The Catholic Church has expressed support for Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God following his apology for his previous teachings on tithe, emphasizing that it does not advocate the idea of money as a requirement for salvation.
Rev Fr Anthony Godonu, the Director of Social Communications for the Lagos Catholic Archdiocese, commended Adeboye for his apology, stating that it was the appropriate course of action.
Pastor Adeboye had acknowledged his error in stating that tithing was a prerequisite for entrance into heaven.
In retracting his earlier statement, Adeboye clarified that salvation is attained through holiness and living in harmony with others.
In response, Godonu highlighted that Adeboye's earlier teachings did not align with those of the Catholic Church.
In a statement, Godonu expressed, "In light of Pastor Enoch Adeboye's repentance over his statement made three years ago, wherein he asserted that those who do not pay tithes will not enter heaven, and his subsequent retraction of the statement, I believe it was the right thing to do. This indicates that he has found enlightenment and truth. John 8:32 states that 'you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.' Pastor Adeboye has discovered the truth, and it has set him free. The Catholic Church does not advocate the concept of money as a prerequisite for attaining salvation, but rather emphasizes fulfilling the will of the Father and following Jesus Christ. Embracing your challenges with gratitude and praise and carrying your cross daily are the principles we promote in the Catholic Church. I am pleased that a prominent pastor in Nigeria has stepped forward to acknowledge the truth at this juncture in his life. If his aspiration is genuinely to reach heaven, what more does he need to convey than the truth? I extend my congratulations to him for embracing the truth and shining a light for the public."