According to him, the thriving congregation and the successful 40th anniversary celebration stand as enduring evidence that the labour of faithful servants of God never goes in vain.
Superior Evangelist Olaleye also applauded the steadfast cooperation of the Deputy Shepherd, Special Most Venerable Senior Evangelist Adekunle Olagunju, whose loyalty, wisdom and commitment to the vision of the parish have strengthened the leadership and contributed immensely to the successful organisation of the anniversary harvest. He described the harmonious relationship between both church leaders as a model of unity, humility and shared responsibility that has continued to foster peace, stability and sustained growth within the parish.
While expressing profound appreciation to members, harvest committees, church workers, donors, choir members and volunteers, the Shepherd said the overwhelming success of the anniversary reflected the uncommon spirit of unity and stewardship that has become the hallmark of Manchester Parish 1. He stressed that every contribution, whether seen or unseen, played a vital role in making the celebration a memorable and spiritually rewarding event, adding that God would richly reward every labour of love.
Looking ahead, Superior Evangelist Olaleye reaffirmed the parish’s unwavering commitment to the core mandate of Celestial Church of Christ. He declared that CCC Manchester Parish 1, UK would continue to champion aggressive evangelism, preserve the sacred doctrines and ordinances of the church, encourage faithful payment of tithes as an act of biblical obedience, and remain committed to the spiritual development of every member. He urged the congregation not to allow the success of the anniversary to breed complacency but to see it as a fresh call to greater dedication and service in God’s vineyard.
The colourful anniversary was marked by vibrant worship, joyful thanksgiving processions, inspiring hymns, uplifting musical ministrations and heartfelt expressions of gratitude, reflecting the unity and spiritual vitality that have characterised the parish for forty years. Every aspect of the celebration echoed the enduring impact of a church that has remained steadfast in proclaiming Christ while nurturing generations of faithful worshippers within the United Kingdom Diocese.
As the celebrations concluded, one message resonated throughout the congregation: greatness is sustained by vision, sacrifice, unity and unwavering faith in God. Standing on the enduring legacy of the Late VSE Segun Owolabi, strengthened by the collaborative leadership of Superior Evangelist Yomi Olaleye and SVMSE Adekunle Olagunju, and inspired by the dedication of its members, CCC Manchester Parish 1 enters its fifth decade with renewed purpose and a firm resolve to remain a lighthouse of holiness, evangelism and sound Celestial doctrine for generations to come.
By Celestial Prerogative News
