Nigeria: Cleric urges Christians to shun religious tourism

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Apostle John Okoriko, the founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Akwa Ibom State, has called on Nigerian Christians to abandon their yearly pilgrimages to Jerusalem, arguing that God’s presence is not limited to one location. According to Okoriko, religious tourism is a futile exercise born out of ignorance, as God’s presence can be felt in all places.

Speaking during the monthly interactive service at his church, Okoriko emphasized that the biblical miracles of God in Israel were manifestations of heavenly places that were transient and peculiar to the people of that time. He stated that Christians do not need to physically travel to Jerusalem to experience God’s presence, as heaven and earth are connected.

Okoriko advised Nigerians to focus on building a personal relationship with God and experiencing heavenly places in Christ, rather than embarking on pilgrimages to Jerusalem. He described the holy land as a place that has been taken over by war, killing of innocent people, and religion, making it an unsuitable destination for Christians seeking spiritual growth.

The cleric explained that heavenly places are not physical locations but rather a spiritual realm that can be accessed through faith. He emphasized that God’s presence is universal and can be felt in all places, making pilgrimages unnecessary. Okoriko encouraged Christians to seek God’s presence in their daily lives, rather than searching for it in a specific location.

Okoriko’s message is a call to Christians to re-evaluate their priorities and focus on building a deeper relationship with God. By doing so, they can experience the true meaning of heavenly places and live a life that is pleasing to God. The cleric’s words serve as a reminder that God’s presence is not limited to one location, and that Christians can experience His presence in their daily lives through faith and prayer.