Sep 6, 2023, 11:03 AMPastor Sorin Petrof, PhD
Ilford Central Dedicates its Building
On the 2nd of September 2023, a vibrant spirit of unity and devotion filled the halls of Ilford Central Seventh-day Adventist Church as almost 200 people gathered for an extraordinary event - the long-awaited dedication of their cherished sanctuary. This momentous occasion culminated decades of faith, perseverance, and community bonds.
The rich history of Ilford Central SDA Church dates back to 1930 when, after a series of spirited evangelistic meetings held in a local cinema, 36 souls were baptized. These early believers formed the core of this enduring spiritual haven. The congregation's journey continued as they acquired their current venue, a former synagogue, in 2012. Today, the building is a testament to their unwavering faith, fully paid for and ready to be consecrated.
The celebration of this divine service was a joyful acknowledgement of their remarkable achievement. Dedicated ministers were guiding the congregation on this sacred day who have been an integral part of the Ilford Central community. The officiating ministers included Pastor Thomas Gill, the resident minister; Pastor Samuel Ouadjo, the BUC Ministerial Association Director; and Pastor Michael Mbui, the SEC Personal Ministries Director. Pastor Humphry Walters, a member of Ilford Central and former SEC president; Pastor Harrison Mburani, former minister of the Ilford Central; and Pastor Sorin Petrof, the SEC Communication and Media Director, were also present for the occasion.
The event's significance extended beyond the church community, with Adam Holmes, a councillor from the Redbridge Council, in attendance. He warmly introduced the Mayor of Redbridge, Councillor Jyotsna Islam, who expressed gratitude for being part of such a joyous occasion. Her heartfelt speech concluded with a sincere "Thank you for inviting me, and I hope it won't be the last time I can join you."
Pastor Ouadjo delivered a powerful sermon based on a passage from God's response to Solomon's prayer (2 Chronicles 7: 14), emphasizing the importance and pre-eminence of personal and collective dedication to the Lord's mission. With enthusiasm, he transitioned to the pivotal moment of the service, inviting the board members and trustees to step forward for the solemn act of dedicating the sanctuary.
In closing, Pastor Mburani left the congregation with a heartfelt message, reminding everyone that "God has built His church to magnify His glory." Pastor Gill seized the opportunity to express gratitude to participants, visitors, guests, and members for making this event so inspiring. He invited all to remain for a shared meal, fostering the bonds of community and faith that had brought them to this extraordinary day.
This dedication ceremony was not just a celebration of bricks and mortar but a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and dedication. Ilford Central Seventh-day Adventist Church is now a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for all seeking spiritual growth and unity. The debt-free achievement marks a new chapter for the Ilford congregation. Their dedication service was a time to rejoice in God's faithfulness over many decades.
On the 2nd of September 2023, a vibrant spirit of unity and devotion filled the halls of Ilford Central Seventh-day Adventist Church as almost 200 people gathered for an extraordinary event - the long-awaited dedication of their cherished sanctuary. This momentous occasion culminated decades of faith, perseverance, and community bonds.
The rich history of Ilford Central SDA Church dates back to 1930 when, after a series of spirited evangelistic meetings held in a local cinema, 36 souls were baptized. These early believers formed the core of this enduring spiritual haven. The congregation's journey continued as they acquired their current venue, a former synagogue, in 2012. Today, the building is a testament to their unwavering faith, fully paid for and ready to be consecrated.
The celebration of this divine service was a joyful acknowledgement of their remarkable achievement. Dedicated ministers were guiding the congregation on this sacred day who have been an integral part of the Ilford Central community. The officiating ministers included Pastor Thomas Gill, the resident minister; Pastor Samuel Ouadjo, the BUC Ministerial Association Director; and Pastor Michael Mbui, the SEC Personal Ministries Director. Pastor Humphry Walters, a member of Ilford Central and former SEC president; Pastor Harrison Mburani, former minister of the Ilford Central; and Pastor Sorin Petrof, the SEC Communication and Media Director, were also present for the occasion.
The event's significance extended beyond the church community, with Adam Holmes, a councillor from the Redbridge Council, in attendance. He warmly introduced the Mayor of Redbridge, Councillor Jyotsna Islam, who expressed gratitude for being part of such a joyous occasion. Her heartfelt speech concluded with a sincere "Thank you for inviting me, and I hope it won't be the last time I can join you."
Pastor Ouadjo delivered a powerful sermon based on a passage from God's response to Solomon's prayer (2 Chronicles 7: 14), emphasizing the importance and pre-eminence of personal and collective dedication to the Lord's mission. With enthusiasm, he transitioned to the pivotal moment of the service, inviting the board members and trustees to step forward for the solemn act of dedicating the sanctuary.
In closing, Pastor Mburani left the congregation with a heartfelt message, reminding everyone that "God has built His church to magnify His glory." Pastor Gill seized the opportunity to express gratitude to participants, visitors, guests, and members for making this event so inspiring. He invited all to remain for a shared meal, fostering the bonds of community and faith that had brought them to this extraordinary day.
This dedication ceremony was not just a celebration of bricks and mortar but a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and dedication. Ilford Central Seventh-day Adventist Church is now a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for all seeking spiritual growth and unity. The debt-free achievement marks a new chapter for the Ilford congregation. Their dedication service was a time to rejoice in God's faithfulness over many decades.
