Remembering a Giant of Faith: Daughter Reflects on the Life and Legacy of Prophet Joseph Ayodele Babalola
The legacy of Prophet Joseph Ayodele Babalola, the founder of Christ Apostolic Church (C.A.C.), is being celebrated anew through the candid recollections of his youngest daughter. In a recent interview, she shared intimate details about her father's unwavering dedication, his wife's supportive role, and the spiritual principles that defined their family life.
According to his daughter, Prophet Babalola was a man of extraordinary devotion, known for his diligent, humble, and compassionate nature. She highlighted his intense prayer life, noting that while many associate him with loud, powerful prayers, he also practiced quiet, personal communion with God. She described a structured prayer routine in their home, with bells ringing throughout the day to call the family to prayer at 6 a.m., 9 a.m., 12 p.m., 3 p.m., 6 p.m., and 9 p.m. She also confirmed his legendary marathon fasts, including a mandatory 40-day fast each year.
The interview also shed light on the often-misunderstood role of his wife, fondly known as "Mama." While she wasn't always seen in the public eye, she was the bedrock of the family and the ministry. Her daughter explained that in that era, women were expected to manage the home and raise the children, which Mama did tirelessly. She was also a shrewd businesswoman, selling beans and other goods to support the family. This became particularly crucial after the prophet's passing in 1959, a period during which she miraculously prospered, helping the family navigate financial challenges.
Finally, the daughter addressed persistent rumors about her mother's alleged involvement in witchcraft. She unequivocally dismissed these claims, attributing them to a lack of understanding and envy from those who saw the family's resilience and believed they should have suffered more after the prophet's death. She described her mother as a tough, hardworking, honest, and prayerful woman who instilled strong values in her children. The interview painted a picture of a man who was deeply committed to God and a wife who was his steadfast, unsung partner in ministry.
