Lagos RCCG holds Jesus market, distributes free food to residents
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Prosperity Assembly, Okeafa, Isolo, Lagos, on Sunday conducted the second edition of its community outreach programme, during which food items and household essentials were distributed to residents.
The outreach, known as “Jesus Market,” is aimed at supporting members of the host community through the free distribution of food items. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the event took place at the church premises and attracted both church members and residents of the surrounding community.
Speaking at the event, the Resident Pastor, Pastor Bisi Folahan, explained that the second edition was designed to demonstrate the love of Christ through giving.
“This edition is centred on expressing the love of Christ. Unlike the first edition, where items were sold at highly subsidised prices, we chose this time to give out most of the items free of charge,” he said.
He noted that each family in attendance received a food package containing essentials such as rice, beans, and garri.
“Jesus came as a gift to the world, and if He is a gift, then we too should freely give to people,” Folahan added.
The pastor disclosed that the outreach was made possible through the support of corporate organisations, foundations, and individual church members, noting that the resources committed to the programme ran into millions of naira. He assured that the church remains committed to sustaining the initiative despite prevailing economic challenges.
“This is God’s project, and God always makes provision for His work. By His grace, we intend to continue this outreach twice every year,” he said, adding that future editions would include medical outreach, scholarships, and other social interventions.
Also speaking, the Minister in Charge of Welfare, Pastor Mercy Oloworoporoku, emphasised that the programme was open to everyone, not just church members.
“Our aim is to put smiles on the faces of as many people as possible, including members of the surrounding community,” she said.
Similarly, the Assistant Pastor overseeing Area 12, Pastor Seun Folahan, highlighted the importance of generosity during the season, stating that giving attracts divine blessings.
The Head of the Welfare Department, Mrs Faith Okoduwa-Ilembiluan, revealed that 120 Christmas food boxes were distributed to families, alongside additional food items supplied by a non-governmental organisation.
Reacting to the initiative, one of the beneficiaries, Ms Victoria Ernest, described the outreach as timely and impactful, noting that the Jesus Market had provided much-needed relief through the distribution of food items.
NAN reports that the organisers have assured residents that future editions of the outreach will be expanded to reach more people within and beyond the community.