By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

It was a sunny and bright day coupled with a joyous atmosphere when the people of Ijebu-Ode Diocese gathered to celebrate the 35th Priestly ordination anniversary of the Bishop; Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, with an ordination ceremony held at St. Timothy Catholic Church, Degun Ijebu-Ode, on Saturday, October 19, 2024 around 10:00am. The Bishop used the event to ordain four new priests, Rev. Fr. Benson Onuduoha, Rev. Fr. Michael Okeke, Rev. Fr. Pius Idu, and Rev. Fr. Paul Oshunsanya

Rev. Fr. Stephen Ekerin, the homilist, emphasized the importance of cautious navigation in today’s complex world. He urged the newly ordained priests to remain obedient to God, drawing inspiration from Philippians 2. “It’s not about being unaware, but being conscious of your actions and your power yet aligning with Christ’s teachings and instruction through submission to your Bishop,” he said. He added that the Bishop should continue to be a protector and to guide his flock.

The Bishop; Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina expressed gratitude to everyone involved in planning, executing and attending his 35th anniversary and the ordination ceremony. He extended special thanks to the parents of the newly ordained priests and benefactors who supported their training.

The ceremony also marked a significant milestone for the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, as Bishop Adesina announced the creation of three new Pastoral Regions. This development is expected to enhance the Diocese’s administrative efficiency and pastoral outreach. The Bishop reminded everyone that Ijebu-Ode Diocese, established in 1969, was part of the Archdiocese of Lagos and serves currently about over 82,000 Catholics in 9 Local Governments in Ogun State, Nigeria. As the influx of people increases from Lagos and other boundary towns, it is pertinent the Diocese focuses on her expansion strategy.

The first Pastoral Region is Queen of Angels Pastoral Region which covers Ogbere and Esure Deaneries. This is to be administered by Very Rev. Fr. Martin-Rita Ogunbanwo. The second is Divine Mercy Pastoral Region which covers Ijebu Ode, Ijebu Igbo and Iloti deaneries, and to be administered by Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Balogun. The third Pastoral Region is St. Gabriel Pastoral Region which covers Iperu, Sagamu and Ogijo Deaneries. It is to be administered by Very Rev. Fr. Jude Marie Ezeigbo.