The Friendship Church International, FCI, Kaduna Cathedral, has successfully hosted a historic 2026 three-day conference that brought together thousands of believers for prayers, worship, teachings, and celebration of legacy.
The conference, held at the church auditorium on Samaru Air Force Road, Kakuri, Kaduna, witnessed a massive turnout of Christian faithfuls who filled the church to capacity on all three days. Delegates came from within Kaduna State and neighboring states to participate in what has been described as one of the most impactful gatherings of the year.
The conference was held under the theme "Transformation". The theme was chosen to inspire a better change and uplift the lives of people through fervent prayers, a devotional attitude and by living out the exemplary life of Jesus Christ.
The goal of the conference was to rekindle faith, promote spiritual growth, encourage moral values and challenge believers to become agents of positive change in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
A major highlight of the conference was the celebration of the 70th posthumous birthday of the founder of Friendship Church International Worldwide, the late Bishop John O. Dickson, who passed away earlier this year.
The birthday celebration was marked with solemn prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Bishop, seeking God’s eternal rest for him. It also featured the presentation of gifts to widows, elders, children and church members, alongside memorable songs of praise and thanksgiving in his honour.
In an emotional tribute, the host, Pastor Miss Esther Dickson, narrated the exemplary Christ-like life of her late husband. She said,
"The late Bishop wrote his name with a golden pen on the stone of history because he spent his entire life propagating the gospel message, teaching Christianity, and helping people, especially the less privileged, both within and outside Nigeria."
Pastor Esther described Bishop Dickson as a man whose lifestyle was memorable and would never be forgotten, not only by his immediate family and the FCI family, but by the entire body of Christ worldwide.
She appreciated all attendees for their presence throughout the three days and encouraged them to emulate the life of Bishop John O. Dickson and to keep their faith firmly rooted in Christ.
Guest speakers at the conference, Bishop Emmanuel Macjone of God Pleasers Church Worldwide delivered powerful messages centered on holiness, leadership and national development.
He preached on _Good Leadership, Obedience to Parents, Fervent Prayers and Living a Christ-Oriented Life.
In his sermon, Bishop Macjohns remembered the immense contributions of the late Bishop John O. Dickson in making the lives of people religiously and meaningfully impactful.
He noted that Bishop Dickson’s legacy in soul-winning and humanitarian service can never be overemphasized.
Reverend Freedman Ekre of Counsel Mission House, Abuja also ministered during the conference, preaching the word of God with power and authority.
Members of Friendship Church International paid glowing tributes to the late Bishop John O. Dickson. They appreciated Pastor Miss Esther Dickson for her courage, resilience, and commitment to continue the work and sacrifices of her late husband.
Deliverance sessions, counseling and intercessory prayers were also held for Nigeria, Kaduna State, families, youths and for peace and security across the nation.
On the final day, members of other churches joined the FCI Kaduna Cathedral family in a grand closing service where the word of God was preached and special prayers were offered for the church, the nation and the family of the late Bishop.
The 2026 three-day conference ended peacefully with excitement and joy. Participants left with renewed hope, spiritual empowerment and a fresh commitment to live transformed lives.
Pastor Miss Esther Dickson, in her closing remarks, thanked God for the success of the conference and urged Christians to be patriotic, productive, and to reflect Christ in all they do.
She emphasized that true transformation begins when a believer’s heart is aligned with God’s purpose and when the Church rises to be the light and salt of the world.