Shocking Church Auction: Outrage as Worship Turns into Bidding War over Candle Sold for ₦1.5 Million in Celestial Church [VIDEO]

 

A moment of worship took a dramatic and unexpected turn at the Celestial Church of Christ, Ephphata Parish, when a prophet stunned the congregation by putting a large candle up for auction. The candle, which was described by onlookers as “giant,” was eventually sold for a jaw-dropping ₦1.5 million.

The event, which unfolded during Sunday service, was captured on video and later posted on TikTok by a user with the handle @yourariesqueenofficial. The footage quickly went viral, sparking widespread debate and criticism on social media. The video begins with the prophet announcing the start of bidding, opening the floor at ₦500,000. Excitement and surprise filled the room as the bidding escalated in real-time, with church members reportedly participating until one individual secured the candle for ₦1.5 million.

The video’s caption, laced with disbelief, read: “A giant candle was sold today at Ephphata parish. Omo, I was wowed. It was later sold for ₦1.5 million. Celestial with doings. Hmmmm.”

Although the sale seemed celebratory to some inside the church, online reactions painted a different picture. Critics voiced concerns over the commercialization of spiritual objects during what is traditionally supposed to be a solemn religious gathering.

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), were abuzz with commentary ranging from sarcasm to outright outrage. One user, @Ayoola0527, remarked, “If it works so effectively, those who want to sell it would have kept it for themselves.” Another, @Omobolajipounds, commented on the nature of the event, writing, “Pastor dey auction candle inside church.”

The prophet’s actions raised broader questions about the shifting dynamics in religious settings across Nigeria. What used to be spaces of worship and reflection are increasingly becoming entangled with financial theatrics that leave many believers confused or even disillusioned. The public outcry underscores the growing divide between traditional religious expectations and emerging practices that seem to place financial gain above spiritual intent.

A particularly viral response came from @Olakennyd, who lamented, “Pastors can never be broke in Nigeria. We’re so gullible here. They will never believe their luck.” His sentiment was echoed by @fobecyril, who added, “If I hear say no money for 9ja again I go cvrse una.” These reactions reflect the frustration among Nigerians dealing with economic challenges, yet witnessing staggering amounts exchanged within religious circles.

One of the more satirical takes came from @Davey_Mamman, who referenced biblical events to highlight his disbelief. “When Jesus dey scatter market dey flog people then.. e sure me say na those white garment people him mean,” he said. Similarly, @Kiksman added his own critique, noting, “Orisirisi. Naso church turn auction center.”

While there is no official word yet from the Celestial Church of Christ leadership or the Ephphata Parish regarding the viral clip, the public pressure is mounting. Observers are calling for clarification and, in some cases, condemnation of what they describe as a misuse of religious authority.

Not everyone online condemned the buyer, though. Some speculated about the identity and motive of the individual who bought the candle. @your_Favxparte commented, “I know say na one yahoo boy go buy am put for house,” implying that the purchase may have had other non-religious motivations. Meanwhile, @Asarailu took a more spiritual approach, stating, “Jesus scatter market wey dem dominate god temple that year, if him come back see wetin dem Dey do inside church now, him go just weak.”

The entire event has reignited a national conversation around the role of churches in society and the level of accountability religious leaders should uphold. With Nigeria’s economic hardships pressing down on the average citizen, such ostentatious displays of wealth within churches only add to the tension between faith and finances.

As of now, the church has remained silent, choosing not to release a statement on the incident or the ensuing controversy. The silence has done little to stem the tide of criticism, as many continue to demand answers about the nature of the auction and what the candle represents spiritually.

Whether the candle sale was a one-off symbolic act or part of a broader trend, it has certainly left an impression on Nigerians. For many, it serves as a stark reminder of how far modern religious practices can stray from their original purpose, particularly when money enters the sanctuary.

See the moment a candle was sold for ₦1.1 million at a celestial church. Omo, make VeryDarkMan no see this video 😭💔 pic.twitter.com/poLtUlKnL2

— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) July 21, 2025