The city of Lagos found itself in the throes of a serious fuel shortage for a week! This unexpected turn of events left the Area Apostle and many brethren greatly disappointed, especially as they eagerly anticipated the arrival of all the Apostles and the Bishop in Nigeria to minister to them.

Amidst this challenging time, the choristers from Lagos West and East, Ota, Abeokuta, and Ibadan, along with all the members from Lagos, found solace in the prospect of an appointment with God in His house.

The plan was to hold a combined divine service, serving as the official launch of activities in preparation for the forthcoming visit of District Apostle Michael Ehrich in October. He would preside over the grand finale program commemorating the 50th anniversary of the New Apostolic Church in Nigeria, spanning from 1974 to 2024.

With the text word taken from the book of John 15:9,11, "As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full," Lead Apostle Geoffrey Nwogu delivered a heartfelt message. He emphasized, "Christ bestows His joy upon those who steadfastly abide in His love." 

Despite the fuel shortage, the divine service commenced an hour later than planned, allowing all the brethren to gather, many of whom were delayed due to the scarcity of vehicles on the roads.

Welcomed by the Sunday school children adorned in traditional attire, their voices resonating with passion and joy as they sang the welcome song "When we trust and obey," Lead Apostle Geoffrey Nwogu, accompanied by his entourage comprised of Apostles Oscar Kabanga Nwanza of the Western Region, Enobong Udoh of South West, Jediel Gwani of North, Samuel Usoro of South East, Ernest Onwukwe of East Central, Chima Ibekwe of Middle East, Armstrong Inyang of South Central, Goddey Odili from the South, and Felix Kpegasin from South-South, graciously accepted a bouquet of flowers.

Addressing the brethren assembled at the Gallery of the Central Church in Ikeja, Lead Apostle Geoffrey Nwogu conveyed a profound message: "Jesus loves us just as His Father loved Him, despite our imperfections. By exercising faith, obedience, and demonstrating love towards our neighbor, we abide in His love. It is through such love that Jesus imparts His joy to us."

Despite initial concerns, 456 members attended this divine service, a remarkable turnout that pleasantly surprised the area Apostle amidst the city's fuel shortage.

Truly, every disappointment is indeed a blessing.