By Olayinka Latona

To commemorate the 10th annual memorial lecture, scholarship, and bursary awards in honour of Special Apostle for Evangelism, Prophet Gabriel Fakeye, clerics from the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Movement Church and beyond, along with church members, family, and friends, gathered at the Prophet (Dr.) Gabriel Olubunmi Fakeye Memorial Cathedral on the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Lagos.

This year’s lecture, titled “From St. Moses Orimolade Tunolase to Gabriel Olubunmi Fakeye—The Making of the Cherubim & Seraphim Church Centenary and Beyond,” reflected on the spiritual evolution of the C&S Church—from the pioneering vision of St. Moses Orimolade to the transformative ministry of Prophet Gabriel Olubunmi Fakeye, particularly in fostering unity within the church.

In his welcome and keynote address, Senior Special Apostle Pastor George Ogunleye, Chairman and General Leader of the C&S Movement Church, Surulere District, emphasized the importance of honouring the late Prophet Fakeye for his pivotal role in unifying the church.

“Would it be too much to document his contributions as part of the permanent records in our church’s history? Should he not be included in the various memorials being established by our church?” he asked.

Pastor Ogunleye further highlighted Prophet Fakeye’s influence, stating:

“Without fear of contradiction, with utmost humility and modesty, it can be said that much of the recognition and acceptance the C&S Church enjoys today—both within and outside Nigeria—can be attributed to Prophet Fakeye. His humble and peaceful nature endeared him to both Christians and non-Christians. He was a true apostle of peaceful coexistence among all denominations and religions.”

He also described the C&S Church as “one of the greatest gifts of God to Christianity, Yorubaland, and the entire world,” noting that St. Moses Orimolade’s prophetic ministry brought significant transformation, the impact of which is still evident today.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Special Apostle Pastor Steven Ogidan emphasized that the combined efforts of Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase and Prophet Gabriel Olubunmi Fakeye have shaped the C&S Church into the thriving religious institution it is today.

He explained that while Orimolade’s visionary leadership laid the spiritual foundation of the church, Fakeye’s organizational expertise and prophetic ministry helped to expand its influence.

“This is a symbolic year for the Cherubim and Seraphim Church worldwide, as well as for the Cherubim & Seraphim Movement Church, Surulere District Headquarters, Ayo Ni O. It marks a centenary of the C&S Church and a decade since the passing of our dearly beloved and respected Prophet Gabriel Olubunmi Fakeye—a great Special Apostle for Evangelism. I deeply appreciate the church leadership for bringing these two significant milestones together under a theme that further highlights the legacy of the C&S Church, Nigeria’s first indigenous church.”

“St. Moses Orimolade Tunolase and Prophet Gabriel Olubunmi Fakeye played crucial roles in the church’s development. Orimolade laid the spiritual foundation through divine power and prophetic authority, while Fakeye strengthened that foundation through institutional development and global vision. Their combined legacy demonstrates how indigenous African Christianity can remain spiritually authentic while addressing modern challenges. As the church continues to grow, their examples offer wisdom and inspiration in navigating contemporary issues while preserving spiritual integrity.”

As part of the event, the church awarded ₦250,000 in scholarship grants to two indigent students of the University of Lagos and ₦60,000 bursary awards to 40 students enrolled in various higher institutions across Nigeria.