Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Biography: Global Ministry and Rhapsody of Realities
In the world of global ministry, few names are as well-known as Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. He is the founder and president of LoveWorld Incorporated, also called Christ Embassy. Based in Lagos, Nigeria, his ministry has grown into a massive network that reaches every continent. Known for his “healing school” and his deep focus on the Holy Spirit, Pastor Chris has spent over 40 years teaching that Christianity is not just a religion, but a “divine life” that anyone can experience.
Key Takeaways: Pastor Chris at a Glance
- Founding: Started Believers’ LoveWorld (Christ Embassy) in 1987.
- Family: Born December 7, 1963, in Edo State, Nigeria; father to two daughters, Carissa Sharon and Charlene.
- Global Reach: His daily devotional, Rhapsody of Realities, is the most translated book in the world after the Bible (translated into over 8,000 languages).
- Media Pioneer: Launched the first 24-hour Christian satellite network from Africa to the rest of the world.
- Net Worth (2026): Estimated at over $100 Million, based on his media empire, real estate, and publishing.
Early Life and the “Youth for Christ” Days
Chris Oyakhilome was born on December 7, 1963, in Edo State, Nigeria. He grew up in a very religious home. His father, Elder T.E. Oyakhilome, was a pioneer in the Assemblies of God Church, which meant Chris was around ministry from the day he was born. He often says he gave his life to Christ at the age of nine.
While studying Architecture at Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University), Chris started a student fellowship called Youth for Christ. This fellowship quickly became the most popular group on campus. It was here that he began to hold large “miracle meetings.” After he graduated, this small campus group grew into the global ministry known today as Christ Embassy.
The Rhapsody of Realities Revolution
One of the biggest parts of Pastor Chris’s legacy is the Rhapsody of Realities. This daily devotional was first published in January 2001. What started as a small booklet in English has become a global phenomenon.
A Record-Breaking Book
By 2026, Rhapsody of Realities has reached:
- Over 8,000 languages: It is used to reach people in remote villages and major cities alike.
- All 242 countries: There is no territory on earth where this devotional has not been distributed.
- Billions of copies: The ministry organizes “Reach Out” campaigns where millions of copies are given away for free to hospitals, prisons, and schools.
Family and Personal Life
Pastor Chris’s family has played a large role in the LoveWorld story. His brother, Rev. Ken Oyakhilome, is a senior pastor in the Houston branch, and his sister, Kathy Woghiren, leads the ministry’s music and arts department.
His Daughters and Grandchildren
Pastor Chris has two daughters from his previous marriage to Anita Ebhodaghe:
- Carissa Sharon (CSO): A famous gospel singer and songwriter. She married Phillip Frimpong in 2018. In 2021, they welcomed Pastor Chris’s first grandchild, Arielle Rachelle-Marise.
- Charlene: His younger daughter, who stays more private but remains a key part of the family’s support system.
While Pastor Chris and Anita divorced in 2016, the ministry continued to grow, and Pastor Chris has focused his energy on expanding the “LoveWorld family” across the globe.
The Power of Media and LoveWorld USA
Pastor Chris was one of the first African ministers to understand the power of the internet and satellite TV. He founded LoveWorld TV, which now has several channels including LoveWorld SAT (South Africa), LoveWorld Plus (Nigeria), and LoveWorld UK.
In 2017, he partnered with his long-time friend Pastor Benny Hinn to launch LoveWorld USA. This channel brought his “Atmosphere for Miracles” program into millions of American homes. He also created KingsChat, a social media platform designed specifically for Christians to connect without the “noise” of secular social media.
Philanthropy and The InnerCity Mission
Pastor Chris is not just about preaching; he is also known for his work with the poor. Through the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI), he runs the InnerCity Mission. This program provides:
- Free Education: Schools for children who live in poverty.
- Food Banks: Feeding thousands of families in slum areas.
- Healthcare: Providing medical checkups and medicine to those who cannot afford it.
He often tells his followers, “Every child is your child,” encouraging them to use their wealth to help the “forgotten” members of society.
Quick Facts Table: Pastor Chris Oyakhilome
| Category | Details |
| Birth Date | December 7, 1963 |
| Education | Architecture (Ambrose Alli University) |
| Key Book | Rhapsody of Realities (8,000+ languages) |
| Television | LoveWorld SAT, LoveWorld USA, LoveWorld TV |
| Headquarters | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Grandchildren | Arielle Rachelle-Marise |
| 2026 Est. Net Worth | Over $100 Million |
In this video, you can hear directly about the impact of Pastor Chris’s teachings and see the scale of his global miracle meetings.
