Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), has called on critics to refrain from questioning the church’s decisions regarding the retirement of its pastors. This response comes after social media backlash over the announced retirements of his two vice presidents, Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye, who are stepping down after decades of service.
Reports emerged last week indicating that Bishop Aremu would retire after 30 years in ministry, while Bishop Abioye is concluding his 40-year tenure. The decision aligns with the church’s operational guidelines, known as The Mandate, which functions as its constitutional framework. Oyedepo emphasized the church’s adherence to these established guidelines during his sermon at a valedictory service for Bishop Aremu.
In his remarks, Oyedepo urged his audience to focus on their own affairs rather than scrutinizing the church’s policies. “My advice to commentators is to study to be quiet and mind your business,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of understanding what works within the church, reinforcing that “everything works here.”
The Bishop explained that the church’s Administrative Policy, initially set in 1998, was revised in 2001, and The Mandate was updated again in 2024. He pointed out that the new guidelines have changed the retirement age for pastors from 60 to 55 years. While Oyedepo retains the right to serve for life, future leaders will face term limits of one or two terms of seven years, subject to approval from the Board of Trustees.
Oyedepo also addressed those who wish for the ministry’s downfall, declaring that they are wasting their “lives.” He reiterated the importance of faith and perseverance, emphasizing that critics should invest their energy in personal growth rather than negative commentary on the church.
During the service, he urged Bishop Aremu to keep God at the center of his life, warning that taking a spiritual break could be risky. “There’s no such thing as the best today or tomorrow; what matters is your pursuit of God,” Oyedepo said, encouraging Aremu to maintain a growth-oriented mindset.
Additionally, he quoted Genesis 49:26, stating that no one has an inheritance in a teacher or pastor, further reinforcing his message about the importance of divine calling and commitment. Oyedepo advised Aremu to remain focused on his spiritual journey and to disregard unfounded criticism.
Bishop Aremu, in his address, clarified his intentions post-retirement, stating, “I don’t have a church, and I cannot have a church because God has not infused me with the capacity to do so. This is my church.” His statement emphasizes his loyalty to Winners Chapel and his commitment to the church’s mission.
Aremu, who transitioned into full-time ministry from a successful accounting career, is notable for being the last surviving bishop among those consecrated at the Garden of Faith in Kaduna in November 1999. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for Bishop Abioye’s farewell ceremony, which is scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024, in Durumi, Abuja.
