-
GENESIS Global Parish Founder, ISRAEL OLADELE
Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, popularly known as Genesis, is the shepherd in charge of the Genesis Global Parish in the Alakuko area of Lagos. He is a young, anointed man of God who has been performing wonders through the grace of God.
A few weeks ago, he celebrated his birthday, an event that was widely recognized due to his global membership. Fondly referred to as Genesis by his congregation around the world, he is a leader, preacher, and teacher endowed with charismatic and apostolic gifts. Though he may be small in stature, he possesses immense wisdom and knowledge from above.
On his birthday, City People’s Isaac Abimbade (08155107955) had a phone conversation with him about his life and his mission in Christendom. City People was curious about why he always preaches in English, a practice that is not common among white garment churches, especially the Celestial Church in Nigeria. His response was insightful and educational.
“Though I am not the only one who preaches in English, we are few. I chose to preach in English to relate better to some of my congregants. We have many educated individuals in our church, including people from Igbo tribe and other backgrounds. There are many non-Yoruba speakers among us. It baffles me when some say that white garment churches don’t use English to preach. It’s a deliberate strategy to include everyone, regardless of their background. We aim to break the language barrier that has held many people back from worshipping in the Celestial Church. I also use English when invited to other churches for programs. Don’t forget that many of our branches are youth-dominated, so preaching in English is the best way to engage them,” he concluded.
When asked why he prefers to dress casually, often in mufti when attending events at other churches, he explained, “I wear casual clothes because our sultanas serve more as a spiritual symbol and are tied to one’s identity. It depends on how you receive your grace from God. For me, it doesn’t have to be about wearing a sultana. I also have friends who are not Christians, some of whom are Muslims, and I want people to see that Celestial Church is not rigid. While those who wear sultanas constantly may receive messages about their attire, I have not been given such a message. I travel and attend events in Mufti to connect more easily with people. This is the way I want to be seen and identified as a Celestial Prophet.”
Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe is known for his inclusive approach; life has taught him valuable lessons about discrimination. Just weeks ago, he shared with his congregation the experiences that shaped him. “I was born without a silver spoon and was initially named Wasiu due to my Muslim background before my parents embraced Christianity. My mother is a deaconess, and my father, though deceased, was also a deacon.”
“Despite my humble beginnings, I did not allow my background to hold me back or determine my destination in life. I became who I am today through personal development and growth, to the glory of God,” he stated.
Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe is a popular and respected leader in Lagos, presiding over Genesis Global, the largest and fastest-growing interdenominational church in the world, with over 10,000 members, including Muslims. As a prophet, he inspires people in all facets of life.
He is part of a generation of elites who tirelessly unite dynamic young entrepreneurs for Christ through one of his well-known annual programs, “Standouts,” which has positively impacted thousands of youths both locally and in the diaspora.
It is often said that the things we see are controlled by the things we cannot see. Those of the Christian faith may phrase it as, “the spiritual controls the physical.” Therefore, any discussion of this quintessential prophet of God should include a mention of his spiritual influence: Genesis began his Christian journey in the Christ Apostolic Church, despite his Muslim background. He is one of the founding pioneers of CCC Genesis Global, located on Duro Ishola Street off Dalemo Alakuko Road in Lagos.
While fulfilling his duties in various capacities within the church, he is an accurate preacher and a dynamic motivational speaker who adheres to the biblical principle of not letting one’s youth be despised. He is a young man who lives his life with sanctity, purpose, and reverence for God.
