FROM PRAYER TO PROSPERITY: HOW COLLECTIVE CHURCH EFFORT COULD TRANSFORM AFRICA'S ECONOMY

Recently, while waiting for vehicle repairs, I noticed a commotion from the fourth floor of a nearby building. To my surprise, it turned out to be a church. Every Sunday, people gathered to pray and sing praise to God in the open-air, roofless space. This was unlike any church building I had seen before.

Curious, I asked around about the church's activities and learned that the congregation practiced a strong sense of solidarity. Every Sunday, they brought food to share, a tradition that quickly attracted new members. While the community spirit was commendable, it made me think beyond the religious aspect.

If Africans invested the same energy and commitment they pour into churches in their economies, we could have full control over our economic destinies. If a group can come together to establish and grow a church rapidly, they can certainly do the same for a business or industry.

I am not suggesting that people stop attending church. However, I believe that we could channel the energy and resources devoted to religious gatherings into building industries and transforming economies.

Church leaders should remember that well-being is a crucial part of their mission. Salvation may be the ultimate goal, but without addressing the immediate physical needs of their followers, it becomes a hollow promise.

Living Faith Church - Winners Chapel Ota Ogun State Nigeria.

What is the point of building the largest church or driving luxury cars when many of your congregation struggle to pay hospital bills or afford daily meals?

Followers should not attend church with blind faith. Remember, no church can define us as Africans, and God is not restricted to any single institution.

It's time we balance our spiritual commitments with practical actions to improve our lives and communities. Let's open our eyes and see that our collective strength lies not just in faith but in action.