John Kayode AYODELE

 

The Cathedral Administrator of St. Patrick Catholic Cathedral, Ado-Ekiti, Rev. Fr. Benedict Bimbo Joseph, has called on members of the Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) to emulate the virtues of St. Joseph, their Patron Saint, in their daily lives as Christian fathers and leaders.

 

Fr. Benedict made this appeal during the 2026 Fathers’ Day celebration held at the Cathedral, an occasion set aside to honour the sacrifices, responsibilities, and spiritual roles of fathers across the world.

 

In his homily, Fr. Benedict emphasized that fatherhood is not merely a biological role but a sacred office entrusted by God, requiring discipline, humility, responsibility, and unwavering faith.

 

He urged the congregation, particularly the men, to always acknowledge God as the ultimate source of life and purpose, noting that true fulfilment in fatherhood can only be achieved through a life rooted in God’s will. Drawing inspiration from St. Joseph, he encouraged fathers to be protectors, providers, and moral guides within their families and society at large.

 

In a related development, the Assistant Cathedral Administrator, Rev. Fr. Michael Agbemuko, congratulated members of the Catholic Men Organisation on the occasion. He commended their steadfast commitment to the Church and applauded their invaluable contributions to family life and community development.

 

The celebration commenced with a solemn Holy Mass attended by parishioners and dignitaries from various sectors. It later transitioned into a colourful reception held at the parish playground, where members and guests interacted in a spirit of unity and thanksgiving. A major highlight of the reception was the launching of the maiden edition of the Parish’s Almanac, a publication aimed at strengthening communication and coordination within the parish community.

 

Dignitaries present at the event included the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi; Chairman of the Cathedral English Mass Sub-Council, Dr. Simeon Ogunnusi; President of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), St. Patrick Cathedral, Mrs. Felicia Adamolekun; and the Cathedral Youth President, Mr. Peter Taiwo Adelusi, among others.

 

Speaking at the event, the NUJ Chairman praised the leadership and members of the Catholic Men Organisation for their dedication and service. He also commended the Catholic community for its consistent contributions to moral development and societal progress.

 

On behalf of the organization, the Parish CMO Chairman, Mr. Augustine Abiodun Olofe, expressed deep appreciation to the Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix Femi Ajakaye, the Cathedral Pastoral Team, and the entire parish community for their unwavering support, prayers, and encouragement. He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to upholding Christian values and promoting responsible fatherhood.

 

The 2026 Father’s Day celebration at St. Patrick Catholic Cathedral was not only a moment of recognition but also a call to a renewed commitment among men to live exemplary lives, guided by faith, integrity, and service to humanity.