Reverend Dr. Samuel Odubena received a Bachelor of Arts in Theology (First Class Honor) and
a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies/Languages from Wesley International Theological Seminary,
Nigeria (Now West Africa Theological Seminary, Lagos, Nigeria). He obtained a Post Graduate
Diploma in Religious Studies from the University of Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, and a Ph.D. in
Intercultural Studies (Evangelization Concentration) from Asbury Theological Seminary,
Wilmore, Kentucky. He is a trained hospital chaplain from Indiana University Health and a
certified professional life coach from Light University of the American Association of Christian
Counselors (AACC).
Dr. Odubena has been serving in the ordained ministry since 1996. He has served in various
pastoral, academic, and managerial capacities within the Body of Christ, including facilitator and
leader for Northwest District Rural Churches Working Together and member of Northwest
District Clergy Renewal and Connections Operational Team. He is presently a member of West
Central Plains District Implementation Team and the senior pastor of Main Street United
Methodist Church, Peru, Indiana.
Throughout his pastoral ministry, Samuel has consistently and unapologetically remained a
follower of Christ, who believes in Christian holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit. He is
known for his deep commitment to prayer, discipleship, teamwork, youth empowerment,
community outreach, church revitalization, and mission. He believes that everyone who is a
member of the Christian community is called to be a participant in the mission of Christ, so he
creates an environment where members of his congregation can discover and maximize their
gifts. Samuel views people and situations with optimism. Hence, he provides spiritual care with
his presence, empathy, and listening. He is a very loving person. He loves his congregation so
much that he carefully expounds God’s Word when he preaches or leads the weekly Bible study.
He has also been faithful in the administration of the sacraments. He exhibits a healthy balance
between his family and the ministry.
Rev. Dr. Odubena is confident that his proven track record in pastoral ministry, administrative
skills, and community engagement will enable his congregation to strengthen relationships
within and outside the walls of the church. He has received several prestigious awards, including
a Certificate of Official Recognition presented to him on October 6, 2025, by the Mayor of Peru
Indiana for his continued ecumenical efforts, Christian leadership, community engagement, and
promotion of oneness and unity in Miami County and the City of Peru Indiana.
Samuel is married to Christianah Odubena—a master’s degree graduate in Public Financial
Management from the University of Kentucky. Their marriage is blessed with three wonderful
children: Favour, Tobi, and Peace. His family loves the Lord and happily joins him in doing
ministry by using their God-given gifts. Samuel loves pickleball, soccer, visitation, reading,
writing, gardening, and watching Family Feud. His email address is
samuelo@perumainstreet.com