By Afolabi Olajuwon
On Sunday, June 15, 2025, the Foursquare Gospel Church at the Wuse District Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, hosted a vibrant Father’s Day celebration, emphasizing the essential role of a responsible Christian father in the family and society. The event, part of a global initiative by Foursquare Gospel Churches, focused on family unity, spiritual growth, and the biblical principles of fatherhood.
The celebration began with a soul-stirring praise and worship session by men’s mass choir led by Psalmist Adebisi, setting a tone of reverence and gratitude. The congregation was then treated to a series of speeches, presentations, and a powerful sermon that drew deeply from Scripture to illuminate the qualities of a godly father.
The theme of the celebration, “Responsible Father: Provides and Protects,” was eloquently introduced by Elder. Tom Itodo, delivering a speech prepared by the National President, Deacon Dr. Adeleke Adesoye. Emphasizing the biblical foundation from Ephesians 5:25, the discourse highlighted the virtues of a real man who embodies the qualities of provision and protection.
Accompanied by insightful speeches from Elder Joseph Okurinboye, the CFM President and Mummy Tolu Kolawole, the President of the FWI Wuse Church, the event featured an inspiring poetry session by Sister Grace Idachaba, drawing from biblical principles about the essence of true manhood. The women’s group expressed gratitude and admiration for the fathers’ contributions, while the children captured hearts with a creative presentation, detailing the noble attributes represented by the acronym ‘FATHER.’
Gifts were then distributed to all fathers in the congregation, acknowledging their invaluable roles in guiding and protecting their families. This act of appreciation was followed by a powerful sermon delivered by Elder Abiola Fola-Olumole, centered on the topic “Be a Responsible Christian Father,” was rooted in biblical teachings, which highlights the importance of fulfilling one’s God-given responsibilities. Elder Fola-Olumole explored the multipurpose role of a father, drawing from several key Bible passages:
1 Timothy 5:8: A father must provide for his family, as failing to do so is tantamount to denying the faith.
Ephesians 6:14: Fathers are called to stand firm in their faith, embodying the armor of God as spiritual leaders.
Ephesians 2:8: Fathers must model grace and faith, recognizing that salvation is a gift from God.
Romans 10:17: Faith comes by hearing the Word of God, emphasizing the father’s role in teaching and sharing Scripture with his family.
Hebrews 10:38-39: A father must live by faith and not shrink back, demonstrating steadfastness in his walk with God.
Genesis 12:2 and 15:1: Fathers are called to be men of vision, trusting in God’s promises and guidance.
Ephesians 6:4 and Deuteronomy 6:6-7: Fathers are to teach, train, and admonish their children in the ways of the Lord, ensuring that God’s commandments are passed down through generations.
Proverbs 22:6: Training a child in the way they should go ensures they will not depart from it.
Genesis 18:19: A father must command his household to follow the Lord, leading by example in righteousness and justice.
Psalm 50:23: A father’s life should reflect godly wisdom and integrity, ordering his conversations aright.
The Role of a Responsible Christian Father
Elder Fola-Olumole emphasized that a responsible Christian father is not only a provider and protector but also a role model, intercessor, and man of vision. He highlighted the importance of prayer, sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, and the application of wisdom in daily life. Fathers were encouraged to be men of honour, demonstrating faith and positively influencing their families and communities.
The sermon also addressed adoptive and stepfathers, reminding them that their role is equally vital in God’s eyes. The message was clear: fatherhood is a divine calling that requires humility, obedience to God, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation in the fear of the Lord.
Celebrating Fatherhood
The event was further enriched by heartfelt presentations from the women and children of the church. The children creatively defined the acronym “FATHER,” expressing gratitude for the guidance and protection their fathers provide. Gifts were presented to all the men in attendance as a token of appreciation for their unwavering support and love.
The celebration concluded with the hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” accompanied by prayers for fathers to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to their families.
A Call to Action
The Father’s Day celebration at Foursquare Gospel Church was not just a moment of recognition but a call to action for Christian fathers worldwide. It underscored the biblical mandate for fathers to lead their families with faith, wisdom, and love, ensuring that their homes are rooted in the principles of God’s Word.
As the church continues to champion family unity and spiritual growth, this event serves as a reminder that the role of a responsible Christian father is important in shaping a godly legacy for generations to come.
To God be the glory, great things He has done!
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Institute of Management Consultants, Chronicle Business School, Abuja, Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
