Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), revealed the detention of one of the church’s pastors abroad for using the phrase “Ladies and gentlemen” to address attendees at a program. The phrase was deemed discriminatory within the cultural context of the host country, where it failed to acknowledge all recognized gender identities.
Adeboye shared this during the church’s monthly thanksgiving service at the RCCG Throne of Grace in Lagos, where he delivered a sermon titled My Father’s House. The service was broadcast to RCCG parishes worldwide.
While withholding details about the pastor’s identity and the country involved, Adeboye expressed concern over the incident, warning, “The end is nearer than you think.” He described the pastor’s arrest as a response to allegations of discrimination, with some attendees questioning, “What about those who are neither ladies nor gentlemen?”
The cleric also recounted a separate incident involving a woman who referred to her dog as her husband. The woman claimed her “husband” was at the vet and “doesn’t talk,” emphasizing the unsettling nature of societal changes.
Adeboye interpreted these developments as signs of declining moral values and urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith. He warned, “Do not let anyone weaken your stance. God is holy. For those still playing church without genuine commitment, remember, Jesus is coming back.”
In addition, Adeboye criticized certain fashion trends, including braided hairstyles for men and heavy makeup or false eyelashes for women, declaring such styles unacceptable on RCCG altars. This stance was previously emphasized during the church’s 72nd annual convention in August, themed Heaven, held at Redemption City in Ogun State.
