A charismatic Christian megachurch with global influence, led by the late TB Joshua.
Temitope Balogun Joshua, more commonly known as TB Joshua, was a Nigerian pastor, televangelist, and the founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), a Christian megachurch based in Lagos, Nigeria. Joshua was born on June 12, 1963, and passed away on June 5, 2021. He was known for his large social media presence, humanitarian work, and the global outreach of his ministry, which attracted thousands of international visitors to its services.
Formation and Growth
The Synagogue Church of All Nations was established following Joshua’s claim of receiving a divine anointing and covenant from God to start his ministry. SCOAN quickly grew to become Nigeria’s biggest tourist attraction and a prominent destination for religious tourists in West Africa. The church’s popularity was so significant that it positively impacted local businesses and increased the number of international flights to Lagos.
Humanitarian Efforts
TB Joshua was also known for his extensive humanitarian work, including rehabilitation programs for militants, donations to communities, and scholarships for students. His efforts extended globally, with aid sent to disaster-stricken areas like Haiti and Ecuador. Joshua’s influence wasn’t limited to humanitarian efforts; he was actively involved in football by founding My People FC and supported various athletes in their careers.
Influence and Controversies
Joshua’s influence extended beyond religious circles into politics, where he was seen as a peacemaker and a significant figure in African politics. He was recognized with numerous awards for his humanitarian and peace efforts. Despite his acclaim, Joshua’s ministry was not without controversy, including debates over his prophetic claims and the doctrinal practices of SCOAN. His international crusades and visits to countries around the world attracted both large crowds and criticism from some religious leaders and communities.
image via PunchNG
