Faith Cathedral International Ministries Lagos, a leading Christian and Holy Spirit-filled church located in Egbeda, Lagos, recently concluded its annual Thanksgiving celebration—a spiritually uplifting, week-long program that drew hundreds of worshippers from across Nigeria and beyond. The event, held at the church’s state-of-the-art auditorium, featured powerful ministrations from respected men of God, both local and international, leaving congregants inspired, rejuvenated, and spiritually empowered.
The central theme of the Thanksgiving service, “Why Should I Give Thanks?”, resonated deeply throughout the program. Pastor Fred Obetoh, the General Overseer of Faith Cathedral International Ministries, delivered a compelling sermon emphasizing the vital role of gratitude in the Christian life. “We all have countless reasons to thank God. The very fact that we are alive and breathing today is enough reason to lift our voices in thanksgiving,” Pastor Obetoh said, setting the tone for the week’s spiritual reflections.
In his sermon, Pastor Obetoh highlighted that thanksgiving is not merely a ritual but a foundational principle that demonstrates a believer’s recognition of God’s goodness and mercy. He urged congregants to reflect on the blessings they have received, noting that even unfulfilled ambitions and challenges should be met with gratitude. “God’s mercies and goodness are evident in our lives. Some of our ambitions may not have been realized yet, but we are called to give thanks in everything, for His mercies endure forever,” he stated.
Drawing from the Bible, Pastor Obetoh referenced Luke 17:11-19, recounting the story of ten lepers healed by Jesus Christ, of whom only one returned to give thanks. “This passage reminds us of the importance of gratitude. Thanksgiving is like a spiritual buoy; it lifts us above trials and keeps us afloat in the storms of life. No thanksgiving is ever wasted,” he explained.
He further encouraged members to appreciate God’s interventions in everyday life. “Consider the hospital bed you lay on, from which God discharged you—many others did not survive. That alone is reason enough to thank Him,” he remarked. Pastor Obetoh emphasized that gratitude should extend beyond personal achievements and should include recognition of God’s continuous care, protection, and provision.
According to Pastor Obetoh, consistent thanksgiving is a key to spiritual and material blessings. “Serving God faithfully with gratitude ensures that His blessings remain abundant. Even the miracles of Jesus feeding the multitude began with giving thanks. Prayer gives you the beginning, but thanksgiving completes it,” he said.
He also challenged members to reject entitlement and impatience, urging them to trust God’s timing and providence. “Never say things aren’t working. To declare that as a Christian is an insult to God. Remember, there is a time for everything, and with God, all things are possible,” Pastor Obetoh emphasized, citing personal experiences of trials and triumphs to encourage congregants.
The pastor concluded by underscoring the role of gratitude in nurturing future generations. “We must teach our children to appreciate God, even with the little they have. Thanksgiving is not just a habit; it is a spiritual principle that preserves blessings and attracts favor. What a man earns through thanksgiving is always earned well,” he said.
Profile: Faith Cathedral International Ministries Lagos
Founded on the principles of holiness, spiritual empowerment, and community engagement, Faith Cathedral International Ministries Lagos has grown into one of the leading Spirit-filled churches in Lagos. With a robust program of worship, discipleship, and social outreach, the church serves as a hub for spiritual growth, offering congregants opportunities for ministry, personal development, and communal fellowship.
Profile: Pastor Fred Obetoh
Pastor Fred Obetoh, the General Overseer of Faith Cathedral International Ministries, is widely respected for his dynamic preaching, practical biblical teachings, and commitment to uplifting lives spiritually and socially. Under his leadership, the church has expanded its reach both locally and internationally, impacting thousands of lives through teachings on faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of gratitude.
The week-long Thanksgiving program at Faith Cathedral International Ministries Lagos left attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and a deepened commitment to living a life marked by gratitude, faith, and service to God. As Pastor Obetoh reminded the congregation, “Prayer gives you the beginning, but thanksgiving gives you the end. Always end your prayers with gratitude, for thanksgiving unlocks the fullness of God’s blessings.”
