A Century of Faith: Eternal Sacred Order of the Morning Star & St. Michael Star Celebrates 100 Years of Saint Moses Orimolade’s Legacy
By Arikawe Femi
The Cherubim and Seraphim Church has marked 100 years since its founding by Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase, with celebrations held nationwide and across the diaspora.
From city centers to rural villages, worshippers in flowing white garments gathered in thanksgiving, commemorating the prophetic vision of the man regarded as the father of indigenous African Pentecostalism.
One of the largest gatherings took place at the Eternal Sacred Order of the Morning Star & St. Michael Star Fountain of Life – Mount Zion International General Headquarters in Lagos. The event coincided with the church’s 68th Annual General Conference and was led by His Most Eminence, Respected Spiritual Father J.O. Adenaike (Benadin) JP, Baba Aladura of the Morning Star Church Worldwide.
The People’s Voice Nigeria News, covering the Lagos celebrations, observed that the week-long program drew thousands and featured a Night of Praise, a Road Walk for Christ, doctrinal seminars, and reflections on Orimolade’s life and teachings.
Remembering the Founder
Born in 1879 in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, Orimolade’s story has become legend. Family accounts say he walked and spoke from birth—early signs of divine calling. Despite physical challenges, he emerged as a preacher of boldness and miracles.
He rejected ritual sacrifices, emphasizing holiness, prayer, and purity. By introducing water and oil as symbols of healing and consecration, he offered a simpler expression of faith. In 1925, he founded the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, the first indigenous African Pentecostal movement. Today, millions worldwide uphold his vision, with the white garment as a defining symbol of purity and service.
A Call for Unity
At the Lagos celebration, Baba Aladura Adenaike described the centenary as a prophetic moment.
“This celebration is going to unite all white garment churches the world over. The message is: God will turn your sorrow into joy.” – Baba Aladura J.O. Adenaike
His Most Eminence, Respected Spiritual Father J.O. Adenaike (Benadin) JP, Baba Aladura of the Morning Star Church Worldwide.
Organizers said the scale of the commemoration reflected a longing to return to Orimolade’s original vision of holiness, unity, and service.
Global Reach
The centenary also highlighted the church’s diaspora presence. Representing the London Borough Parish, Senior Apostle General David Adeyemi Fatoba spoke on its growing appeal abroad.
“People don’t know that we conduct our service in English here in Nigeria. That invites more people to the church in London.” – David Adeyemi Fatoba
He urged young members not to abandon the white garment tradition, describing it as a spiritual covering and a source of strength for families overseas.
Women of Faith
Women played a prominent role in the commemoration. Rita Ogboko, Secretary of the Edo Delta Anambra Province Women’s Association, reflected on their evolving role.
“Women are now preaching Christ, trying to know Him more. We are doing better than before.” – Rita Ogboko
She said the centenary has inspired women to deepen their faith and expand their influence in communities and the church.
The Theology of White
The symbolism of the white garment, often misunderstood outside the movement, was also addressed. Special Senior Apostle General Oluwatosin Badejo, Chief Protocol in Lagos, explained its scriptural roots.
“You cannot serve God without white. It’s inspiration by the Spirit of God.” – Oluwatosin Badejo
Citing Revelation 7, he said the garment represents purity, holiness, and readiness for divine service.
Growth and Evangelism
The church’s expansion was another highlight of the centenary. Most Apostle General J.O. Dawoodu, chairman of the organizing committee, described the celebration as a testimony of God’s faithfulness.
“The church has grown from one parish to over 100 globally. That is enough to celebrate.” – J.O. Dawoodu
In northern Nigeria, evangelism is yielding quiet but steady results. Most Apostle General Innocent C.A. Dialekwe said healing miracles are opening doors to the gospel.
“When they receive healing, they preach the gospel to others.” – Innocent C.A. Dialekwe
Beyond Celebration
For many, the centenary was not just an anniversary but a spiritual awakening. Across Nigeria and in diaspora parishes, worshippers described it as a reminder of Orimolade’s central message: live righteously, serve humbly, and walk in the light of Christ.
From Lagos to London, Kano to Kent, the centenary became a global convergence of faith, symbolizing the resilience and relevance of Orimolade’s legacy.
As Baba Aladura Adenaike declared:
“This is the beginning of unity.”
And for millions of Cherubim and Seraphim worshippers worldwide, it also marks the beginning of a renewed journey, a journey that honors the prophetic vision of Saint Moses Orimolade and recommits to the sacred path of holiness, unity, and eternal glory.
