By Fr. Charles Soyege

January 17, 2025 marked a historic day for the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode as the Divine Mercy Pastoral Region was inaugurated. The ceremony took place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kajola. The Holy Mass was presided over by the Chief Shepherd of the diocese, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina.

Prior to the inauguration ceremony, the Juridical Vicar, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Oguntade, addressed the congregation on the significance of the celebration and the roles of the Pastoral Region and the Episcopal Vicar. In his remarks, Fr. Oguntade highlighted the importance of this new development in the life of the diocese, emphasizing that the establishment of the Divine Mercy Pastoral Region is a strategic move aimed at fostering greater collaboration, cooperation, and evangelization among the faithful. Fr. Oguntade explained that the Pastoral Region is a canonical erection that brings together several deaneries to promote more effective pastoral care and coordination. He noted that the Episcopal Vicar, who will oversee the region, will play a crucial role in promoting the pastoral mission of the Church in the region.

In the homily, Bishop Adesina reflected on the life of St. Anthony of Egypt, the founding father of monastic life. He emphasized the importance of perseverance and faith, citing the example of the paralyzed man and his friends in the Gospel of Mark 2:1-12. The bishop noted that the friends’ determination and collective faith led to the healing of the paralyzed man, demonstrating the power of community and faith in overcoming challenges.

Bishop Adesina encouraged the faithful to embody the mercy of Christ, actively reaching out to those suffering, marginalized, or burdened by sin. He emphasized the need to break through barriers and create a nurturing environment where individuals can encounter God’s love. The bishop reminded the congregation that the Divine Mercy Pastoral Region is called to be a beacon of hope, healing, and mercy in the diocese.

The Bishop also announced the appointment of Very Reverend Fr. Patrick Kunde Balogun as the Episcopal Vicar for the Divine Mercy Pastoral Region. He expressed his confidence in Fr. Balogun’s ability to lead the region successfully, citing his experience, knowledge, and devotion to the growth of the diocese.

The Divine Mercy Pastoral Region is a newly formed parochial entity that brings together the Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Igbo, and Iloti deaneries. This strategic union is expected to foster greater collaboration, cooperation, and evangelization among the faithful in these areas.