By Emeka Blast 
Apostle Selman Reveals His Deliverance Experience in the Catholic Church
Renowned Nigerian preacher Apostle Joshua Selman, founder of Koinonia (Eternity Network International), has stirred widespread discussion after sharing a compelling testimony of experiencing divine deliverance during a visit to a Catholic church in Lagos. The revelation, made during a sermon titled “The Power of Encounter” at Koinonia Abuja on August 17, 2025, has gone viral, amassing over 500,000 views on YouTube and igniting debates about spiritual unity across Christian denominations.
In the sermon, Selman recounted a personal experience from early in his ministry when he faced severe spiritual oppression, describing it as “a heavy yoke of darkness” that hindered his prayer life and ministry growth. “I was invited to a Catholic church in Lagos for a revival program,” Selman shared, as cited by Flashgist. “I went with an open heart, not knowing God would meet me there. During the Mass, as the priest led a prayer of deliverance, I felt the Spirit of God break the chains over my life. I was set free right there in that Catholic sanctuary.”
Selman, known for his teachings on deliverance, emphasized that the experience taught him the universality of God’s power. “It doesn’t matter the denomination—Catholic, Pentecostal, or Anglican—where the Spirit of God is, there is liberty,” he declared, referencing 2 Corinthians 3:17. He credited the Catholic priest’s anointing and the congregation’s faith for facilitating his breakthrough, urging Christians to focus on Christ rather than doctrinal divides. “I honor the Catholic Church for their reverence and discipline. That day, God used them to deliver me,” he added.
The testimony has resonated deeply, with clips circulating widely on social media. On X, @NaijaGist tweeted, “Apostle Selman’s deliverance in a Catholic church? This is powerful! God is everywhere! #Koinonia,” while @EagleEyeNG posted, “Selman’s testimony bridges Pentecostal and Catholic divides. Unity in Christ! #Deliverance.” However, some users, like @TruthSeekerNG, questioned the narrative, tweeting, “Why a Catholic church? Doesn’t Koinonia preach deliverance? Sounds like a PR move.”
The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, through spokesperson Rev. Fr. Michael Eyo, welcomed Selman’s testimony, stating to Vanguard News, “This affirms the Catholic Church’s role in spiritual liberation through the sacraments. We pray it fosters unity among Christians.” The testimony aligns with Selman’s broader teachings on deliverance, as seen in his “Complete Deliverance” series, where he emphasizes spiritual warfare and the authority of Jesus over demonic forces (Flashgist,).
Critics, however, raised concerns about theological differences, with some Pentecostal pastors arguing that Selman’s endorsement of Catholic practices could confuse followers. A Lagos-based pastor, speaking anonymously to The PUNCH, said, “Deliverance is central to Pentecostalism, not Catholicism. His testimony risks diluting our focus.” Supporters countered that the testimony promotes ecumenism, with Premium Times noting a growing trend of interdenominational collaboration in Nigeria.
Selman’s ministry, known for its emphasis on worship, miracles, and biblical truth, draws thousands weekly to Koinonia services in Zaria and Abuja. His testimony comes amid Nigeria’s spiritual revival, where economic hardships have driven many to seek divine intervention. The Catholic Church in Nigeria, with over 30 million adherents, remains a significant spiritual force, often hosting interfaith events.
