Duruigbo: My parents’ contributions shaped my calling
The Senior Pastor, The Gospel House Church, Ago Okota, Lagos, Onyema Duruigbo, has said that his parents played critical roles in helping him navigate his way to the Lord’s vineyard, as well as discover his purpose in life.
The lawyer-turned-pastor specifically noted that his mother served as a compass during his formative years, consistently pointing in the right direction even when factors that could distract one from focusing on the destination abound.
Duruigbo, who shared his thoughts with journalists in Lagos, during his 60th birthday celebration said: “Immediately, after the civil war, Christianity was introduced to us. My mother, being a devoted Christian would drag us to church, whether we were willing to go or not. That was in early 1972. While in school, I faced immense challenges, including peer pressure. But, I told God to preserve, and allow me to live my life until I finished secondary school so that I would fully serve Him. After my secondary education in 1981, I remembered the vow that I made to God, and started planning to fulfil it. In pursuit of this, I followed one of my friends to the All Christian Fellowship in 1982, where I gave my life to Christ, and since then, I have not looked back.”
The senior pastor continued: “My being a Christian today is because of my mother. While growing up, I would sometimes wake up by 2 am only to find my mother praying and crying for souls that were headed in the wrong direction. She was always interceding for others. And today, her children and grandchildren are dedicated to God as a result of what we learnt from her.
“I also learnt a lot from my father, especially in the area of being patient with people. I watched him handle intricate cases as a leader, and all the parties involved were happy. We did not enjoy opulence as a result of the Nigerian Civil War, but we are a closely knitted family. My parents had four children — two boys, and two girls. I am the third child and second son.”
Duruigbo also appreciated other Christian leaders including, Pastor William Kumuyi, Bishop Humphrey Erumaka, Kenneth Hagin and Tommy Lee Osborn, whom he said have impacted and are still impacting on him.
Duruigbo, also decried the negative effect of the Nigerian Civil War and its impact on his family, in describing his journey so far said: “It has been founded on grace and mercy. We all err, but I depend on God’s mercy to survive. Many times, I find myself not living up to His expectations, but He upholds me. So, it’s been a wonderful experience. He’s my sustaining grace and His grace is sufficient for me. Outside Him, there is nothing.”
The Orlu, Imo State-born cleric urged Nigerians, especially the youths to be patient and be who God wants them to be in life.
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