Top 10 Memorial Fathers of Faith in Christ Apostolic Church (CAC)

Top 10 Memorial Fathers of Faith in Christ Apostolic Church (CAC)

The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) stands as a fountain of faith, revival, and prayer power that has blessed Nigeria and the global Christian community for more than a century. Behind this enduring movement are visionary fathers of faith men whose obedience, fasting, and sacrifice laid the foundation of Pentecostalism in Africa.

This piece honors the Top 10 Memorial Fathers of Faith in CAC men who lived and died for the gospel, leaving behind legacies that continue to shape generations.

Background

The Christ Apostolic Church traces its origin to 1918, when a small prayer group in Ijebu-Ode, led by devoted believers, began seeking a deeper experience of the Holy Spirit. The outpouring that followed culminated in the 1930 Oke-Oye Revival under Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, an event that transformed the spiritual landscape of Nigeria forever.

By 1942, the church officially adopted the name Christ Apostolic Church, ushering in a new era of indigenous Pentecostalism that emphasized holiness, prayer, prophecy, and divine healing. Through the tireless labors of its pioneers, CAC grew into a global movement with thousands of assemblies in over 80 nations.

1. Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola (1904–1959)

The story of CAC begins with Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, the man through whom God set Nigeria ablaze with revival fire. In 1930, during the mighty move of the Holy Spirit at Oke-Oye, Ilesa, countless miracles happened the blind saw, the lame walked, and thousands surrendered their lives to Christ.

Known for his deep prayer life and humility, Babalola spent days and nights interceding on mountaintops such as Odo-Owa, Efon-Alaye, and Erio-Ekiti. His unwavering faith and obedience turned rural Nigeria into a theatre of divine power. Today, he remains the foremost symbol of revival and holiness in CAC’s heritage.

2. Pastor David Odubanjo (1893–1943)

Pastor Odubanjo served as the theologian and organiser who gave structure to the revival. A gifted teacher and writer, he shaped the church’s doctrines and ensured that the fiery movement remained anchored in the Word of God. His administrative strength and biblical insight made him an indispensable pillar beside Apostle Babalola.

3. Oba Isaac Babalola Akinyele (1882–1964)

A rare blend of royalty and spirituality, Oba Akinyele the first Olubadan of Ibadan was a devoted CAC elder. He used his royal influence to defend and promote the young church during seasons of persecution. At a time when many kings upheld traditional worship, his bold confession of Christ marked him as a true trailblazer.

4. Pastor J. B. Sadare

Pastor Sadare’s passion for evangelism and fiery preaching made him one of CAC’s strongest voices. He travelled widely, planting assemblies and strengthening the faith of believers. Through his relentless efforts, CAC’s message of holiness and divine healing reached remote towns and villages.

5. Pastor J. O. Osanyinbi

Pastor Osanyinbi stood out for his prophetic insight and deep communion with God. As part of the church’s early leadership circle, he helped guide its spiritual direction. His keen discernment and loyalty to divine truth preserved CAC’s purity during times of doctrinal challenges and opposition.

ALSO READ: Christ Apostolic Church Set to Hold 2025 Heroes of Faith Week at Babalola Miracle Camp

6. Pastor Samuel Gbadebo Adegboyega (1896–1979)

Pastor Adegboyega combined his passion for education with a vision for leadership development. As CAC’s first General Superintendent, he established mission schools and training institutions that strengthened the church’s foundation. His integrity, discipline, and commitment to discipleship left an enduring mark on the movement.

7. Pastor Timothy Oluwole Obadare (1930–2013)

Prophet Obadare, fondly called “the blind prophet with vision,” remains one of the most influential revivalists in modern Nigeria. He founded WOSEM (World Soul Winning Evangelistic Ministry) under CAC and led large-scale crusades across Africa and beyond. His ministry reignited the evangelistic fire that began with the 1930 revival and led millions to Christ.

8. Pastor J. A. Medaiyese (1917–1997

Pastor Medaiyese was a missionary pioneer who carried CAC’s message beyond Nigeria’s borders. His groundbreaking evangelistic work in the United Kingdom birthed the first CAC assemblies in London, Manchester, and Birmingham. His vision of global revival positioned CAC as a truly international church.

9. Pastor M. O. Yusuff

Pastor Yusuff played a key role in theological education within CAC. A teacher of sound doctrine, he strengthened the curriculum of CAC seminaries and trained ministers to remain grounded in Scripture. His efforts contributed immensely to the church’s intellectual and spiritual maturity.

10. Pastor E. H. Lajide

Pastor Lajide provided stability and unity during critical seasons of transition. His calm leadership and commitment to the founding doctrines earned him the respect of ministers across generations. Through mentorship and reconciliation, he helped sustain harmony and continuity in the church.

Impact and Legacy

The collective contributions of these ten fathers form the backbone of CAC’s enduring identity. Their prayer vigils, healing crusades, and unshakeable faith birthed one of Africa’s most respected indigenous churches.

Their legacy includes:

• Founding thousands of local assemblies and missionary centers.

• Establishing the CAC Theological Seminary for pastoral training.

• Expanding into over 80 nations, carrying the revival message globally.

Beyond numbers, their real impact lies in the lives transformed by prayer, purity, and faith. Each of these men proved that walking with God requires discipline, sacrifice, and total surrender.

The fathers of faith in CAC were ordinary men who yielded to an extraordinary God. Their stories remind us that revival flows from consecration, not comfort. As today’s believers enjoy the fruits of their labor, we must carry their flame of prayer, purity, and purpose forward.

What lessons can modern Christians learn from the lifestyle of CAC’s founding fathers?

The memorial fathers of the Christ Apostolic Church have joined the cloud of witnesses, yet their voices still echo across generations. Their footprints urge us to keep preaching Christ, living holy, and igniting revival.

Content Credit: Moyosola Oni

Image Credit: Google .Com