Being a keynote speech at the maiden El-Shaddai Covenant Ministries Gala Night held on Saturday, November 29, 2025 by the General Overseer, Dr. Temitayo James
Good evening, beloved saints and workers of the Most High God! Welcome to a truly special night—the El-Shaddai Covenant Ministries Gala Night!
Look around you. Do you see the faces? These are not just faces; these are the hands that have arranged the chairs, the voices that have sung in the choir, the feet that have gone on evangelism, the minds that have taught our children, and the hearts that have interceded in prayer. Tonight, we are not in the sanctuary; we are in the banquet hall, and the only order of service is to celebrate you.
My heart is full, and the first thing I must do is simply say, Thank you. From the depths of my heart, I thank you. Thank you for every hour you’ve sacrificed, every talent you’ve poured out, and every act of service you’ve done, not for the praise of men, but as unto the Lord. You are the backbone of this ministry, and what God is doing in this house is a direct result of your faithfulness.
The book of Hebrews 6:10 says, “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name…” I want you to let that sink in. God does not forget. He sees the early mornings and the late nights. He sees the sacrifices made behind the scenes. And while our ultimate reward is in heaven—a crown of righteousness that will never fade—it is not out of place for us, as a spiritual family, to pause and say, “We see you too, and we appreciate you.”
Tonight is a small token of our immense gratitude. It is our “labour of love” for your “labour of love.” We are, in a sense, following a biblical principle: to honour those who are due honour.
Now, in a few moments, we will be presenting some awards. And this is a joyful part of our evening. But I want to speak a word of grace over this room. Not everyone will walk up to this stage to receive a plaque or a certificate tonight.
But please, hear me clearly: that does not mean your contribution is any less vital. In the body of Christ, is the hand more important than the eye? Is the foot less valued than the ear? Of course not! Every part is essential for the body to function in health and power. Some roles are public, some are profoundly private, but every single one is sacred and valued by God and by this leadership. Your faithfulness in your assignment, whether seen by thousands or seen only by the Father, is what makes El-Shaddai the thriving ministry it is. You are celebrated tonight, award or not.
So, tonight, let us do exactly what we have gathered to do: let us celebrate. Let us laugh a little louder, let us eat a little heartier, and let us fellowship with a genuine joy for one another.
Thank you once again to every single person here for your heart for God’s house. And to everyone for coming out tonight to share in this celebration, thank you.
Now, let the evening of celebration and honour continue! God bless you all.
