This year October marks 20 years since I have been serving as a missionary pastor and theologian in the UK therefore I have been reflecting on my journey. Part of this reflection is also prompted by the Award of Hope given to me by the European Evangelical Alliance (EEA). Below are some pictures and here is a link to the social media post of the story Award of Hope

This Award was presented to me at the General Assembly of the European Evangelical Alliance in Sarajevo 2024 in front of around 70 missional and organisational leaders in Europe. I was really humbled and surprised by this award!

Communal Award!

I like to think that this is a communal award as one of my good friend, Dr Harvey Kwiyani in his greetings to me said, “This is good news to our entire community” This really resonates with me on so many levels because firstly, is the effort of my family that looked after me when I came to the UK in 2004. My brother and sisters ensured that I was able to afford and attend my Masters programme in Theology back then. One of my sisters also accommodated me for the first few years. Without my families sacrifice, all my preaching, teaching, theologising and writing will not be possible. I also recall the sacrifices of my mum who had to sell her car in Nigeria so that I can finish my first degree! Lastly, is the sacrifices of my wife and children! For the many times that I am on the road preaching or the space to prepare sermons or write instead of spending some quality time with the family. In all, the Award goes to these family members who have contributed towards my journey.

Friendship

A second reflection is around some of my good friends that we have served and developed some initiatives together. My friends at CMMW who we pioneered this mission network together serving several diaspora and reverse missionaries. Also my friends at Christ Theological College (CTC) whom we have served tirelessly to create a theological institution that can serve the diaspora church and Christians in this changing landscape of mission. I also like to appreciate the churches that I have had the privilegde of leading: Crofton Park Baptist Church, Catford Community Church and Woolwich Central Baptist Church. Crofton Park Baptist Church taught me the dynamics of a multicultural church and sow the seeds of some of the later work that I continue to do around multiculturalism. Catford Community Church opened my eyes to how we can engage in mission through a community centre, whilst Woolwich Central Baptist Church taught me the dynamics of mission in an urban city church with all its challenges.

Overview of Ministry

My work in the the UK have encompassed evangelism, mission, pastoring, discipleship, research, writing, speaking, advocating, justice, climate, intercultural and ambassadorial. Over the twenty years, I have pastored three churches, written eight books, done ministry in Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Switzerland, Germany, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Bosnia and Israel/Palestine. The first phase of my ministry in the UK (2004-2013) revolved around youth work, pastoring, discipleship and evangelism. The second phase (2013-2019) was around research, writing and pioneering new ministries and thinking . The third and current phase engages with interculturality, racial justice, climate justice and public missiology. Overall, I am grateful to God who has guide me these twenty years leading, inspiring and energising me to continue!

Future Work

In terms of future work in these islands, I sense that my work in the area of Public Missiology that looks at the intersection of discipleship, racial injustice, climate injustice and Public Theology will continue to develop. Another area that will continue to develop is my work on interculturality as a worldview and philosophy that can transform our missiology, ecclesiology and Public Theology!