The Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) has been plunged into mourning following the sudden deaths of three prominent clerics on January 1, 2025. Evangelist Oladotun Elusanmi, Shepherd Olumuyiwa Michael, and Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Johnson Olajuwon passed away on the first day of the year, leaving the church community in shock and grief.
The announcement was made in a statement by Superior Evangelist Kayode Ajala, Secretary of the Pastor in Council and Head of Media and Publicity for the CCC worldwide. The statement, published on the church’s website, described the losses as a significant blow to the church.
Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Johnson Olajuwon’s Passing
Evangelist Ajala revealed that Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist (Prophet) Johnson Olajuwon, who served as the prophet at the CCC Saint S.B.J. Oshoffa Cathedral, International Headquarters in Ketu, passed away unexpectedly.
“The suddenness of his passing has left many in shock, as he had read the second lesson during the cross-over service and was full of life,” Ajala noted.
In a tribute shared on Facebook, the Shepherd of the CCC International Headquarters, Olatosho Oshoffa, described Olajuwon as a loyal and dedicated servant of God.
Shepherd Olumuyiwa Michael and Evangelist Oladotun Elusanmi Remembered
The CCC Christ Testimony Parish in Ikorodu announced the passing of Shepherd Olumuyiwa Michael via its Facebook page at approximately 11 a.m. on New Year’s Day. Similarly, Evangelist Oladotun Elusanmi’s death was confirmed through the Instagram account “Celestialgeneration” on the same day.
Both clerics were fondly remembered by their congregants for their commitment to their spiritual duties and unwavering faith.
A Message of Faith Amid Tragedy
Addressing the unexpected deaths, Superior Evangelist Ajala urged members of the church not to dwell on the coincidence of the three losses, emphasizing that death is an inevitable part of life.
“Death is a necessary end, and it will come at the appropriate time for everyone. People die every day. If three people die in a church as large as Celestial, coincidentally on the same day, I don’t understand why people are making a big deal of it,” Ajala stated.
Quoting scripture, he added: “The Bible says there is a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to laugh and a time to cry. Christians must avoid attaching superstitious meanings to death. We all have our time to go.”
A Church in Mourning
The loss of these three spiritual leaders has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Celestial Church of Christ. Their contributions to the faith and their congregations will be remembered fondly as the church navigates this time of collective grief.
