Mrs. Esther Oluwatoyin Oyefeso Celebrates 70th Birthday with Joyful Thanksgiving Service and Celebration.
Mrs. Esther Oluwatoyin Oyefeso Celebrates 70th Birthday with Joyful Thanksgiving Service and Celebration.
On October 18, 2025, a heartfelt celebration unfolded to mark the 70th birthday of Mrs. Esther Oluwatoyin Oyefeso, a revered and loving mother in the Methodist community. The event commenced around 10:30 a.m. at the Methodist Church Nigeria Remo Diocese Sagamu-Oko Circuit, with a Thanksgiving service dedicated to honoring her life, faith, and contributions.
The service opened with hymns performed by the church choristers, setting a reverent tone for the gathering. Reverend Nathaniel Olukunmi Ogundayo, the minister in charge, welcomed all attendees and articulated the purpose of the gathering: to celebrate Mrs. Oyefeso’s milestone birthday and to thank God for His grace and guidance throughout her life. The bishop of the Diocese of Remo, Reverend J. M. Bamidele Ibikunle, led a prayer, seeking divine blessings for the occasion and the celebrant.
The congregation engaged in spirited praise songs, with lively dances expressing joy and gratitude. The first Bible reading by Mr. Adesola Arinyenga, was from Psalm 34:1-20, followed by readings from Philippians 4:4-9 and Matthew 5:1-6. After these scriptures, hymn 784 was sung, leading into a sermon delivered by Reverend R. Akinlade. His message focused on appreciating God in all circumstances, emphasizing faith, connection, and gratitude. He lauded Mrs. Esther’s leadership qualities, highlighting her role as a women’s leader in the Methodist Church, and her example of love and service to others.
Reverend Akinlade encouraged attendees to stay engaged with God, remain connected with others, and develop meaningful relationships. He prayed for the family, friends, and well-wishers present, and expressed gratitude for the day’s significance. The celebrant and her family joyfully danced to the altar as offerings were collected to aid the needy, a tradition during such celebrations.Holy Communion was officiated by Reverend Nathaniel, invoking prayers for everyone and inviting Mrs. Esther to partake first. Following the communion, hymns of thanksgiving were sung, and the celebrant along with her family, danced to express gratitude.
A special musical rendition by the choir honored the celebrant, and they serenaded her with birthday songs, which she joyfully responded to.The service also included prayers for her friends, led by Reverend Nathaniel, and blessings for gifts brought for the church. Her children participated in the dedication of gifts, reaffirming their love and support. In her heartfelt vote of thanks, Mrs. Esther expressed deep gratitude for God’s mercy, her family’s support, and the presence of guests from Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, and Badagry, who traveled far to celebrate her. She acknowledged her children’s efforts in making the day memorable and thanked everyone for their prayers and good wishes.
The thankgiving service concluded with hymn 506 and a closing prayer by Reverend Nathaniel, who prayed for the success of the event, journey mercies, and that everyone present would also be celebrated in their own lives. It was a day filled with love, faith, gratitude, and community, marking a significant milestone in Mrs. Esther Oluwatoyin Oyefeso’s life.
The Celebration continued with a reception to entertain family, friends and guests which was held at the Lord Bashy Center (LBC) at Adodi Junction, Hospital Road, Sagamu.
The reception began with the arrival of the celebrant, family, and friends, who were warmly welcomed. The sister of the celebrant led the opening prayer, setting a spiritual tone for the celebration. Speeches about the celebrant followed, with the MC, Mama No Network, and a second MC giving room for others to share their thoughts. Children took the stage to speak about their loving mother, highlighting her caring nature, sacrifices, and the valuable lessons she imparted. They expressed admiration for her love and dedication.
Friends also shared heartfelt messages, describing her as a dependable confidante who offered advice and encouragement during difficult times. They praised her for her unwavering support and kindness. In-laws recounted how she extended love and warmth since joining the family, further emphasizing her caring nature. Grandchildren expressed gratitude for her nurturing care, comfort, and love, describing her as a wonderful grandmother. Mama No Network then lightened the mood with some jokes, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. A delicious menu was served to all present, creating a festive atmosphere. The highlight was the cutting of the birthday cake, where the celebrant stood in front of the cake and cut it in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. She then raised a toast to everyone, expressing her gratitude.
The celebrant responded to questions from the crowd, sharing personal insights and appreciation. She concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, thanking everyone for sharing in her special day. The celebration continued with lively dancing and more enjoyment, marking a joyful and memorable occasion for all.
