Three prominent clerics from the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) tragically passed away on the first day of 2025. The deceased include Evangelist Oladotun Elusanmi, Shepherd Olumuyiwa Michael, and Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Johnson Olajuwon.
Elusanmi was the Shepherd of the Orisun Ayo Parish in Ilupeju, while Michael served as the Shepherd In-Charge of Christ Testimony Parish in Ikorodu. Olajuwon, until his death, was the prophet at the Celestial Church of Christ, Saint S.B.J. Oshoffa Cathedral, located at the International Headquarters in Ketu, Lagos.
The news of their passing has deeply affected the Celestial Church community, with members expressing their grief on various social media platforms. Superior Evangelist Kayode Ajala, the Secretary of the Pastor in Council and Head of Media and Publicity for CCC worldwide, confirmed Olajuwon’s death on the church’s official website. Ajala described the suddenness of his passing as a shock to many, especially since Olajuwon had read the second lesson at the cross-over service and was in good health and high spirits just hours before his death.
In a tribute shared on Facebook, Olatosho Oshoffa, the Shepherd of CCC International Headquarters in Ketu, described Olajuwon as a dedicated, loyal, and truthful servant of God. Similarly, the CCC Christ Testimony Parish in Ikorodu announced Michael’s death on its Facebook page, while Elusanmi’s passing was confirmed via the ‘Celestialgeneration’ Instagram account the same day.
In an interview on Saturday, Ajala urged against any superstitious interpretations of the deaths, stating that such beliefs contradict the Christian faith. He emphasized that death is a natural part of life and should not be seen as mysterious or extraordinary, regardless of the coincidence of three deaths occurring on the same day. He further quoted the Bible, stating, “There is a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to laugh, and a time to cry,” reminding followers that everyone has a set time to leave this world.
Ajala also expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the Celestial Church leadership would provide support during this difficult time. He concluded by stressing that while the church is in mourning, it is important not to attach any superstitious meanings to the deaths, as the Celestial community continues to pray for protection from sudden death.
The passing of these beloved clergymen has left a deep void in the Celestial Church community, with many mourning their loss and reflecting on their contributions to the church.