CSC Team, Oyo Diocese

The Catholic Diocese of Oyo witnessed a deeply spiritual and historic celebration as Priestly and Diaconate Ordinations were held at St. Stephen Catholic Church, Apaara, Oyo, on April 11, 2026.

 

The solemn Mass began at 9:47 a.m., presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, alongside numerous priests, deacons, religious, and faithful who gathered to witness and celebrate the sacred moment.

 

The liturgy commenced with a solemn entrance procession, followed by the Kyrie and a joyful Gloria, as the congregation expressed gratitude to God in songs of praise. The Liturgy of the Word was then proclaimed, setting a reflective tone for the sacred rites that followed.

 

In a profound and spiritually enriching homily, the Dean of Iseyin Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Martin Badejo, centered his message on the essence of priesthood as a divine calling rooted in service and sacrifice. “No one takes this honor upon himself, but only when called by God.”

 

Drawing inspiration from Christ, particularly His act of washing the feet of His disciples, he emphasized humility as the foundation of true priestly leadership. “Priesthood is not about status, but about selfless service to God and His people.”

 

He described the priesthood as both a gift and a mystery—undeserved yet freely given—and one that draws the priest into the very life and mission of Christ. The ordinands were further charged to live as witnesses of the Resurrection, bringing light and hope into a world often marked by darkness.

 

Addressing contemporary realities, the homilist cautioned against pride, materialism, and the pursuit of popularity, urging the new priests to remain grounded in prayer, discipline, and faithful service. He also stressed the importance of continuous formation and collaboration within the Church, while encouraging closeness to the youth.

 

Following the homily, the ordination rites commenced with the candidates making their promises of commitment. The Litany of Saints was solemnly chanted, after which the Bishop laid hands on the candidates, signifying apostolic succession, and offered the Prayer of Ordination.

 

The newly ordained priests were anointed with the Sacred Chrism and presented with bread and wine, symbolizing their role in the Eucharistic sacrifice. They were then welcomed into the priestly fraternity through the Sign of Peace, as joy filled the congregation.

 

The celebration continued with the Liturgy of the Eucharist, after which the newly ordained led the thanksgiving, offering blessings to the Bishop, clergy, their families, and the faithful.

 

Speaking after the ordination in an interview hosted by Eegunjobi Rosemary Oluwafikayomi and Oyegbile Anthonia opeyemi

 

Seminarian Augustine Emmanuel described the moment as deeply inspiring. “This ordination is a profound one for us. It shows us the importance of the priestly life and the diaconate ministry our brothers have received today.”

 

Also speaking, Rev. Fr. Peter Ojeniyi reflected on the formation and impact of priesthood, noting that authentic preparation begins with personal witness. “To prepare others for this life, one must first live a life of service. When people see it, they are encouraged to follow God and serve in His vineyard.”

 

He added that the ordination is a blessing to the Church: “We are grateful that God has given us new shepherds. It is always a joy to see young people offer their lives in service to God.”

 

In his closing remarks, Bishop Badejo expressed gratitude to God for the gift of new priests and deacons, congratulating them and their families.

 

He charged the newly ordained to remain faithful and committed, reminding them that their lives now belong entirely to God. He also delivered a strong message to young people, calling them to embrace integrity and purpose.

 

“Young people have the capacity to give their lives for something positive—through integrity, honesty, and self-giving, we can change our society.”

 

The Mass concluded with a final blessing at 2:18 p.m., marking a day filled with grace, joy, and renewal for the Diocese.

 

The celebration stands as a powerful reminder of the Church’s enduring mission and God’s continual call to raise shepherds after His own heart—men dedicated to service, sacrifice, and the transformation of society.