The General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor  W.F  Kumuyi, has urged Christians to seek a genuine spiritual encounter rather than observe religious tradition as the church’s 2026 Easter Retreat begins.
‎
‎In a message shared ahead of the global programme, Kumuyi emphasised that participants should attend with a clear spiritual purpose, stressing that the retreat centres on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
‎
‎“Do not come merely to observe a tradition; come to encounter the Living Christ,” he said, describing the gathering as “a divine appointment where the same power that rolled away the stone can roll away the burdens of your life.”
‎
FOCUS ON CHRIST’S RESURRECTION
‎
The retreat, themed “The Glory of Christ’s Resurrection,” runs from April 2 to April 6, 2026, across various centres worldwide.
‎
‎Kumuyi explained that the significance of the programme lies in its focus on the Cross, describing Jesus as “the Lamb of God who was slain for our transgressions and raised for our justification.” He referenced the biblical passage in Epistle to the Philippians, highlighting Apostle Paul’s desire to know Christ and experience “the power of his resurrection.”

He added that attendees should expect transformation, assuring participants that their lives “will not remain the same.”

‎
‎CALL FOR DEEPER SPIRITUAL COMMITMENT
‎
‎Similarly, the Ondo State South Overseer of the church, Pastor Stephen Buraimoh, called on members to approach the retreat as a period of spiritual reawakening rather than convenience or leisure.
‎
‎Speaking during a combined pre-retreat service in Ondo, he encouraged full participation, noting that earlier members of the church demonstrated strong commitment and discipline during such gatherings.
‎
‎“Early Deeper Lifers were rugged; they were not seeking convenience because they understood that God appoints a time and place to meet with His people,” he said.
‎
‎ ‘A TIME TO SEEK GOD DILIGENTLY’

‎‎Pastor Buraimoh described Retreat as a spiritual exercise requiring believers to withdraw from routine activities and seek God intentionally. Drawing from biblical examples, he cited Jacob’s encounter with God at Jabbok and the Queen of Sheba’s journey in search of wisdom.

According to him, the retreat period should be used for:

• Spiritual regeneration and transformation
• ‎ Restoration of lost Christian experiences
• Revival and renewed usefulness
• Recovery of lost blessings and privileges
• Reaffirmation of foundational truths
• Readiness for Christ’s return

‎He stressed that God rewards those who diligently seek Him, urging believers to dedicate the period to prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal.

‎
GLOBAL GATHERING FOR REVIVAL
‎
‎The Easter Retreat is a major annual programme of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, drawing participants from across Nigeria and other parts of the world. The event is known for its focus on revival, healing, deliverance and salvation.
‎
‎Church leaders say this year’s edition aims to inspire a deeper connection with Christ and rekindle spiritual commitment among believers worldwide.