Mathias ADEKPE

The Parish Laity Council of St. Michael Catholic Church Idi Ayunre, organized a one day retreat and seminar for leaders of societies and organizations in the parish. The event took place on Saturday, 29th August 2026 with the theme "CALLED TO SERVE CHOSEN TO LEAD" Mark 10:45.

The retreat and seminar started with Exposition of Blessed Sacrament, Rosary and Confession. The retreat and seminar was facilitated by Bro. Matthew Kolajo, who led the participants through discussion centred on Christian leadership, service, responsibility and commitment to the Church. He explained that Christian leadership is fundamentally about service not a position or title. Jesus teaches that whoever wants to become great must become a servant. A good Christian leaders should be patient, prayerful, honest, humble and accountable and transparency.

He also cited examples of servant leadership in the Bible, Moses teaches courage and willingness to respond to God's call even when he feels inadequate. David reminds leaders to remain humble, accept corrections and acknowledge mistakes. Also Joshua demonstrated courage, continuity and respect for the good work of those who came before us.

In his own contribution to the topic, the Parish Priest Very. Rev. Fr. Oniseitan Olatunji Matthew said leadership is not about competition but serving their members with humility and respect. He encouraged all the leaders of various societies and organizations to lead their members in a way that will bring progress to their societies and organizations.

After the talk, the participants were grouped into five different groups with topics to discuss after which representative from each group gave report from their groups.

The retreat and seminar concluded with Holy Mass which was celebrated by the Parish Priest, Very. Rev. Fr. Oniseitan Olatunji Matthew and all participants were given certificates for attending and participating at the seminar and retreat.

In his vote of thanks, the Parish Laity President Mr. Festus Alademomi gave glory to Almighty God for the success of the retreat and seminar. He also appreciated the Parish Priest for his support and encouragement to the Parish Laity Council and to all the participants that attended the Seminar and Retreat.