A Life Prepared for God’s Purpose
For VSE Michael Akin Akinmaye, the journey into ministry began long before he fully understood God’s calling upon his life.
His story is rooted in a mother’s prayer. Having experienced the heartbreaking loss of three children, his mother made a solemn promise to God during her pregnancy: if she was blessed with a son, she would dedicate him to the service of the Lord.
When Michael was born, that promise became part of his family’s spiritual testimony, one that would take on deeper meaning as his life unfolded.
From a Successful Career to a Higher Calling
VSE Michael Akin Akinmaye studied mechanical engineering and enjoyed a distinguished 21-year career with Nigerian Breweries PLC, associated with the globally recognized Heineken brand.
His professional journey afforded him international exposure, including travels throughout Europe, and the opportunity to build a stable and rewarding career.
Yet even amid his professional success, he sensed that God had prepared him for something beyond his chosen profession.
His spiritual gifts had begun to manifest early in life. By the age of 15, he was already serving as a prophet within the Celestial Church of Christ.
Through years of prayer, spiritual experiences, and prophetic messages, his conviction about his calling continued to grow.
Eventually, he made the life-changing decision to leave his professional career and dedicate himself more fully to the work of God.
A Journey of Ministry and Service
In the year 2000, he formally registered as a Shepherd in the Celestial Church of Christ.
His ministerial journey took him through several parishes across Lagos, Ibadan, and Ondo State, Nigeria, where he served under experienced spiritual leaders and grew in pastoral responsibility.
Through years of dedication, he rose to the position of Circuit Head, gaining invaluable experience in church leadership, spiritual guidance, and shepherding God’s people.
Those experiences would ultimately prepare him for a new chapter of ministry in the United States.
The Birth of Agashadua Parish
After relocating to Indianapolis, Indiana, VSE Michael Akin Akinmaye continued faithfully in ministry while seeking God’s direction for his next assignment.
Through prayer, visions, and spiritual reflection, he became convinced that God was leading him to establish a new congregation.
During this season of seeking God’s will, he received the name Agashadua, which he explains as meaning “God of Victory.”
With faith and a willingness to follow God’s direction, Celestial Church of Christ Agashadua Parish was established in Indianapolis.
What began as a small gathering of believers has continued to grow into a community united in worship, prayer, and fellowship.
For him, the name Agashadua is more than a title. It is a declaration of the purpose God has given the church.
His Vision: Victory Through Christ
VSE Michael Akin Akinmaye believes that God did not call the church to victory without purpose.
At the heart of his ministry is the desire to see lives transformed through a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.
His mission is to lead souls to Christ, encourage believers to grow in their faith, and help every person who comes through the doors of Agashadua Parish discover the freedom, hope, and victory found in the Savior.
His conviction is reflected in the words of Jesus:
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
John 8:36
Today, he continues to serve with faith in God’s promises and a commitment to building a congregation where people are welcomed, spiritually nurtured, and encouraged to walk in the victory of Christ.
