The Metropolitan Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin has commended the efforts of Catholic Artists and Entertainers Association of Nigeria (CAEAN), Ibadan Archdiocese for always making people in the Archdiocese and beyond happy with their commendable entertainment. The commendation was part of His Grace’s message to the Jubilee of Artists, featuring: Arts, drama, poetry and cultural dance at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Mokola, Ibadan on Saturday, 15th February, 2025.

The Archbishop, who was represented at the event by the Vicar General, V. Rev. Fr. Gregory Oyelami stated that the Church has given CAEAN space during the Jubilee year of Hope to further show-case their talents of making people to relax as he observed that many people find it difficult to relax due to the economic situation of the country. “It is a pity that we don’t relax very well in this part of the world due to economic situation.” His Grace noted.

The Chief Shepherd appreciated yearly efforts of CAEAN at Pentecost and Advent Pilgrimages of the Archdiocese; its efforts at the 75th birthday celebration of the Chief Shepherd and most especially the days spent at Iwere - Ile in Iwajowa LGA of Oyo State (The Home town of His Grace) to shoot a film in honour of His Grace and many others.

In attendance at the Jubilee of Artists included: The Pastoral Secretary, V. Rev. Fr. Richard Omolade; the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Anthony Omolade, Vicar for Religious, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Kouijzer, SMA; Sister Religious, Rev. Sr. Lucy; Laity President, Mr Felix Oladokun; AICMO President, Mr Felix Adoroh, represented by Mr Pius Osakwe; AICWO Laity President, Lady Clara Yemi Oke; CAEAN National President, Amb. (Mrs) Edith Isidahomen; Msgr Joseph Idowu; Rev. Fr. Joseph Akinbinu; Rector of SS Peter & Paul Major Seminary, Bodija, Ibadan, V. Rev. Fr. Anthony Igbekele; Director of Social Communication, Ibadan Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Anthony Akiwowo; priests and religious, just to mention but a few.

Welcoming all to the event earlier, the Pastoral Secretary, V. Rev. Fr. Richard Omolade had thanked God for the various gifts and talents of members of CAEAN which they often use to make people happy and add beauty to their lives and urged all to relax and enjoy the day to the glory of God.

Still on the Jubilee Year of Hope, the Pastoral Secretary said a lot of programs have been scheduled for the Jubilee of Hope, among which is the Jubilee of Artists. He added that the door of hope is always open and that as long as we are Catholics, we should not lose hope, hence the different days for the Jubilee are opportunities to reflect on our lives. “Things are hard, but are we going to lose hope? Or Japa. Even at that, circumstances is almost becoming tensed. We have to sit at home. The Lord is with us in this journey. Let us make others too, to taste the joy of this Jubilee.” Fr. Omolade stated.

Since the day was meant to relax, people were entertained throughout the program by individuals and groups. To set the ball rolling was ‘Ewi’ by Daniel Kehinde Fasany; a play to showcase power of Christ through ‘just a touch’; performance by National Musium of Arts from Pastoral Institute; drama by CAEAN and Ibadan Kids to show the need to be hopeful and determined, no matter the situation we found ourselves.

Cultural Group from SS Peter & Paul Major Seminary, Bodija, Ibadan also performed to the delight of all as well as Ikumapayi group with ‘Bata’ dance and Mr Soji Gbelekale with a show that emphasized obedience in life.

The National President of CAEAN, Amb. (Mrs) Edith Isidahomen gave a vote of thanks at the event. She appreciated the Archbishop, priests, religious and laity in different capacities that attended the program and commended their contributions towards the success of the event.

The event came to a close with the Prayer for the Jubilee, while the Vicar for Religious, Fr. Wilfred Kouijzer, SMA gave the closing prayer and final blessing before groups photographs and refreshment.