By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

This took place on 12th October 2024 at St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral Ijebu-Ode as the Cathedral was filled with joy and gratitude as three revered Missionary Priests marked significant milestones in their priestly ordination. Very Rev. Fr. John Patrick Ngoyi CICM celebrated his 40th anniversary, while Very Rev. Fr. Tunde Lawrence Alabi CSSP and Very Rev. Fr. Peter Oyenugba MSP marked their 25th anniversaries.

The momentous occasion, organized by the host Bishop, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina; Bishop of Ijebu-Ode Diocese, was attended also by Most Rev. Felicien Ntambie, Most Rev. Leonard Kasanda, Most Rev. Placide Lubamba, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin of Ibadan Archdiocese and multitude of Priests was a testament to the priests’ unwavering dedication to their faith and service.

In his homily, Fr. Patrick Balogun emphasized the importance of leaving a lasting legacy, urging the celebrants to impart their accumulated wisdom to younger generations. He praised their faithfulness amidst challenges, saying, “Remaining present in God’s service is a testament to your commitment.” . Facing the celebrants, he says “It’s the accumulated wisdom that you’ve had for years that you should pass into the younger ones.”

Bishop Adesina expressed gratitude for the successful celebration, honoring the missionaries’ tireless efforts in Ijebu-Ode Diocese. “We use this occasion to honour the missionaries who have worked tirelessly in Ijebu-Ode Diocese. This is a way to begin the Mission Sunday celebration in our Diocese as all the celebrants today are missionaries.” He highlighted the celebrants’ remarkable impact, noting, “Fr. John Patrick has touched the people not just with God’s word but with the fecundity of his witness, this is the same for Fr. Alabi and Fr. Peter that we celebrate”.

The ceremony concluded with a reception, where clergy, family and friends gathered to rejoice and honor the remarkable achievements of these devoted servants of God.