Report of the Special Weekend Retreat in Konstanz, Germany (24th and 25th May, 2025)

All glory be to God for the success of the Special Weekend Retreat held in Konstanz, Germany, on May 24th and 25th, 2025. Centered on the theme “Christian Identity,” the event was a spirit-filled, refreshing, and blessed gathering.

Brethren from various regions across Germany arrived on Friday, 23rd May, in anticipation of a powerful weekend of revival and fellowship. They were later joined by attendees from Italy and Austria, making for a vibrant and joyful assembly.

A highlight of the weekend was the presence of Reverend Francis Odudu, the Regional Director for Mainland Europe, who travelled from our Western Europe headquarters. He arrived via Zurich Airport and proceeded to Singen, where he and others were graciously accommodated.

Day 1: Saturday, May 24 – Highlights

The day began with soul-lifting choruses led by Sister Jessica, followed by congregational singing and prayer from Sister Abena, who also gave the welcome address. A heartwarming duet, “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” was performed by young members Jeremiah and Daniel.

A profound talk on “Christian Identity” was delivered by Brother Dare, posing the central question: “Who am I?” Citing 2 Corinthians 5:17, he highlighted the believer’s transformation through Christ and urged attendees to embrace their new identity. He emphasized that our identity should not be defined by background, failure, or success, but rather by Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

He challenged believers to reflect this identity in their marriage, career, education, and spiritual walk, urging everyone to become who God truly intends them to be.

This was followed by an engaging Q&A session led by Reverend Odudu, where questions were insightfully addressed. The day’s program closed with a choir ministration, prayer by Brother Gbenga Oladipo, and a shared meal.

28 participants attended (20 in person, 8 online).

 

Evening Revival Service – May 24

The evening revival began at 4:00 PM with an organ prelude by Brother Adenuga Femi, and a violin solo titled “There is Power” by Brother Olusanya Olayinka. The choir rendered “Joy Unspeakable,” followed by congregational singing and prayer.

Testimonies followed the announcements, including powerful accounts of God’s transforming power, healing, divine protection, and faithfulness from Brothers Johnson, Francis, Dare, and Sisters Esther and Victoria.

A special duet, “Jesus is Passing,” by Sister Chinenye and Brother Femi, moved the congregation deeply. Sister Abena then gave an encouraging exhortation titled “Jesus the Rewarder” (Hebrews 11:6), reminding all that God sees and rewards the faithful.

Drawing inspiration from the story of Jabez and Isaiah 61:3, she encouraged those in sin of God’s mighty liberation, and that God has promised beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3).

The service concluded with a song and prayer by Brother Titus Oyedokun, followed by fervent prayers that sparked revival among both in-person and online participants.

Attendance: 24 (22 in person, 2 online).

Day 2: Sunday, May 25

Sunday School

The session opened with music from Brother Titus, and the children’s class, led by Sister Esther Oladipo, focused on Jesus’ sacrificial love.

In the adult class, Brother Titus reviewed key lessons from recent studies, covering topics such as Abraham’s Sacrifice, Restitution, The Passover and Lord’s Supper, Christian Maintenance, and Is My Name Written There? This rich session concluded with a duet (“Higher Ground”) by Sisters Jessica and Joy, and a review and prayer led by Brother Dare.

Devotional Service

The devotional service began with a violin solo by Brother Olayinka, followed by choir ministrations: “Salvation Has Been Brought Down” and “Help Me, O Lord, to Stand.” Brother Dare and Sister Abena led congregational singing and prayer, following which she gave the announcements.

Brother Olayinka sang “Lord, I Want to Be a Christian”, followed by a scripture reading from Psalm 121 by Brother Titus. A second special, “Walk with Me,” was rendered by Sister Abena.

The sermon, titled “Help from Above,” was preached by Reverend Francis Odudu, who shared how God led him to change his originally prepared message. Drawing from Jeremiah 8:2, 20:6, and Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, he highlighted God’s power to intervene in any circumstance. He urged believers to remove every hindrance, yield to the Spirit, and trust in God’s timely help. He also shared a personal testimony of divine guidance during his relocation to London, underscoring that God answers prayers even before we speak them. The service concluded with a benediction by Brother Titus, followed by fervent prayers.

Total attendance: 29 (20 in person, 9 online).

Fellowship and Farewell

After the final service, attendees gathered for a fellowship meal and captured joyful memories in a group photo. With hearts full and spirits lifted, brethren from Germany and neighboring countries began their journeys home—refreshed, encouraged, and spiritually renewed.

It was truly a memorable and impactful weekend in the presence of God!