On the 12th of May 2024, Celestial members worldwide came together for a powerful congregational prayer. As part of the spiritual instruction, each member was asked to bring 3 sticks of candles. With a population of approximately 500,000 Celestial members in Nigeria, a staggering 1.5 million candles were used, costing #200 each. This resulted in a total of 300 million naira on a single day.
The unfortunate reality is that this money belongs to a Chinese company that produces candles for Celestial Church of Christ or other white garment churches. Instead of investing in the production of items consumed by its members, the Church is spending a significant amount of money on external companies. It is clear that Celestial Church of Christ stand as a major religious organization that uses white candles for prayer, we have the potential to generate substantial revenue through the production of candles, white garments, and spiritual perfumes.
We are currently operating in consumption markets, with a lack of focus on investing in capital projects that would allow the Church to generate income internally, rather than relying on external companies. This misconception in leadership has had a negative impact on our Church, as our attention has shifted away from innovation towards meeting the dreams and priorities of the Church.
A candle factory machine
The funds collected through anointment fees and monthly returns are sufficient to establish a candle factory, which would provide employment opportunities for members of the Church and help alleviate societal tensions. The products manufactured at the factory would be distributed across the six geopolitical zones of the country with the factory site at km 53 Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, creating a network of support and growth to Nigeria economy.
It is time for the Church to consolidate its resources and cease outsourcing to external companies without any tangible benefits to the Church. By investing in internal projects and initiatives, we can strengthen our church income fulfill the true mission of the Church.
The Church should take control of its resources and invest in its own production facilities. Imagine the possibilities of creating high-quality candles, white garment and spiritual perfumes for our members, while also generating income for the Church. Pastor, the time to invest in the candle factory is now.
