The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has shared his concern over the arrest of one of the church’s pastors overseas. The pastor was reportedly detained for addressing attendees at an event as “Ladies and gentlemen,” a phrase deemed discriminatory in the context of the local culture.
During the church’s monthly thanksgiving service held at the RCCG Throne of Grace in Lagos State, Pastor Adeboye recounted the incident in his sermon titled “My Father’s House,” which was broadcast to RCCG parishes globally.
“The end is nearer than we think,” he said, expressing alarm at the situation. “One of my pastors abroad was arrested for simply addressing a gathering as ‘ladies and gentlemen.’ Some people reported it as discrimination, asking, ‘What about those who do not identify as either?”
The clergyman also shared another troubling story involving a woman who referred to her dog as her husband. According to Adeboye, when questioned about her spouse, the woman replied, “I took him to the vet before coming. He doesn’t talk,” referring to her pet as her partner.
Adeboye lamented what he described as the erosion of moral values and cited these incidents as signs of the end times.
“Those already in Christ must take these matters seriously,” he urged. “Do not let anyone weaken your faith. God is holy. And for those still ‘playing church,’ remember, Jesus is coming back. The devil wants to lure you away, but you must resist. I want to see you in my Father’s house.”
The RCCG leader, known for his vocal stance on national issues and the integration of foreign cultures into church practices, recently criticized certain fashion trends among church members.
Speaking at the church’s 72nd annual convention in August, themed “Heaven,” Pastor Adeboye expressed disapproval of men wearing braided hair and women using heavy makeup or false eyelashes, declaring such appearances unacceptable on RCCG altars.
The convention, which took place from August 5 to August 11 at The Redemption City in Ogun State, saw Pastor Adeboye reiterate his commitment to upholding the values and traditions of the church in the face of modern societal changes.
