“Heartfelt Gift to Pastor Sparks Reflection on Church Giving and Community Impact”
By Passman Akpos
YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE – In a heartwarming display of appreciation, members of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel) Azikoro in Yenagoa pooled resources to present their resident pastor, Pst. Segun Michael Adeleye, with a brand-new car.
The gesture, carried out by an anonymous group of church members, was described as a way of acknowledging Pastor Adeleye’s “labours of love” and dedicated service to the Assembly.
The pastor, visibly overwhelmed, was ambushed with the surprise as he exited the church following Sunday service. In response, Pst. Adeleye offered heartfelt prayers for everyone involved, asking God to bless and replenish those who contributed to the act of kindness.
Journalist Onisoman Kos-Ikah captured the moment, noting the emotional reactions of both the pastor and congregation members.
While the act has drawn widespread congratulations from church members and the broader community, some observers have suggested that similar energy could be channeled into empowering young church members to start businesses or scale existing ventures—projects that could have broader economic impact for the church and state.
Social media reactions reflected both admiration and constructive critique:
“He deserves it. He was once the resident pastor in LFC Tanke, Kwara State. The man is so devoted. The moment he mounts the pulpit, no more room for sadness.”
“It would be encouraging to see churches pull resources to finance individuals and projects that translate to economic growth, rather than just buying cars.”
“Congratulations, sir. Dedication pays. I worked with you for a few months and can confirm you are a man of God with a good heart.”
Some also offered stylistic advice on reporting, pointing out minor tautology in describing the gift as a “surprise gift,” suggesting “surprise” or “gift” alone would suffice.
Regardless of critique, the gesture has captured hearts across the community, affirming the strong bond between Pst. Adeleye and the Azikoro congregation, and reinforcing the value of gratitude and service in the church environment.
