PHOTO: CHRIS IREKAMBA
In attendance were the Bishop of Lagos West, Rt. Reverend (Dr.) James Olusola Odedeji and his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Lydia Odedeji; family of Papa Adebiyi; Dean of the Cathedral, Venerable Ebenezer Adewole, House of the Clergy; House of the Laity; representatives of the Bishop of Lagos Mainland Diocese, Rt. Reverend Akinpelu Johnson; Osi-Ekiti Igbalaye Society; Bishop of Badagry, Rt. Reverend (Dr.) Babatunde Adeyemi; Bishop of Awori, Rt. Reverend (Dr.) Akinwamide Atere; and representatives of the Bishop of Owo Diocese, Rt. Reverend (Dr.) Ayodeji Fagbemi, among others.
In his sermon, the Bishop of Lagos West, Rt. Reverend (Dr.) James Olusola Odedeji eulogised the late Rt. Reverend (Dr.) Peter Awelewa Adebiyi’s solid foundation in the diocese and the positive impact he made on so many people when he was alive. He described the late Papa Adebiyi as a teacher/pastor, who taught so many people the rudiments of faith, destiny helper, covenant helper, liberator, and church planter, among others.
Calling on Christians to fear God, obey his commandments and love their neighbours as themselves, Odedeji said: “Many people think that investment is the only thing. Some people believe gathering assets is very important or having children and properties. None of these things are worth living for but in whatever you do and wherever you are situated fear God, obey his commandments, and love your neighbour as yourself.
“It is the only duty of man. And Papa Adebiyi’s life may be an example for those who are coming on the way because those things I mentioned we are going to leave them behind when we depart from this earth. What will speak for us after we have gone is the quality of life that we lived and the impactful life that we lived. Papa Adebiyi helped so many people to be educated; he ensured that other people survived. When you fear God and serve humanity you will be remembered forever. Pursuing of wealth is not worth it, but we should emulate Papa Adebiyi who invested so much in relationship with others. He cherished others.”
Reverend Dayo Adebiyi who thanked the church and other dignitaries at the event on behalf of his siblings, said: “We appreciate you all and thank you for standing by us since 10 years ago when daddy retired from the Diocese of Lagos West and we pray that God will bless each and every one of you, as you leave this place, may the eyes of the Lord remain upon each and every one of you and may He take you home in peace, Amen.”
