By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode successfully concluded its Diocesan Jubilee of Hope Eucharistic Congress on Saturday, November 1, 2025, drawing a vast multitude of Priests, Religious, and Laity. The event, held at the City of the Immaculate, Aiyepe Road, Sagamu, was the centerpiece of the Diocese’s celebration of its Jubilee Year of Hope, focusing on the central role of the Holy Eucharist in Christian life.

The Congress, which commenced on Friday, October 31, 2025, offered two days of intense spiritual engagement. Attendees participated in a variety of activities designed to deepen their faith, including sacramental confession, adoration, intercessory prayer, praise and worship, and counseling sessions.

The celebration culminated with the Closing Mass on November 1, observed as the Solemnity of All Saints.

In his impactful homily, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Onabamiro stressed the profound connection between the Eucharist and sanctity. He reminded the faithful that they “meet Jesus in the Holy Eucharist” and urged a greater focus on spiritual nourishment. “As we work very hard to take care of our body, we must work harder to take care of our souls,” Fr. Onabamiro stated. He added that to emulate the saints celebrated that day, the congregation must “hunger for Jesus in the Eucharist.”

Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, Bishop of the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, shared his closing remarks, offering prayers for a renewed spiritual awakening. “We thank the Lord for sustaining us with His body and blood,” the Bishop said. He emphasized the mission of every baptized person, declaring, “It is through me and through you that Jesus will transform the world.”

Bishop Adesina prayed that the Congress would be a turning point: “It is my prayer that this Eucharistic Congress will begin a new thing in our life. When Jesus dwells in us, new things happen.”

He concluded by challenging the faithful to maintain a constant awareness of Christ’s presence, stating that the Holy Eucharist should “cease to be the bread only locked up in the tabernacle” and that the faithful must continue to recognize that “Jesus is present in the Eucharist.”

The Congress was described by participants as a “spiritually enriching” event, setting a hopeful and renewed tone for the remainder of the Jubilee Year.