Concerned about growing doctrinal drift, the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim has warned its members against embracing teachings not rooted in the original foundations of the church.
The church leadership expressed displeasure over what it described as a disturbing trend of unauthorized practices among some members, calling for a return to the doctrines established by its founder, St. Moses Orimolade Tunolase. While acknowledging the remarkable growth of the church over the past century, leaders emphasized that deviation from sound doctrine remains a major challenge.
Speaking at the founder’s family home in Okorun Quarters, Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, on Wednesday, Professor Aderotimi Oyetakin, Secretary of the church, issued the warning as part of events marking the start of the church’s centenary celebration.
Oyetakin urged all Cherubim and Seraphim branches across the globe that have adopted unapproved teachings to return to the original practices laid down by Orimolade. He stressed that the founder’s doctrine remains the only sure foundation for preserving the integrity of the church and protecting members from spiritual exploitation.
He recounted how St. Moses Orimolade, in response to the need for structure, formally registered the church in 1930 under the name “The Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim” with registration number 316. This historic move, he said, gave rise to the emergence of numerous C&S churches worldwide.
“While we celebrate this growth,” Oyetakin noted, “we are equally troubled by the emergence of alien practices such as the use of red, black, or multicolored candles—rituals never associated with Baba Orimolade. Additionally, the use of the so-called Ark of the Covenant (Apoti Eri) and blood-based rituals are clear deviations from our spiritual heritage. We strongly advise those involved in such acts to desist immediately.”
He further stated that as part of the centenary anniversary, the church is partnering with security agencies to expose and prosecute those using the church as a cover for ritualism and fraud.
Oyetakin reiterated the need for all C&S churches to embrace the authentic doctrines left by Orimolade, noting that his teachings offer the only safeguard against doctrinal corruption and manipulation.
He also emphasized that the mother church remains committed to fostering unity within the global C&S family, but without compromising the historical truth that St. Moses Orimolade is the sole founder of the church. He dismissed recent attempts to rewrite the church’s origins, declaring them baseless and belated.
According to him, Orimolade’s ministry ushered in an era of divine healing, deliverance, spiritual gifts, and speaking in tongues—hallmarks that defined his mission and legacy.
To commemorate its 100th anniversary, the church has lined up a series of events including a world congress, revival meetings, crusades, symposiums, musical concerts, and community development initiatives.
Also speaking at the event, the Owa-Ale of Ikare-Akoko, Oba Adeleke Adegbite, called on the church to ensure that the centenary celebrations benefit the Orimolade family and the Ikare community. He described St. Moses Orimolade as a true divine messenger and commended the C&S church as a spiritual foundation from which many modern Pentecostal churches in Nigeria have emerged.
“Orimolade wasn’t just called by God—he was sent with a purpose,” the monarch stated. “I encourage the church to uphold unity and stay committed to the founder’s vision and mission.”
