In a move aimed at alleviating economic hardship among its members, the Gate of Heaven Church, also known as United For Jesus Ministry, has distributed cash gifts to its members.
The event, which took place at the Church's complex in Umuagara Community of Ezzangbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi, was a direct response to the current economic challenges faced by the country.
Ndubuisi Chibueze-Agbo, the President of The Gate of Heaven Church World-Wide, explained that the funds for the empowerment came from tithes paid by the members from 2022 to date.
A total of 54 members benefited from the programme, each receiving an amount equal to their tithe paid from January 2022 to the present date.
Chibueze-Agbo emphasized that the decision to redistribute the wealth among the members was biblical and in line with Apostle Paul's teachings in 2 Corinthians 9:1-15.
He encouraged other Christian denominations to prioritize the welfare and well-being of their faithful and urged world leaders to cooperate and avoid unnecessary conflicts.
During the event, prayers were offered for peace in Nigeria and other countries facing insecurity and conflicts. The Church also prayed for God to raise leaders who would put the interest of the people first and strive for peace and unity among nations.
Senior Pastor Ebe Chukwudi expressed gratitude to God for his benevolence and to the Church and its president for impacting the lives of the congregants.
He prayed that the cash distributed would solve their basic problems and attract more wealth to the Church.
The Gate of Heaven Church's initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of faith-based organizations in supporting their members during times of economic hardship.
By redistributing the tithes, the Church not only alleviates immediate financial burdens but also encourages its members to be more self-sufficient through farming and other productive activities.