By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The Catholic community of St. James Major Parish in Prichard, Alabama, received a special visitor on Sunday, August 17, 2025: Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, Nigeria. His pastoral visit to the Archdiocese of Mobile was a powerful expression of global communion and a highlight for parishioners, who organized a warm reception in his honor.

The visit, described as “worthwhile” by those in attendance, included two Masses where Bishop Adesina was warmly welcomed by the pastor, Fr. Godwin Imoru, a priest of the Ijebu-Ode Diocese. Fr. Imoru delivered a profound homily, drawing on the day’s readings to deliver a message of conviction and courage in the face of injustice.

In his homily, Fr. Imoru focused on the example of the prophet Jeremiah and the foreigner Ebed-Melech, who both took a stand for truth despite facing significant risks. He reminded the congregation that an idol is not just a physical image but “anything that stands between us and God,” and that injustice can be both active (direct involvement) and passive (silence in the face of wrongdoing). Fr. Imoru challenged the faithful to be modern-day witnesses, emphasizing that Christians are called to stand for “love, truth, justice, and peace, even when there is a prize to pay.”

He connected this message to Jesus’ words about division, explaining that truth itself can be a dividing force. “The question is,” Fr. Imoru asked, “are we ready to pay the prize?” He concluded by encouraging the faithful to keep their “gaze fixed on Jesus” to overcome distractions and sin, reminding them that while words may be forgotten, where they stand will not be.

Community Embraces Bishop with Joy and Fellowship

Following the Mass, parishioners of St. James Major hosted a vibrant reception to honour Bishop Adesina. The event was a testament to the close bond between the pastor and his community, as well as a beautiful display of international Catholic solidarity. The visit strengthened the spiritual ties between the Nigerian diocese and the parish in Alabama, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.