Simon SENAYA

The Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan has released its schedule of activities for the upcoming 2025 World Communication Week, themed "Share with Gentleness the Hope that is in Your Hearts." The week-long observance promises a series of engaging and spiritually enriching events aimed at highlighting the importance of communication in spreading the Gospel message in today's world.

The programme will commence on Sunday, May 25, 2025, with a special Opening Mass held simultaneously in all parishes across the Archdiocese. This unified celebration will set the tone for the week, emphasizing the gentle, yet powerful nature of sharing Christian hope.

On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, the Archdiocese will engage with the wider community through a Press Conference, where His Grace Archbishop Gabriel Abegunrin will address the selected press on the importance of the Communication Week at the Chancery by 10am. Conference is strictly by invitation.

A key highlight of the week will be the Media Training for Parish Media Teams, Youths, Announcers, Public Relations Officers and other interested persons, scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025. The theme of this crucial training is "Digital Discipleship: Using Social Media to Share the Gospel Message." Recognizing the increasing influence of digital platforms, this workshop will equip participants with the necessary skills and strategies to effectively utilize social media in evangelization and community engagement.

The workshop will be held at the Pope John Paul II Hall, Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Catholic Church, University of Ibadan. Participation is highly encouraged for at least five members from each Parish. A registration fee of ₦3,000 per participant applies. The event will feature a distinguished Guest Speaker, Sir Felix Fapohunda, a renowned expert in communication and digital media.

The 2025 World Communication Week will culminate on Sunday, June 1, 2025, with a Thanksgiving Mass and Reception to be held at St. Mary Catholic Cathedral, Oke Padi, Ibadan. This celebratory event will offer an opportunity for the Archdiocese to give thanks for the gifts of communication and the dedicated efforts of those who work to spread the Good News. The Archbishop will be blessing the tools of the media professionals on this day, and Chief Executives of Media houses, Oyo State Commissioner of Information, NUJ, NAWOJ and other media professionals have been invited to grace the occasion.

Parishioners especially members of CAMPAN, CAEAN and other media personnel across the Archdiocese are encouraged to actively participate in the various events planned for the 2025 World Communication Week. This dedicated week serves as a timely reminder of the power of communication in fostering faith, building community, and sharing the hope that resides within our hearts with gentleness and conviction.