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Social Communications Commission, Catholic Diocese Of Oyo, Catholic Bishop Office, Sawmill Road, Oyo (2026)

15/06/2026

‎IS ANYONE STILL IN CHARGE IN NIGERIA? BISHOP BADEJO RAISES ALARM OVER SECURITY CRISIS
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‎What sounds like a dystopian headline has become a lived reality: the killing of security officers, the intimidation of traditional rulers, and repeated school closures driven by fear of abductions.
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‎Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, has voiced a blunt and urgent concern shared by many Nigerians, asking: “…is anyone still in charge in this country where the security forces have become undetectable?”
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‎His statement reflects a deepening national anxiety over worsening insecurity and the perceived weakening of state protection.
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‎According to him, this is no longer a moment for political rhetoric or reassurances, but for decisive and visible action. He challenged leadership at all levels federal and state to confront the reality on ground, warning that continued delay only deepens public despair.
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‎He described a situation where citizens can no longer confidently rely on state security structures, leaving communities vulnerable and everyday life increasingly fragile.
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‎In his reflection, he called on divine intervention, praying: “Arise, O God, rebuild the ruins of Jerusalem. Amen.”
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‎Beyond the call for government accountability, he emphasized the need for communal responsibility. In moments where institutional protection feels weakened, he urged citizens to strengthen solidarity, protect the vulnerable, and resist isolation driven by fear.
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‎The message closes with a dual appeal: urgent governmental action and renewed collective responsibility calling Nigerians to pray, speak truth, and stand together in the face of growing insecurity.

13/06/2026

OYO DIOCESAN CYON HOLDS SUCCESSFUL DIOCESAN MEETING, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), Oyo Diocese, successfully held its Diocesan Meeting on Saturday, 13th June 2026, at St. Peter Catholic Church, Sabo, Oyo.

The meeting brought together youth members from various zones across the Diocese, providing an avenue for deliberations on matters concerning the growth, development, and welfare of Catholic youths in the Diocese.

Representatives from Oyo, Awe, Igana, Kisi, Ogbomoso, Ijio, Iseyin, and Otu-Oke Zones were present at the meeting.

The youths were warmly welcomed by the Parish Priest of St. Peter Catholic Church, Sabo, Oyo, and Dean of Oyo Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua. In his welcome address, he commended the youths for their commitment to the Church and encouraged them to remain bold, distinguish themselves positively from their peers, and serve as good examples in society through their conduct and way of life.

The gathering was graced by the presence of the Assistant Diocesan Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Alexander Onifade; the Diocesan Sister, Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Agwu; Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi, Oyo Zonal Coordinator; Rev. Fr. Francis Oyegbola, Iseyin Zonal Coordinator; Rev. Fr. Matthew Ijuo, Kisi Zonal Coordinator; and Very Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, the Dean of Oyo Deanery.

The meeting featured reports on various programmes, deliberations on diocesan youth activities, strategic planning for upcoming events, and discussions on initiatives aimed at fostering greater participation and unity among CYON members throughout the Diocese.

The gathering concluded with a call for renewed commitment from the youths of the Diocese to work collaboratively for the growth of CYON in Oyo Diocese and to strengthen youth involvement in the life and mission of the Church, as well as in nation-building.

12/06/2026

BISHOP BADEJO CALLS FOR ONE HUMANITY: EVERY CHILD DESERVES FREEDOM AND HAPPINESS

In a world often divided by race, religion, politics, social status, and national interests, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo reminds us that our common humanity must come first. Every child deserves safety, dignity, freedom, and the opportunity to flourish.

No celebration, achievement, or global event can truly be meaningful while countless lives continue to suffer from poverty, conflict, injustice, and neglect. The call to build a better world requires that economic, political, social, and spiritual realities work together in service of the human person.

As we reflect on this message, may we recommit ourselves to building a world where compassion triumphs over indifference, unity over division, and love over hatred. May God help us to see one another not as strangers, but as brothers and sisters sharing one human family.

"God arise and make us all truly our brothers' keepers!"

Let us pray, act, and work together for a more just, peaceful, and humane world.

24/05/2026

COME HOLY SPIRIT, DISPEL OUR FEARS: BISHOP BADEJO CELEBRATES PENTECOST SUNDAY AT ST. PETER, SOKU

- Michael Okeola

In a joyful celebration of Pentecost and a renewed call to Christian witness, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, celebrated the Holy Mass with the faithful of St. Peter Catholic Church, Soku, Oyo State, marking the solemnity of the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Church.

Before the commencement of the Eucharistic celebration, the Bishop warmly addressed the congregation and expressed appreciation for their steadfastness, commitment, and perseverance toward the growth and development of their Church community. He commended their dedication despite challenges and encouraged them to remain steadfast in prayer and active participation in the mission of the Church.

His Lordship further urged the faithful not to relent in praying continually for the progress of their local Church and for the growth, mission, and evangelizing work of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo.

Delivering the homily, Bishop Badejo reflected deeply on the Pentecost theme under the title: “Come Holy Spirit, Dispel Our Fears.” Drawing from the readings of the day, particularly Acts 2:1–4 and John 14:16–26, he reminded the congregation that Jesus Christ faithfully completed the mission entrusted to Him by the Father through His suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension into heaven. However, Christ’s ascension did not signify absence or abandonment but opened a new chapter in salvation history through the sending of the Holy Spirit.

The Bishop explained that Pentecost commemorates the moment the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, transforming them from fearful followers into bold proclaimers of the Gospel. Through this outpouring, the Church received both life and mission, making Pentecost rightly recognized as the birth of the Church.

Reflecting on the continuing relevance of Pentecost today, His Lordship emphasized that the Holy Spirit remains God’s enduring gift to believers—guiding consciences, strengthening faith, enlightening minds, and helping Christians remain faithful to the teachings and example of Christ.

He challenged the faithful to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit through daily prayer, sincere repentance, and active participation in sacramental life. According to the Bishop, authentic Christian living requires deliberate choices that reflect Gospel values choosing good over evil, truth over falsehood, love over hatred, and courage over fear.

Turning attention to Christian witness in modern society, Bishop Badejo encouraged believers to become responsible stewards of every opportunity and gift entrusted to them by God. Speaking on media and communication, he noted that objects and technologies themselves are not evil; rather, what matters is the intention and purpose behind their use.

Addressing particularly the younger generation, the Bishop called on young Christians to become missionaries within the digital space by transforming social media into a channel of evangelization, catechesis, hope, and truth. He encouraged them to reject content that promotes violence, exploitation, hatred, falsehood, and destruction, and instead become voices that uphold human dignity and communicate values rooted in Christ.

Drawing inspiration from the witness of Paul and Silas, His Lordship encouraged the faithful to seek the courage that comes from the Holy Spirit, especially in moments of hardship and uncertainty. He called on Christians to remain people of prayer and to work actively for freedom, justice, conversion of hearts, and peace within society.

The Bishop also reflected strongly on Christian identity and reminded the congregation that the true language of Pentecost is the language of love, unity, understanding, and reconciliation not hatred, division, revenge, or hostility. He stressed that the authentic evidence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is not merely words or external expressions but the fruits described by Saint Paul: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

As he drew the homily to a close, Bishop Badejo invited every member of the congregation into personal reflection with two profound questions:

What have I done to show that the Holy Spirit lives in me?
How have I contributed to making my family, Church, and society better?

He encouraged all present to allow themselves to be continually transformed by God so they may become instruments for building a better Church, a better community, and a better world.

23/05/2026

THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT AMONG GOD’S PEOPLE: OYO DEANERY HOLDS PENTECOST RALLY

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic faithful across Oyo Deanery came together in a remarkable display of unity, worship, and spiritual reflection on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, as the Deanery hosted its annual Pentecost Rally at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Cathedral, Oyo. Centred on the theme, “The Work of the Holy Spirit Among the People of God,” the gathering became a powerful encounter of prayer, teaching, Eucharistic celebration, and renewed commitment to Christian witness.

The rally commenced at 12:35 PM and was presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo. Present at the event were members of the clergy across the Deanery including the newly appointed Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, alongside Rev. Fr. Francis Ogunsola, Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo, Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu, Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Jolasun, Rev Fr Anthony Olanrewaju, The Cathedral Administrator Rev Fr Julius Olayinka and other concelebrating priests. Religious Sisters were also represented, including Rev. Sr. Anthony, DLLS, while the laity was strongly represented by parishioners from across the Deanery, one seminarian, catechists, altar servers, and students of St. Francis Catholic College Hostel.

The event opened with a welcome address delivered by the Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, who reflected on the meaning of Pentecost as the celebration of the manifestation of the Holy Spirit—the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity—and the moment the Spirit descended upon the People of God to empower the Church for mission. His remarks set the spiritual tone for the entire gathering and invited participants to deepen their awareness of the continuing presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers.

Immediately after the opening session, the faithful entered into a solemn moment of Eucharistic devotion as the Blessed Sacrament was exposed for adoration. The first session of Benediction was led by Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu, drawing participants into a period of silence, reverence, and spiritual attentiveness.

The devotional atmosphere continued with the recitation of the Holy Rosary, led by Gidado Marcellina and Ojeleye Monica from Christ the King Catholic Church, Isokun, Oyo. This was followed by a special Novena to the Holy Spirit and an uplifting session of praise and worship which filled the Cathedral with songs of thanksgiving and expectation.

One of the major highlights of the rally was the Pentecost Talk delivered by Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo on the rally theme. In a detailed and deeply scriptural reflection, he described the Holy Spirit as the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, equal with the Father and the Son in divine authority and majesty. Drawing references from both the Old and New Testaments, he explained how the Holy Spirit has remained active throughout salvation history.

He referenced the Spirit’s empowering presence in the Old Testament and reflected on the Holy Spirit’s role in the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the life of the Church. He reminded participants of Christ’s promise of the Comforter and emphasized that through the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, Christians enter into a personal participation in the life and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Reflecting on the fruits of the Holy Spirit as taught in Scripture, Fr. Ojo encouraged the faithful to pursue lives marked by charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, long-suffering, gentleness, modesty, self-control, and chastity. He emphasized that the Spirit empowers believers not only to love and serve God but also to face trials with courage, pray sincerely, live holy lives, preserve unity within the Church, and proclaim Christ boldly in the world.

The talk transitioned into an intense session of intercessory prayer led by Rev. Fr. Francis Ogunsola, during which moments of spontaneous worship, reflection, and communal prayer created an atmosphere of deep spiritual encounter. The session concluded with Benediction led once again by Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu.

The celebration later progressed into the Holy Mass, presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo and concelebrated by the attending priests. The liturgy reflected the joy and solemnity of Pentecost as the congregation participated actively through the readings, responses, hymns, and prayers.

In his homily, His Lordship reflected extensively on the active presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church and individual believers. He described the Spirit as Teacher and Comforter who assists Christians especially in moments when human words fail and prayer becomes difficult. He reminded the faithful that authentic Christian life demands constancy and faithfulness regardless of circumstances.

The Bishop further reflected on the relationship between spiritual power and humility, emphasizing that true encounters with the Holy Spirit do not produce pride but deepen humility and service. Speaking on spiritual gifts, he encouraged participants to recognize that God distributes different gifts according to His will and that these gifts must always be directed toward service, evangelization, and the building up of the Church.

He reassured the faithful that God never withholds the gift of His Spirit from those who sincerely seek Him and concluded by offering special prayers for teachers, instructors, and all who contribute to the formation of faith across the Diocese.

Following the homily, the celebration continued into the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the Prayers of the Faithful coordinated by Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi. The offertory procession reflected the joy of the gathered Church and culminated in the reception of Holy Communion.

At the conclusion of the Mass, a combined Thanksgiving procession was held before the official Vote of Thanks delivered by the Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, who expressed gratitude to the Bishop, clergy, religious communities, and faithful from every parish whose participation contributed to the success of the rally.

In his closing remarks, Bishop Badejo officially acknowledged and introduced Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua as the new Dean of Oyo Deanery and gave special commendation to the students of St. Francis Catholic College Hostel for their notable presence and participation.

The Pentecost Rally concluded with final prayers and the Apostolic Blessing from His Lordship, leaving participants spiritually refreshed and reminded that the mission of Pentecost continues wherever believers allow the Holy Spirit to guide, renew, and strengthen the Church.

23/05/2026

THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT AMONG GOD’S PEOPLE: OYO DEANERY HOLDS PENTECOST RALLY

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic faithful across Oyo Deanery came together in a remarkable display of unity, worship, and spiritual reflection on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, as the Deanery hosted its annual Pentecost Rally at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Cathedral, Oyo. Centred on the theme, “The Work of the Holy Spirit Among the People of God,” the gathering became a powerful encounter of prayer, teaching, Eucharistic celebration, and renewed commitment to Christian witness.

The rally commenced at 12:35 PM and was presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo. Present at the event were members of the clergy across the Deanery including the newly appointed Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, alongside Rev. Fr. Francis Ogunsola, Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo, Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu, Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Jolasun, Rev Fr Anthony Olanrewaju, The Cathedral Administrator Rev Fr Julius Olayinka and other concelebrating priests. Religious Sisters were also represented, including Rev. Sr. Anthony, DLLS, while the laity was strongly represented by parishioners from across the Deanery, one seminarian, catechists, altar servers, and students of St. Francis Catholic College Hostel.

The event opened with a welcome address delivered by the Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, who reflected on the meaning of Pentecost as the celebration of the manifestation of the Holy Spirit—the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity—and the moment the Spirit descended upon the People of God to empower the Church for mission. His remarks set the spiritual tone for the entire gathering and invited participants to deepen their awareness of the continuing presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers.

Immediately after the opening session, the faithful entered into a solemn moment of Eucharistic devotion as the Blessed Sacrament was exposed for adoration. The first session of Benediction was led by Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu, drawing participants into a period of silence, reverence, and spiritual attentiveness.

The devotional atmosphere continued with the recitation of the Holy Rosary, led by Gidado Marcellina and Ojeleye Monica from Christ the King Catholic Church, Isokun, Oyo. This was followed by a special Novena to the Holy Spirit and an uplifting session of praise and worship which filled the Cathedral with songs of thanksgiving and expectation.

One of the major highlights of the rally was the Pentecost Talk delivered by Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo on the rally theme. In a detailed and deeply scriptural reflection, he described the Holy Spirit as the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, equal with the Father and the Son in divine authority and majesty. Drawing references from both the Old and New Testaments, he explained how the Holy Spirit has remained active throughout salvation history.

He referenced the Spirit’s empowering presence in the Old Testament and reflected on the Holy Spirit’s role in the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the life of the Church. He reminded participants of Christ’s promise of the Comforter and emphasized that through the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, Christians enter into a personal participation in the life and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Reflecting on the fruits of the Holy Spirit as taught in Scripture, Fr. Ojo encouraged the faithful to pursue lives marked by charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, long-suffering, gentleness, modesty, self-control, and chastity. He emphasized that the Spirit empowers believers not only to love and serve God but also to face trials with courage, pray sincerely, live holy lives, preserve unity within the Church, and proclaim Christ boldly in the world.

The talk transitioned into an intense session of intercessory prayer led by Rev. Fr. Francis Ogunsola, during which moments of spontaneous worship, reflection, and communal prayer created an atmosphere of deep spiritual encounter. The session concluded with Benediction led once again by Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu.

The celebration later progressed into the Holy Mass, presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo and concelebrated by the attending priests. The liturgy reflected the joy and solemnity of Pentecost as the congregation participated actively through the readings, responses, hymns, and prayers.

During the Liturgy of the Word, the readings and chants were rendered with devotion, leading into the homily delivered by Bishop Badejo.

In his homily, His Lordship reflected extensively on the active presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church and individual believers. He described the Spirit as Teacher and Comforter who assists Christians especially in moments when human words fail and prayer becomes difficult. He reminded the faithful that authentic Christian life demands constancy and faithfulness regardless of circumstances.

The Bishop further reflected on the relationship between spiritual power and humility, emphasizing that true encounters with the Holy Spirit do not produce pride but deepen humility and service. Speaking on spiritual gifts, he encouraged participants to recognize that God distributes different gifts according to His will and that these gifts must always be directed toward service, evangelization, and the building up of the Church.

He reassured the faithful that God never withholds the gift of His Spirit from those who sincerely seek Him and concluded by offering special prayers for teachers, instructors, and all who contribute to the formation of faith across the Diocese.

Following the homily, the celebration continued into the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the Prayers of the Faithful coordinated by Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi. The offertory procession reflected the joy of the gathered Church and culminated in the reception of Holy Communion.

At the conclusion of the Mass, a combined Thanksgiving procession was held before the official Vote of Thanks delivered by the Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, who expressed gratitude to the Bishop, clergy, religious communities, and faithful from every parish whose participation contributed to the success of the rally.

In his closing remarks, Bishop Badejo officially acknowledged and introduced Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua as the new Dean of Oyo Deanery and gave special commendation to the students of St. Francis Catholic College Hostel for their notable presence and participation.

The Pentecost Rally concluded with final prayers and the Apostolic Blessing from His Lordship, leaving participants spiritually refreshed and reminded that the mission of Pentecost continues wherever believers allow the Holy Spirit to guide, renew, and strengthen the Church.

21/05/2026

ONE SPIRIT, ONE CHURCH, ONE MISSION: OYO DEANERY GATHERS IN IWARE FOR PENTECOST OUTREACH AND SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic faithful of Oyo Deanery gathered in an atmosphere of prayer, evangelization, and joyful fellowship on Thursday, 21st May 2026, as St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Iware, under St. Patrick Parish, Fiditi, hosted the much anticipated Pentecost Outreach. Built around the theme, “The Work of the Holy Spirit Among the People of God,” the outreach became far more than a scheduled deanery activity; it unfolded as a living witness of the Church’s mission, a celebration of unity, and a renewed encounter with the presence of the Holy Spirit among God’s people.

The event drew together a remarkable assembly of clergy, Religious Sisters, and faithful parishioners from across the entire Deanery. Present at the outreach were Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, Dean of Oyo Deanery; Rev. Fr. Julius Olayinka, Cathedral Administrator; Rev. Fr. Benjamin Jolasun, Host Parish Priest; Rev. Fr. Thomas Popoola, Guest Speaker and Homilist; Rev. Fr. Leo Eke; Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu; Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo; Rev Fr. Anthony Olanrewaju; Rev. Fr. John Alayande; Rev. Fr. Gabriel Adeleke; and Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi, alongside numerous Religious Sisters and lay faithful whose presence filled the venue with enthusiasm, devotion, and a visible sense of Christian communion.

The outreach began with an energetic evangelization exercise that immediately set the tone for the day. Rather than remaining within the church premises, participants embraced the missionary spirit of Pentecost by taking the Gospel directly into the community. Priests, religious sisters, and parishioners formed groups and moved through different parts of Iware in an Evangelization Walk, visiting homes and engaging residents with messages of hope, faith, repentance, and the enduring love of Christ. Through songs, personal encounters, prayers, and conversations, the outreach reflected the identity of the Church as a people sent forth to proclaim the Good News and make Christ present in everyday life.

Following the evangelization exercise, participants returned to the church and entered into a period of spiritual preparation through the recitation of the Holy Rosary and the Novena to the Holy Spirit. The atmosphere shifted into deep reverence and expectation as the faithful united in prayer, seeking the guidance, renewal, and transforming grace of the Holy Spirit before the celebration of the Eucharist.

The spiritual climax of the outreach came with the celebration of the Holy Mass, where the gathered faithful offered thanksgiving to God and reflected deeply on the mystery and power of Pentecost. Delivering the homily, Rev. Fr. Thomas Popoola preached extensively on the theme of the day, offering a rich reflection titled “The Works of the Holy Spirit Among the People of God.” His message drew from Scripture and pastoral teaching to remind the congregation that the Holy Spirit is not merely an abstract idea or symbolic presence but the living and active Person of the Blessed Trinity who continually works within the Church and in the lives of believers.

Beginning from the promise of Christ to His disciples and extending through the experience of the early Church to contemporary Christian life, he explained that the Holy Spirit remains central to the life of faith. He described the Spirit as the One who gives new birth through conversion and salvation, transforming hearts and making believers new creations in Christ. He emphasized that spiritual growth cannot occur apart from the action of the Holy Spirit, who leads people from sin into renewed life with God.

The homilist further reflected on the Spirit’s role as teacher and guide, explaining that understanding God’s Word and living according to divine truth becomes possible through the Spirit’s direction. He reminded the faithful that believers are not expected to rely solely on human wisdom or strength but are continually sustained by the grace of God through the Holy Spirit.

Speaking further, he explained that the Holy Spirit empowers Christians for holy living in a world filled with distractions and challenges. He noted that the Spirit grants strength to resist temptation, perseverance during difficulties, and courage to remain faithful even in moments of uncertainty. Referencing the experience of the apostles after Pentecost, he encouraged the faithful to remain open to the same divine power that transformed ordinary men into bold witnesses of Christ.

He also reflected on the fruits of the Holy Spirit visible in the daily life of believers, describing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control as practical evidence of God’s presence at work within individuals and communities. Beyond personal transformation, he highlighted the gifts of the Holy Spirit given to believers for service, ministry, leadership, evangelization, and the building up of the Church.

Fr. Popoola further reminded the congregation that the Holy Spirit remains the Comforter promised by Christ, offering peace during suffering, encouragement during hardship, and strength during seasons of discouragement. He emphasized that the Spirit also assists believers in prayer, guiding hearts and helping Christians maintain a deeper relationship with God.

Turning attention to the life of the Church, he stressed that one of the visible signs of the Holy Spirit is unity among believers. Regardless of language, background, or social differences, the Spirit draws Christians together as one family in Christ and strengthens the bonds of love, cooperation, and peace within the community of faith. He equally reflected on the Spirit’s work in convicting people of sin and leading them toward repentance and restoration, while assuring believers of God’s promises and the hope of eternal life.

As he concluded, Fr. Popoola encouraged everyone present not to treat Pentecost as merely a historical celebration but as a continuing reality. He called on the faithful to intentionally surrender their lives to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and allow God’s presence to shape their thoughts, decisions, relationships, and mission in the world.

At the end of the Mass, the Host Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Jolasun, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed heartfelt appreciation to Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, whose support and blessings accompanied the outreach despite his absence. He also extended gratitude to the visiting priests, Religious Sisters, and all parishioners who contributed to the success of the event. Special recognition was given to the King of Iware Kingdom and the Baale for their hospitality and for warmly receiving the Catholic community.

Adding his voice, the Dean, Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, conveyed the fatherly greetings and blessings of the Bishop to the faithful of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Iware, and all participants present. He prayed that the grace of Pentecost, the peace of the Risen Christ, and the continual guidance of the Holy Spirit would remain with everyone.

As the outreach came to an end, gifts, prayer books, and rosaries were distributed to participants, who departed with renewed faith, strengthened fellowship, and a deeper commitment to living as witnesses of Christ. The Pentecost Outreach at Iware closed not simply as an event completed, but as a reminder that when believers allow the Holy Spirit to work among them, the Church continues to grow in holiness, unity, and missionary zeal.

Social Communications Commission, Catholic Diocese Of Oyo

15/06/2026

13/06/2026

12/06/2026

24/05/2026

23/05/2026

23/05/2026

21/05/2026

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