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(Third from the left) CAC Oke Ayo Akuro District |
By Rachael Oke
Couples were encouraged to build their marriages on biblical
principles during a couples’ hangout organized by Christ Apostolic Church (CAC)
Oke Ayo, Akuro, Ibadan, on Monday, April 6, 2026.
The program, held at Teachers House Hall along Molete–Oke
Ado Road, Ibadan, brought married couples together for a time of fellowship,
reflection and practical teaching on sustaining healthy marriages.
In his welcome address, the host and District Superintendent
of CAC Oke Ayo, Akuro, Pastor Bosun Shokunbi, explained that the programme was
designed to create a moment of relaxation and meaningful interaction for
couples.
Recounting his childhood experience, Pastor Shokunbi
recalled how his parents often created similar moments during festive seasons
where they deliberately set aside time to interact and strengthen their bond.
According to him, the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of
the modern world has made such moments increasingly rare, depriving couples of
opportunities for communication and leisure together.
He noted that gatherings like the hangout help strengthen
relationships and promote bonding among married couples.
The guest speaker, Pastor Olubunmi Adeigbe, PhD, who spoke
on the theme “The Pillars of Marriage,” emphasized that marriage was instituted
by God and therefore must be understood according to divine principles.
He explained that marriage predates the fall of man,
stressing that anyone who desires to understand the true essence of marriage
must consult the institutor—God.
Pastor Adeigbe cautioned couples against relying on advice
from social media sources, noting that many people offering such counsel may
themselves be victims of failed marriages.
Referencing the rising cases of divorce in many Western
societies despite their high levels of education and exposure, he urged couples
to pattern their marriages according to God’s template.
Speaking on differences between men and women, he observed
that women are often wired to think about immediate needs while men tend to
engage in deeper reflective thinking, noting that understanding these
differences can help couples relate better.
He identified several key pillars necessary for a stable
marriage, including love, respect, commitment, forgiveness, trust,
communication and sexual intimacy.
On love, Pastor Adeigbe noted that love has always been part
of African values even before Western influence, adding that the Bible provides
the clearest description of love in 1 Corinthians 13.
He also encouraged men to intentionally demonstrate love to
their wives.
He stressed that respect and submission in marriage should
be mutual, urging men to respect the opinions of their wives while women
embrace submission.
He cautioned couples against attaching unnecessary meanings
to issues that could lead to conflict.
The speaker also highlighted the importance of commitment
and covenant in marriage, describing commitment as sacred.
He further urged couples to practise forgiveness and extend
grace to one another.
On trust and integrity, he advised couples not to make
promises they cannot fulfil, while emphasizing communication as a vital element
in maintaining a healthy relationship.
Pastor Adeigbe also spoke on the importance of sexual
intimacy in marriage, noting that mutual satisfaction helps sustain the
relationship.
He advised couples not to deprive one another or separate
their beds.
Also speaking at the programme, Pastor Adeigbe’s wife, Dr
(Mrs) Oluwatosin Adeigbe stressed the need for marriages to be Christ-centred.
Citing Matthew 7:24, she explained that marriages built on
Christ will remain stable, especially when obey God’s word and make Him their
first point of call when challenges arise.
She emphasized that sustaining love in marriage requires the
active participation of both partners, encouraging couples to embrace oneness,
carry each other along in decision-making, and understand each other’s unique
personalities and emotional dynamics.
The hangout also featured interactive activities including
couples’ games, dance sessions and a love feast, providing a relaxed atmosphere
for participants to interact and strengthen their bonds. The programme created
an opportunity for couples to unwind, connect with one another and reflect on
practical ways of building stronger, Christ-centred marriages.
Photos speak.
