By: Theresa Donatus, Uyo.
Apostle John Okoriko, founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church, has described fasting and prayer as powerful tools for spiritual elevation and physical healing.
He made this assertion during a seminar held at the Life Tabernacle, Eket branch of the church, themed “Miracles of Fasting and Prayer.”
Addressing attendees, Apostle Okoriko stated that while fasting may reduce physical energy, it significantly enhances spiritual sensitivity. “When you lose physical strength during fasting, you gain spiritual strength,” he said.
He emphasized that even in medicine, doctors sometimes advise patients to abstain from food to aid recovery, noting that nature itself promotes fasting through seasonal rhythms.
“If you don’t set aside time to fast and pray, nature may enforce it through illness,” he added.
On the physical benefits, the cleric explained that fasting cleanses the body of toxins. “It’s a time to detoxify. Water helps flush out these toxins through urine and defecation,” he said.
He also drew parallels with the animal kingdom, noting that wounded animals instinctively abstain from food during healing.
Clarifying misconceptions, Apostle Okoriko said that true fasting should last at least for 24 hours. “Skipping breakfast isn’t fasting. For a fast to impact the body, it must be at least 24 hours,” he noted.
Referencing Matthew 17:21, he stressed that some challenges in life can only be overcome through fasting and prayer. But he however, cautioned against fasting in unsafe environments, such as bush, forest, mountains etc, warning that it may attract mosquitoes and other insects that may cause poor health risks and other distractions could also undermine the experience.
The church leader announced that a global week of fasting and prayer would be observed across all Solid Rock Kingdom Church branches from August 24 to 31, 2025. He urged members and visitors to attend, assured participants that “miracles, healing, and signs will follow.”
When asked if fasting has limits, Apostle Okoriko responded, “Fasting has no limits; we are the ones who place limits. The true battle is among men, not with demons.”
Also speaking at the event, Evangelist Mrs. Eka Okoriko urged believers not to fear fasting, saying it is a divine key to restoration. “Fasting helps us recover all we’ve lost, both physically and spiritually. It prepares us for the light after the darkness,” she said.
