Rev. Fr. Peace JEMIBOR

The Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan held its annual Archdiocesan Get-Together programme on Friday, 9th January, 2025, bringing together clergy, religious, and lay faithful in an atmosphere of gratitude, reflection, and joyful fellowship.

The event commenced at about 5:05 p.m., with an opening prayer led by Rev. Fr. Charles Olabamiji, OSJ, who committed the gathering into God’s hands. This was followed by welcome remarks by the Archdiocesan Laity Council President, Mr Oladokun Olujide Felix, who warmly received all present and highlighted the importance of the annual get-together as a moment of unity and thanksgiving within the Archdiocese.

The Archbishop of Ibadan, His Grace, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, delivered the central address of the evening. In his remarks, the Archbishop first remembered priests and religious of the Archdiocese who passed on in the year 2025, offering prayers for the repose of their souls and acknowledging their selfless service to the Church.

He also gave highlights of major events that marked the year 2025, both within the Archdiocese and in the universal Church. These included the celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope; the election of a new Pope, Pope Leo XIV; and the celebration of 10th, 20th, and 25th priestly ordination anniversaries of some of priests in the Archdiocese. He further referenced notable local developments such as the installation of the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, diaconate ordination of three of our seminarians, the official opening of the Archdiocesan College of Nursing Sciences, the opening of the Archdiocesan Cemetery and Memorial Park, as well as reflections on the new tax reform.

In his pastoral message, Archbishop Abegunrin emphasized the need for peace, security, and the sanctity of human life, calling on all faithful to uphold human dignity and become instruments of peace in the society. He concluded his address with an admonition, saying: “As we stand at the threshold of this New Year, I invite you to walk together in unity, deepen your prayer life and commit anew to faith, service and integrity.”

The programme also featured the cutting of the cake, led by Lady Clara Oke, symbolizing gratitude and shared joy. Cultural dance performances by children of Sacred Heart, Gegelose, and the youths of St. Brendan, Ikumapayi, added colour and excitement to the evening, drawing applause from the audience.

Participants were treated to food and drinks, after which a wine toast was proposed by Rev. Sr. Esther Amowe, DHS. The Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr Gregory Oyelami, gave the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the Archbishop, organizers, and all who contributed to the success of the programme. The event formally concluded with a closing prayer led by Rev. Sr Glory Michael, CP.

The evening ended on a joyful note as participants danced and celebrated together. The Archdiocesan Get-Together was indeed an eventful occasion, reinforcing the spirit of unity, gratitude, and shared mission in the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan.