The atmosphere at Okeafa, Isolo, Lagos, was one of joy and gratitude on Sunday as the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Prosperity Assembly, rolled out the second edition of its community outreach tagged “Jesus Market,” putting free food on the tables of residents amid tough economic times.
The outreach, held at the church premises, drew both church members and people from the surrounding community, all of whom went home with food items and household essentials. Unlike the first edition, which offered items at highly subsidised prices, this year’s programme focused largely on outright giving.
Speaking during the event, the Resident Pastor, Pastor Bisi Folahan, said the idea behind the Jesus Market was to practically demonstrate Christ’s love.
> “This particular edition focuses on the love of Christ. Unlike the first edition where we sold items at very low prices, this time we decided to give out most of the items free of charge,” he said.
According to him, every family in attendance received a food package containing staples such as rice, beans and garri.
> “We want to show the love of Christ; Jesus came as a gift to the world, and if He is a gift, then we should also give gifts to people freely,” Folahan added.
He disclosed that the outreach was made possible through the support of corporate organisations, foundations and individual church members.
> “These partners sent items which we distributed free of charge; the resources we put together for this edition runs into millions of naira,” he said.
Despite prevailing economic challenges, Folahan assured that the church was committed to sustaining the initiative.
> “This is God’s project, and for every project of God, provision will always be made. We are already receiving support from organisations and individuals, and by God’s grace, we will continue to do this twice every year,” he stated.
He also revealed plans to expand future editions to include medical outreach, scholarships and other social interventions.
The Minister in charge of the church’s Welfare, Pastor Mercy Oloworoporoku, emphasised that the programme was open to everyone, not just church members.
> “We welcome people from the community; our goal is to put smiles on as many faces as possible,” she said.
Similarly, the Assistant Pastor overseeing Area 12, Pastor Seun Folahan, described the outreach as a reminder of the power of generosity.
> “This season is about giving; as we give, God will also give back to us,” she said.
On her part, the Head of the Welfare Department, Mrs Faith Okoduwa-Ilembiluan, disclosed that 120 Christmas food boxes were distributed to families, while additional food items supplied by a non-governmental organisation were also shared with members of the public.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Victoria Ernest, described the initiative as timely, noting that the Jesus Market came as a huge relief.
She said the programme was “amazing,” especially with the extension of food items to families who needed them the most.
Organisers have assured that subsequent editions of the Jesus Market will be expanded to reach more people within and beyond the host community.
NAN
