Renowned Nigerian gospel singer and pastor, Nathaniel Bassey, has shared a deeply emotional story about his family’s journey through pain and faith. The “Imela” crooner revealed that his wife, Sarah Bassey, suffered five miscarriages — including an ectopic pregnancy — during the same period he was hosting his globally celebrated worship event, the Hallelujah Challenge.
Speaking during a midnight session of the ongoing Hallelujah Challenge on Friday, Bassey said the trials occurred while he was still leading praise and worship sessions online, despite the emotional toll.
“There were moments during the Challenge when we lost a pregnancy, and no one knew,” he confessed. “I would still go live to worship, dance, and praise God. My wife may have to forgive me for sharing this, but I want people to know that faith works even in pain.”
He recounted a particularly heartbreaking moment when his wife was hospitalised due to an ectopic pregnancy. Despite the distress, he continued ministering to thousands online.
“She was in the hospital, and I would rush from there to lead worship, then return to her bedside. The nurses attending to her would tell me, ‘Tonight’s worship was powerful.’ It happened not once, not twice — but five times,” Bassey said.
The Hallelujah Challenge — which runs this year from October 7 to 31 — is a 25-day online worship and prayer movement that gathers thousands of Christians worldwide at 11:59 p.m. daily. This 2025 edition also marks the eighth anniversary of the spiritual initiative that has touched millions of lives since its inception.
Married since 2013, Nathaniel and Sarah Bassey have long been seen as one of gospel music’s most inspiring couples. Yet, behind the uplifting songs and fervent worship, the couple has endured private struggles many never imagined.
Despite these painful experiences, Bassey said his faith in God never wavered. He used his story to encourage believers facing similar trials to hold firmly to their faith and trust in God’s timing.
“When people ask, ‘Where is God?’ I tell them, I understand. But I also know God is faithful. One of the words He gave us during those difficult moments was, ‘Don’t give up on God,’” he said.
Concluding his message, the award-winning worship leader reaffirmed that his journey stands as living proof of divine faithfulness.
“Even in our pain, God never failed us. His promises always stand true,” he declared.
The revelation has since sparked emotional reactions online, with fans and worshippers praising the gospel singer for his transparency and unwavering devotion.