BEHIND THE PULPIT BY BAYO ONUWAJE
BEHIND THE PULPIT
A Short Story By BAYO ONUWAJE
© Bayo Onuwaje 2025
All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of the owner.
Published Online By:
Bayo Onuwaje Concepts (BOC)
09022769608
SYNOPSIS OF THE STORY
In a church community, Sister Ada's secret relationship with Quadry, a Muslim, is exposed by Brother Solomon, the choirmaster, out of jealousy. Ada is forced to choose between her faith and her relationship, ultimately deciding to prioritize her faith and end things with Quadry. She then develops feelings for Brother Samuel, a close friend of Brother Solomon's, leading to further conflict. Brother Solomon's actions are discovered, and he is demoted from his position as choirmaster, ultimately leaving the church in anger. The short story explores themes of love, jealousy, faith, and relationships within the church community.
BEHIND THE PULPIT
This story centers on the members of a church in the southern part of Nigeria. It features the choir group, particularly the choirmaster, Brother Solomon, and one of his female backups, Sister Ada.
As the church's youth prepared for their convention, the evangelism unit produced leaflets to invite people. During the procession, Sister Ada met Quadry, a longtime boyfriend who had collected a flier. Ada hadn't planned to invite him since he was Muslim, but Quadry promised to attend the convention.
Brother Solomon felt uncomfortable seeing Ada with Quadry and reported their relationship to the pastor. The pastor called Ada for clarification, and she confirmed her relationship with Quadry, explaining they had known each other since high school.
Ad space available
According to the church's doctrine, young members were discouraged from dating outside their faith. The pastor and elders warned Ada to end her relationship with Quadry. Ada obeyed but sought to know who had informed the church committee. Brother Samuel, the talking drummer and Brother Solomon's close friend, revealed that Brother Solomon had reported Ada due to jealousy.
Ada got angry but forgave Brother Solomon after Brother Samuel's plea. She started ignoring Quadry, who eventually stopped attending church. Ada then confided in a Deaconess about her interest in Brother Samuel. The Deaconess encouraged her to pursue a relationship.
Brother Solomon discovered Ada's new interest and felt disappointed. He tried to sabotage their relationship but failed. The church elders eventually chastised Brother Solomon for his behaviour and demoted him from choirmaster. He left the church in anger, and peace was restored in the choir group. The convention ended well.
The end.
Ad space available
LESSONS FROM THE STORY
1. Jealousy can lead to harmful actions
Brother Solomon's jealousy of Ada and Quadry's relationship led him to report their relationship to the pastor, causing trouble for Ada. This shows how jealousy can cloud judgment and lead to hurtful behavior.
2. Blind adherence to rules can be problematic
The church's strict doctrine about not dating outside the faith led to Ada being forced to choose between her relationship and her faith. This highlights the potential consequences of rigid rules and the importance of considering individual circumstances.
3. Secrets and gossip can damage relationships
Brother Samuel's revelation of Brother Solomon's jealousy to Ada created tension and conflict. This shows how secrets and gossip can harm relationships and trust.
4. Forgiveness and self-control are important
Ada's decision to forgive Brother Solomon and focus on her faith demonstrates the value of forgiveness and self-control in difficult situations.
5. Love and relationships can be complex
The story highlights the complexities of love, relationships, and personal feelings. It shows how people's emotions and desires can conflict with their obligations and expectations.
6. Consequences of actions
Brother Solomon's actions ultimately led to his demotion and departure from the church. This serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences and can impact our relationships and opportunities.
7. Importance of communication and understanding
The story suggests that better communication and understanding between characters could have prevented many conflicts. This emphasizes the value of open and honest communication in relationships.
Ad space available
More exciting stories will be shared here. For questions, suggestions, recommendations, partnership opportunities, or sponsorship inquiries, please contact us.
We look forward to your support:
1539054968
ACCESS BANK
Onuwaje Adebayo Martins
Comments
Post a Comment