The founding of Lovesquad Church in Lagos by Pastor Kayode Oyedepo, a seasoned preacher and medical professional, highlights the city’s pressing need for churches that truly preach God’s love. The first service, which took place at 58 Opebi Road on February 16th, was the start of a ministry that was motivated by a desire to fill spiritual voids in the neighborhood.
Former Miner’s Place pastor Pastor Oyedepo revealed that he and his wife, who is a priest and a doctor, were compelled to start a new church in Lagos. He thinks that new congregations devoted to genuine love and spiritual reform are desperately needed, even with the current number of churches.
“Lagos needs the love of God that can truly change lives,” Pastor Oyedepo stated during the launch. “We need more churches that will spread this love to others.” He countered the notion of “too many churches” by citing a survey revealing that many individuals are disillusioned with the current church experience, particularly the younger generation. “They are running away from something in the world, only to find it replicated in the church,” he observed.
Pastor Oyedepo’s vision for Lovesquad Church is to “capture people with the love of God that compels us to do the right thing.” He pointed out the projected doubling of Lagos’ population in the next 15 years, highlighting the need for churches to cater to the spiritual needs of this growing population. He expressed concern about the “pollution” within some churches, making it difficult to recommend them to others.
“While some churches are doing it right, many are way off,” he said. “We need to recommend gospel-centered churches.” He emphasized that Lovesquad Church aims to be a beacon of revival, building a community of genuine believers who practice and share God’s love. “We are not perfect, but God’s love is perfect,” he asserted, clarifying that his focus is on building a localized community of love rather than a branching empire.
Bishop Abraham Olaleye, a guest speaker at the launch, echoed Pastor Oyedepo’s concerns about the state of the church. He lamented the prevalence of “motivational talks” and “how-to” messages, rather than the core message of salvation. “Something is lacking in the body of Christ,” he stated, emphasizing the need for uncorrupted preaching of the Word. “Miracles do not sustain a church; the teaching of the word of God does.” He expressed optimism that God is raising a new generation of preachers who will deliver the true gospel.
Partners throughout South Africa, Europe, and the United States sent goodwill notes to Lovesquad Church’s debut, promising to help the new ministry. Building a community of sincere believers committed to spreading and exhibiting God’s love is the church’s vision.
