One of the most distinctive practices of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) is walking barefoot to church—a tradition that has sparked curiosity and various misconceptions among outsiders. While some assume it's simply an imitation of the church’s founder, Rev. Pastor Samuel Bilewu Oshoffa, or a literal interpretation of biblical stories, the true significance runs much deeper.

Debunking the Myths

Over time, several false explanations have circulated regarding this practice:

• The Oversized Feet Myth: Some claim that Rev. Oshoffa had exceptionally large feet and couldn’t find suitable shoes, leading to the barefoot tradition.
• Biblical Reference: Many believe it stems solely from Exodus 3:5, where Moses was commanded to remove his sandals on holy ground.
• Following the Founder: Others assume Celestians walk barefoot simply because their leader did, turning it into tradition rather than divine instruction.

While the biblical reference holds truth, the real reasons behind this practice are rooted in spirituality, humility, and divine guidance rather than myths or convenience

The True Reasons Celestians Walk Barefoot

1. A Spiritual Fast & Act of Self-Denial

Walking barefoot is considered a form of fasting in celestial doctrine—an act of self-denial that strengthens spiritual discipline. Just as Abraham’s faith was counted as righteousness, Celestians believe that forsaking the comfort of shoes is a way to draw closer to God.

Many people associate fasting only with food, but true fasting, according to Celestial teachings, involves sacrificing earthly comforts to deepen one’s spiritual connection.

2. A Lesson in Humility

Walking barefoot serves as a reminder of humility before God. Wealth, status, or influence hold no weight in the presence of the divine. Some individuals struggle with the idea of removing their shoes, but Celestians see this as an act of submission—an acknowledgment that before God, all are equal.

3. A Reflection of Heaven’s Order

Celestial teachings emphasize that their worship mirrors the structures of heaven, where no one wears shoes. Divine visions often depict celestial beings as either barefoot or without human feet. By walking barefoot, Celestians symbolically separate themselves from worldly traditions and embrace their identity as representatives of the heavenly realm on earth.

Biblical Foundations for the Practice

The barefoot tradition aligns with multiple biblical references, reinforcing its spiritual significance:
📖 Exodus 3:5 – Moses was commanded to remove his sandals before the burning bush because the ground was holy.
📖 Joshua 5:15 – Joshua received the same instruction when encountering a divine presence.

Celestians believe their church is equally sacred, requiring reverence and purity—including the removal of footwear


Other Unique Celestial Church Practices

🔹 Prohibition of Alcohol, Cigarettes, and Pork – Members abstain from these as part of their spiritual discipline.
🔹 Observance of Purity Laws – Women must observe a seven-day separation period after menstruation or childbirth before participating in church activities.
🔹 White Garments (Sutana) – Members wear white to symbolize holiness, purity, and separation from sin.

More Than Just a Tradition

Walking barefoot in the Celestial Church of Christ is far from a random or outdated custom. Whether one fully understands the practice or not, it remains a sacred, spiritual act—one that embodies humility, faith, and a commitment to living in divine order.

It is not just about removing shoes; it’s about stepping into a higher realm of worship.