TO ALL PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS WORKING IN THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF IJEBU-ODE, AND THE LAY FAITHFUL
Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord:
Grace and Peace of the Lord be with you.
⦁ The Month of March: Welcome to the 3rd month of the year 2021. This month we launch ourselves fully into the season of Lent. Our Lenten journey invites us to draw closer to God through the 3 pillars of Lent: Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. During this month, we shall be celebrating the Solemnity of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary (March 19) and the Solemnity of the Annunciation (March 25). These solemnities call us to reflect on the lives of Joseph and Mary whose obedience to God brought us salvation and redemption. In the life of Joseph, we have the example of a selfless and responsible father to emulate as we celebrate the year of St. Joseph. Mary’s FIAT at the Annunciation teaches us to always surrender our will to God for he has a better plan for everyone.

⦁ Pope’s Intention for the month of March 2021: Sacrament of Reconciliation: Let us pray that we may experience the Sacrament of reconciliation with renewed depth, to taste the infinite mercy of God.

⦁ Bishop’s Intention for the month of March 2021: For Priests, Religious and Lay People: That Priests, Religious and Lay people may collaborate in service to the community without giving room to discouragement.

⦁ Lenten Reflection 2021: The Social Communications Commission of the Diocese has put in place Lenten reflections for the year 2021. During the season of Lent, we shall be opportune to listen to edifying, nourishing and deep spiritual reflection on each day during the season from the Bishop and Priests working in the Diocese. This reflections will be posted on the following Social media handles:
YouTube: Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode Nigeria
Facebook: “I-partner Ijebu-ode” and “The Partner Newspaper”
Website: www.ijebuodecatholicdiocese.org
Kindly log in to any of these platforms and listen to the inspiring messages from the Priests working in the Diocese.

⦁ Year of St. Joseph (8th December 2020 – 8th December 2021): The Holy Father recently in his Apostolic Letter “Patris corde” proclaimed the “Year of Saint Joseph” which will hold from 8th December, 2020 to 8th December 2021. This is to mark the 150th anniversary of the declaration of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church.
During this celebration of the Year of St. Joseph, we call the attention of the Faithful to opportunity of obtaining a Plenary Indulgence that the Church has made available during the course of the year. The plenary indulgence is available to all the faithful who recite any legitimate approved prayer of act of piety in honour of St. Joseph on the following days: Every Wednesday, the feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, the 19th Day of each month and in particular March 19 (the feast of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary) and May 1st (Feast of St. Joseph the worker). This indulgence is granted to faithful who fulfills the conditions of sacramental confession, Eucharistic Communion and Praying for the Pope’s intention.

⦁ Novena to St. Joseph: As a continuation of the call for monthly Novena for the intentions of our Diocese, healing of our world from Covid-19 pandemic, and as part of commemorating the year of St. Joseph, I invite you to take up the Novena to St. Joseph. This Novena will begin on March 10th – 18th, 2021. The Solemnity of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary comes up on March 19, 2021. May I enjoin all Parish Priests, Superiors and Chaplains to kindly ensure that this novena is carried out in all Parishes, schools, convents and formation houses across the Diocese.

⦁ Liturgical Directive: In accordance with the directive of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, “one” is to be removed before “God, forever and ever” in collects and other prayers. This directive comes into effect in Nigeria as from the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity Sunday, May 30, 2021.

⦁ Increase in Harvest Cathedraticum from 12% – 15%: In view of the increasing financial responsibilities of the Chancery as a result of the improved welfare package for both priests and lay personnel of the Diocese and other increase in our expenditure due to several other Diocesan obligations arising from our new approach to administration and pastoral activities, the Chancery has been left with no option than to seek for more revenue in other to remain responsible and be able to maintain all our existing structures well. As a result of this reality, we have found a need to increase cathedraticum on Harvest proceeds in all parishes from 12% to 15% with effect from 1st January 2021. By harvest proceeds, we mean all harvest related collections which include but not limited to family harvests, youth harvests, all societies harvest, stations harvest, parish harvest, general harvest and so on. All Parish Priests and Priests-in-charge should take note.

⦁ Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center, Iwopin: We appreciate all those who have contributed to the renovation of the Marian Pilgrimage Center with their kind donations. This is our project to rebuild, we therefore remind individuals, families, societies, parishes and stations to support this course of rebuilding Ave Maria Pilgrimage center with your kind donations. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7). The account details is as follows:
Account Name: Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center, Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode
Account Number: 1022812598
Bank: United Bank for Africa (UBA)

⦁ Construction of a Diocesan Chancery Building: The building of our Diocesan Chancery has commenced and the foundation work has been completed. We thank God for the success of the foundation laying ceremonies which took place on February 19, 2021. We thank all those who made out time to attend the ceremonies. We call on all Parishes, Institutions, families and benefactors both within and outside the Diocese to financially support this project. To support this project of constructing a befitting Chancery for the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, kindly make your donation to the following Bank Account:
Account Name: Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode
Account Number: 0131027016
Bank: FCMB

⦁ ANNOUNCEMENTS

⦁ Diaconate Ordination: The Diaconate Ordination of Mr. Obiagbalasi Henry Eberechukwu and Mr. Igwe James Smiles will come up on Sunday, March 21, 2021 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Oru-Ijebu by 10:00am. Let us remember to pray for these young men that God will make them his worthy ministers.

⦁ Special Collections: Let us remember to collect these special collections for the month of March:

⦁ Youth Special Collection – March 28, 2021 (Palm Sunday)
⦁ Emergency Fund Collection – March 21, 2021. The Emergency Fund collection is managed by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria to assist people in emergency situations in the country.
⦁ The Lenten special collection is to be taken every Sunday and during the Stations of the Cross during the Lenten Season.
Priests should kindly ensure that these collections are well publicized, collected and remitted to the Chancery for proper collation.

⦁ Presbyteral Council Meeting: The meeting of all Priests involved in Pastoral work in Ijebu-Ode Diocese will come up on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Ilisan-Remo by 10:00am. All Priests are expected to be at this gathering.

⦁ Diocesan Pastoral Council Meeting: The first meeting of the DPC for the year 2021 will come up on Saturday, 27th March, 2021 at the Bishop Anthony Saliu Sanusi Hall of St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral by 10:00am. All those concerned should kindly take note.

⦁ Chrism Mass 2021: This will be celebrated at St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday 31st March, 2021. Further information pertaining those to attend will be given later in the month.

⦁ Priests’ Annual Retreat: All Priests working in the Diocese will be on their annual retreat for the year 2021 from March 1st – 6th, 2021 at Abbe-Louis Bautain Retreat and Conference Centre.

⦁ Annual Marian Pilgrimage 2021: This is to appreciate and thank all Parishes within the Diocese for the beautiful organization and planning of the Annual Marian Pilgrimage that was done on parish level this year. Thank you to all the Priests who were assigned to various parishes to facilitate the pilgrimages. May the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of Light continually shine the light of Christ on our pathway. Amen.

⦁ NCWR Lenten Retreat: The Lenten Retreat of the Nigeria Conference of Women Religious, Ijebu-Ode Area will come up on Saturday, 6th March, 2021 at OLA Community, Ijebu-Ode by 10am. All members should take note.

⦁ Liturgical Commission: The following activities of the Liturgical Commission of the Diocese will take place this month:
⦁ Annual Retreat for all welcoming ministers at St. Louis Catholic Church, Ijebu-Ife on March 6, 2021
⦁ Seminar for Lay Leaders on Lenten and Easter talk and on Liturgical vestments at St. Timothy Catholic Church, Degun on March 13, 2021 at exactly 1o:00am.
⦁ Deanery meeting of Mass servers at the deanery centers across the Diocese on March 13, 2021 by 10:00am.
⦁ General meeting of Diocesan Liturgical Commission at St. Timothy Catholic Church, Degun on March 16, 2021. All members should take note.
⦁ Holy Childhood Association: The following activities of the HCA will take place this month:
⦁ Lenten Retreat for all members of Holy Childhood Association in all Parishes on March 6, 2021. This should be coordinated by the Animators in various parishes.
⦁ HCA Animation visit to St. Francis, Itele and St. Louis, Ijebu-Ife on March 27-28, 2021.
⦁ Family and Human Life Apostolate: The department of the Family and Human Life of the Diocese will be having the following events in the month of March 2021:
⦁ Level One training of Marriage Counsellors at St. Francis Catholic Church, Odo-Aye on March 20, 2021
⦁ The first bi-annual meeting of the Family and Human Life Consultors will come up on March 20, 2021 at St. Francis Catholic Church, Odo-Aye
⦁ Graduation and certification of Level Two Marriage Counsellors will come up on March 28, 2021 at Sr. Francis Catholic Church, Odo-Aye.

⦁ Department of Catechesis and Religious Education: All agents of Evangelization are to take note of the following activities of the Catechetical department taking place this month.
⦁ General meeting of all agents of Evangelization with the Director on March 6, 2021 by 11am at the Catechetical Center, Ilado.
⦁ Lenten Recollection for all agents of Evangelization on March 13, 2021 by 11am at the Catechetical Center, Ilado.
⦁ There shall be a seminar for all agents of Evangelization on Sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable persons on March 20, 2021 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Ayegbami, Sagamu by 11am.

⦁ Priestly Ordination Anniversary: We congratulate, rejoice with and request your prayers for Most Rev. Albert Ayinde Fasina (March 8), Msgr. Victor Ajayi (March 8), Frs. Kennedy Ukachi, SMM (March 17), Francis Okposio, SMM (March 17), John Benedict Mary, FI (March 24), Gabriel Udogu, FI (March 25), Vincent Michael, FI (March 25), and John Aruleba (March 28) as they celebrate their Priestly Ordination Anniversary this month. May God grant them fulfillment and the grace of final perseverance. Amen.

⦁ Bereavement: We announce, with deep sympathy the demise of Mrs Fidelia Obiora, the mother of Sr. Caroline Obiora OSC, a member of the Poor Clare Monastery, Ikoto. May God grant her eternal rest and consolation to the family.
Thank you as I wish you a blessed and fruitful month of March.

Most Rev. Francis Obafemi ADESINA
Bishop of Ijebu-ode Diocese.

020-2021-MarchDownload the March 2021 Circular

TO ALL PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS WORKING IN THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF IJEBU-ODE, AND THE LAY FAITHFUL

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord:

Grace and Peace of the Lord be with you.

1: The Month of February: I heartily welcome you to another month of the
year, the month of February 2021, a month rich in both liturgical and spiritual activities. We begin the liturgical activities with the Feast of the Presentation (February 2), where the Church calls us to re-dedicate ourselves to God, following the example of Mary and Joseph who took the Child Jesus to the temple for dedication.

In the later part of the month, we will begin the Season of Lent with the ASH WEDNESDAY (February 17). The ashes we receive on our foreheads reminds us of two things: that we are sinners in need of God’s mercy and it reminds us of the fact that we are dust and unto dust we shall return. Hence, the Season of Lent is meant to be a time for spiritual renewal and growth through the acts of Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. It is a time to turn back to God and ask for mercy and forgiveness. During this season of Lent, the colour will change from Green to purple, to depict the penitential nature of the season.

2: Pope’s Intention for the month of February 2021: Violence against
Women: We pray for women who are victims of violence, that they may be protected by society and have their sufferings considered and heeded.

3: Bishop’s Intention for the month of February 2021: For Catechists, Lay
leaders and Evangelizers: That all lay teachers of faith in the Diocese may be renewed in their commitment to spread the gospel message of Christ and the Catholic doctrine.

4: Lenten Reflection 2021: The Social Communications Commission of the
Diocese has put in place Lenten reflections for the year 2021. During the season of Lent, we shall be opportune to listen to edifying, nourishing and deep spiritual reflection on each day during the season from the Bishop and Priests working in the Diocese. This reflections will be posted on the following Social media handles:

Kindly log in to any of these platforms and listen to the inspiring messages from the Priests working in the Diocese. I enjoin all Priests that will take part in this spiritual exercise to make themselves available on February 3rd and 4th, 2021 for the recording which will take place at the Justice, Development and Peace Commission, Ijebu- Ode, starting at exactly 9:00am on both days.

5: Cathedraticum Masses: The Cathedraticum Mass this year will take place the same day with the Chrism Mass. All Parishes are expected to monetize their support to the Bishop to aid his work of charity to the poor and needy.

6: Priests’ Annual Retreat: The Priests annual retreat for the year 2021 will come up from March 1st — 5th, 2021 at Abbe-Louis Bautain Retreat and Conference Centre. This is a statutory retreat which every Priest must partake in every year. As such, it is important for all Priests engaged in pastoral work in this diocese to be a part of this spiritual exercise. Priests are encouraged to see Fr. Matthew Oguleru or any member of the Pastoral Planning and Operations Committee and make necessary payments.

7: Annual Marian Pilgrimage 2021: Following the challenges posed by the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2021 Annual Diocesan Marian Pilgrimage to Iwopin will not hold. However, we shall as a Diocese observe our Marian devotion at parish level in place of the Pilgrimage with the following details:

THEME: The Theme for Our Devotion this year is “OUR LADY MOTHER OF LIGHT.” This theme will be used in all parishes for their devotion.

NATURE OF THE PROGRAMME: The programme will take the exact format of the annual pilgrimage but on parish basis.

PARISH GROUPING: Parishes in the Diocese will be grouped into three and will hold their own devotions at three different weekends. This is to allow for an effective distribution of priests for pastoral coverage at each parish event.

ANIMATION/COLLECTIONS: Parishes are to divert the effort and resources usually spent on transportation to Iwopin to animate and support local transport that will facilitate good attendance from all the stations under each parish. Note that, all Church collections taken at this Parish Marian devotion should be paid into the account of Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center, UBA, 1022812598. The collections will be used in renovating the Pilgrimage center for the Diocese. Thank you in anticipation.

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS: All Parish Priests are to ensure that all Covid-19 protocols for public gathering are strictly observed at the event. These include but not limited to; a) Wearing of face masks by all in attendance. b) Washing of hands before admittance into the venue of the programme, c) Use of sanitizers as already directed and especially before receiving communion in the hand, d) Ensuring safe social distancing in the seating arrangement of the venue.

REPORTS: Parish Priests are to submit a detailed report of the event to the office of the Vicar for Pastoral Affairs within one week of holding the event.

8: Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: As a continuation of the call for monthly
Novena for the intentions of our Diocese and healing of our world from Covid-19 pandemic, I invite you to take up the Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes which will begin on February 2nd — 10th, 2021. The feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes is on February 11th, 2021. May I enjoin all Parish Priests, Superiors and Chaplains to kindly ensure that this novena is carried out in all Parishes, schools, convents and formation houses across the diocese.

9: Day of Consecrated Persons: The Feast day of Consecrated Life is
celebrated worldwide on February 2nd every year. A diocesan celebration will take place as follows:

The Bishop will preside at the Mass. Other events follow after the Mass. All Priests and Laity in the Diocese are invited to join the Consecrated Men and Women working in the Diocese in this special celebration.

10: Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center, Iwopin: We appreciate all those who have contributed to the renovation of the Marian Pilgrimage Center with their kind donations. As we prepare for another Pilgrimage this year, we remind individuals, families, societies, parishes and stations to support this course of rebuilding Ave Maria Pilgrimage center with your kind donations. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7). The account details is as follows:

11: Construction of a Diocesan Chancery Building: The building of our Diocesan Chancery has commenced and the foundation work is on-going. As such, I am calling on all Parishes, Institutions, families and benefactors both within and outside the Diocese to financially support this project. To support this project of constructing a befitting Chancery for the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, kindly make your donation to the following Bank Account:

12: ANNOUNCEMENTS

In the same vein we thank and appreciate Sr. Theresa Ajayi, SSMA for her commitment while working at St. Felix Nursery and Primary School. She is on transfer to another community and we wish her the best in her new assignment.

Thank you as I wish you a blessed and fruitful month of February.

019-2021-FebruaryDownload the February 2021 Circular

By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The 12th day of January 2021 is a day the faithful of Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode gathered at St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral Ijebu-Ode to officially open the 2021 pastoral year.

Priests, religious; both male and female and representatives of laity from parishes and institutions gathered to witness this first Holy Mass of the Diocese for the year. congregants were spread to maintain good social distancing and ensure the use of their nose mask in accordance with the safety measures against the Corona pandemic.

The Bishop in his remark said “I am happy we are able to gather as a diocese to jointly express our profound gratitude to God for sustaining our lives and vocations throughout 2020 into 2021. It is good that we also Express our appreciation to one another as you received a lot of support from both laity and clerics for the good of our ministry.”

The bishop after appreciating the efforts of his priests and religious together with the laity since he has arrived into the Diocese charged them to do more in the new year of 2021. In his words, he said “I appeal to all of you assigned to pastoral ministry in the Diocese to do all that is needed for the success of the mission not thinking first about self but about Jesus who will never fail us.” The bishop insisted that everybody is to be included in the successful execution of our pastoral plan going forward he added, “on my part as your shepherd and servant I renew my commitment to sanctify govern and teach the flock handed over to me.

As a shepherd conscious of the global and national situation of the Covid-19 pandemic, he noted with emphasis, “We have been told that there is a new wave of coronavirus in town let us elevate the standard of precautions that were earlier established in our parishes schools and hospitals. We must keep ourselves safe and keep others safe in return.”

The program ended with a discussion session after the Holy Mass. The discussion is on the new pastoral letter released by the Bishop in December 2020 titled “The Word of God: A light in our path beyond the golden jubilee year celebrations”.
The pastoral letter was comprehensively reviewed for implementation.

By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu Ode Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina prompted the 2020 Diocesan Pastoral seminar under the direction and brilliant planning of Very. Rev. Fr. Patrick ‘Kunle Balogun, the Vicar for Pastoral Affiars. The seminar was organized by Fr. Matthew Oguleru and other members of the committee which took place between November 30, 2020 and December 4, 2020 at Louis Bautain Retreat Center Itele, Ijebu.
This seminar was to prepare the Priests, Religious and laity on how to better contribute efficiently to the work of evangelization. The talk of the first day was based on Self-reliance. It was anchored by Very Rev. Fr. George Ajana. The talk of the second day was based on the Implementation of the Pastoral Plan by the Pastoral Council. This was delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Balogun while Rev. Fr. Joseph Paul Iyama, a formator in SS Peter and Paul Major Seminary, Bodija, Ibadan took the “Canonical approach the pastoral council”.


At the end of the seminar which includes other spiritual activities like daily Masses and Office recitation, the Bishop stood up before the Priests and Religious to appreciate them all. He said “I am sincerely grateful and thank you all for this pastoral seminar”. In his usual enthusiastic manner he said “I am so proud of you”. According to him, the Diocesan Pastoral Council is to renew the council members in the various parishes. He said priests should not run the parishes without the prior establishment of the Pastoral Council.
Going forward into the New Year, the Bishop reechoed the following points in his speech
“I want to foster more Religious and Indigenous vocation
“I want to intensify the growth of parish communities”
“I want to strengthen the Catholic education in my Diocese”
“I want to revive the culture of accountability and transparency in the Diocese”
He continued by saying that “we all have agreed to take a bold step to address our remuneration in order to achieve fairness. We all have also agreed to create more pastoral communities in terms of parishes and outstations.” The Bishop concluded by praying that the Lord will strengthen the resolve of all the pastoral agent s working in the Diocese of Ijebu Ode.

Chief Host – Most Rev Francis Adesina – Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode

Programme

Day One  – 11 December, 2020

12 Noon

5:00 PM

Day Two – 12 December, 2020

10:00 AM

TO ALL PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS WORKING IN THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF IJEBU-ODE, AND THE LAY FAITHFUL

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord:

Grace and Peace of the Lord be with you.

1: The Month of December: Welcome to the last month of the year. We thank God for preserving our lives to witness the last month of the year 2020 despite all the troubles of the year. The month of December is a month of expectation, joy and celebration. It is a time we celebrate two seasons in the Church’ liturgical year: the season of Advent and the season of Christmas.

Season of Advent: The English word “Advent” is from the Latin word `Adventus’, which means coming. It is a season that spans for four (4) weeks, i.e. from 1st Sunday of Advent till 24th December. During the season of advent, we are reminded of the three coming of Christ (his first coming which took place many years ago, the coming of Christ in glory at the end of time, and the coming of Christ today in the Sacraments and life of the Church). Thus, this season opens us up to stock-taking, self-evaluation and thanksgiving to God. Therefore, we need to embrace this season with hope and expectation, with longing and waiting, and with conversion and penance in preparation for the season of Christmas. The Season of Advent begins a new Liturgical year in the Church. Sunday readings from the first Sunday of Advent will now be from Cycle B of the Lectionary. The Liturgical colour for this season is Purple, which tells us more about the penitent nature of the season.

Season of Christmas: At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Christ, the Word made flesh. The Christmas season begins on the 24th of December with the Christmas Eve Mass and ends on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. The season of Christmas comes with great joy. It is a season that expresses God’s love for his people. While we are busy with travelling and making other material preparations for Christmas, we must not lose sight of the spiritual significance of the season- the opportunity to encounter Jesus and draw closer to him.

2: Novena to the Infant Jesus: As a continuation of the call for monthly Novena for the sake of our Diocese I invite you all to take up, for this month of December, the novena to the Infant Jesus. This 9-day novena will start on December 15 — December 23, 2020. This is expected to take place in all Catholic families, parishes, houses of formation and institutions across the Diocese simultaneously.

3: Pope’s Intention for the month of December: For a Life of Prayer: We pray that our personal relationship with Jesus Christ be nourished by the Word of God and a life of prayer.

4: Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center, Iwopin: Since the circular of April, there has been a constant request to support the renovation of the Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center. We appreciate all those who have contributed generously to this appeal with their kind donations. We remind individuals, families, societies, parishes and stations to support this course of rebuilding our Pilgrimage center with your kind donations. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7). The account details is as follows:

5: Construction of a Diocesan Chancery Building: For the past 51 years of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, the Diocese has been making use of the Bishop House and now some offices in the JDPC Complex as chancery for the day-to-day running of the Diocese. It has become necessary and expedient at this stage to build a Chancery where the daily administrative activities of the Diocese will be carried out. As such, I am calling on all Parishes, Institutions, families and benefactors both within and outside the Diocese to financially support this project. The preliminary works has already begun on the proposed site. To support this project of constructing a befitting Chancery for the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, kindly make your donation to the following Bank Account:

6: Pastoral Letter 2020: My first pastoral letter to all Priests, Religious and Laity of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode will be made available in all Parishes as from the third Sunday of Advent. The title of this first pastoral letter is “The Word of God: A Light in our path beyond the Golden Jubilee year celebrations.” I chose to reflect on this theme based on the just concluded year of the Word of God, which ended in September 2020. In this letter, I proposed ways in which the bible can be more engaged in the families and churches. The letter also introduces us to the Pastoral plan of the diocese titled, “Moving forward in faith and action” (cf. Ex. 14,15; Phil. 3, 12-14) which will be published next year. It is my sincere desire that every family, parish and institution will have access to this Pastoral letter, digest its contents and apply it. It is written both in English and in Yoruba. I enjoin all Priests to pick up copies at the Chancery for their Parishioners.

7: Annual Statistics 2020: This is to remind all Parish Priests, Principals, Head teachers, Superiors of various Religious Houses, Administrators and Managers of Hospitals and those in-charge of various orphanages in the Diocese to kindly submit the statistics for the year 2020. The submission of this statistics will be done online. The portal will be opened on December 15, 2020 and will be closed on January 15, 2021. Further directives on how this will be done will be communicated to us through Rev. Fr. Augustine Adetola, the Secretary to the Bishop.

8: ANNOUNCEMENTS

FRIDAY, 11TH DECEMBER, 2020

Event: Memorial Mass in honour of Late Bishop Anthony Saliu Sanusi

Venue: St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, Odo-Egbo, Ijebu-Ode

Time: 5:00pm. Vestment/ Colour for the Mass: Purple

SATURDAY, 12TH DECEMBER, 2020

Event: Memorial Lecture

Venue: Bishop Anthony Saliu Sanusi Hall, St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, Ijebu-Ode 1St Talk: The Life, Episcopacy and Contributions of Bishop Anthony Saliu Sanusi to Catholicism in Ijebu-land.

Speaker: Most Rev. Michael Fagun, Bishop Emeritus of Ekiti Diocese.

2nd Talk: Lessons from Bishop Anthony Saliu Sanusi for the Present and Future of Ijebu-Ode Catholic Diocese.

Speaker: Mr. Oyewole Theophilus Olaoye

Time: 10:00am

Other events lined up for this Memorial Day include: Enthronement of the Bible; Documentary on the life and times of Bishop Anthony Saliu Sanusi; 3D slides presentation of the grave site and many more.

Thank you as I wish you a blessed and fruitful month of December. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.

The Diocese of Ijebu Ode has started the 2020 Pastoral seminar which is meant to prepare the priests, religious and laity on how to better contribute efficiently to evangelization in the Diocese. This year’s first talk is being anchored by Fr. George Ajana with the title….. “Self Reliance “….
Other details will come later

Cross section of attendees
The second day is being anchored by Very Rev. Fr. Patrick K. Balogun. Topic is Implementation of the Pastoral plan by Pastoral Council.

A remark made by Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, the Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode Diocese at the Ijebu-Ode Priests monthly recollection on 10th November, 2020 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Imomo.

My dear brother Priests, may I sincerely thank you for your faithful attendance at the monthly recollection in the Diocese. The monthly recollection is a time to re-connect with God and re-examine our Priestly work and call. Aside the fact that we are able to socialize by meeting ourselves regularly, it offers us opportunities to be reconciled back to God through the acts of Penance and prayers.

For those Priests who have made it a point of duty to always absent themselves from this gathering, we must re-awake in them the spirit of recognizing the importance of such gatherings and event. The monthly recollection of Priests working in Ijebu-Ode Diocese is a valuable tradition that must be sustained. It must never be heard that the zeal of attending such gatherings has gone down in some priests. Nobody should attend such a prayer gathering with the hope or desire of impressing the Bishop. The purpose of coming is a personal one – to reconnect with God, who we are working for in his Vineyard.

As a fall-out from the above, I would like to reflect with you today on the theme “Priestly Dedication.” One thing that made St. Johnbosco stand out in his ministry was his dedication to the youths around him. His dedication made him go extra length to look for ways to help the youths and make them grow. His dedication made him overlook the various challenges and setbacks. This same dedication is what we are expected to have in our Priestly ministry.

To be dedicated means to be committed, focused, to stand fast, to sustain positive enthusiasm, to be disciplined, to make sacrifices, to be resolute, to be an achiever and not a quitter and so on. We need to be dedicated to a particular or valuable cause and the cause here is our Priestly ministry. How dedicated or committed are we to our Priestly work in the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode? Everyone is dedicated to something. The question is what are you dedicated to? This is the question we need to ask ourselves. As Catholic Priests, are you dedicated to Priestly ideal and Christ’s mission? What occupies your minds as Priests, the mission of Christ or your personal comfort?

It is a pity that some priests are so committed to other task and duty that brings in money to their personal pockets. As Catholic Priests, Is the pastoral care of the people of God under your care a concern to you or all you care about is self-care? Salvation of souls or damnation of souls? To build, unite and heal the body of Christ or to inflict more injuries to the Body of Christ? We need to examine ourselves and ask the above questions.

We need dedicated Priests in Ijebu-Ode Diocese. Priests that will be willing and ready to go any length in spreading the good news without counting cost. Priests that will be ready to think more of the souls under their care than their personal gains. Hard work and dedication to one’s duty does not kill but it yields great result and a bountiful harvest. The book of Ecclesiastes 9:10 says: “Whatever your hands finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” Also, St. Paul’s letter to the Colossians 3:23-24 says: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord you are serving.”

Being dedicated to the Priestly duty is a sign that we know truly the work we have accepted. To be dedicated is to fulfil the mission of Christ in looking for the lost souls and bringing them back to the fold. There is certainly a great reward for Priestly dedication. Proverbs 12:11 says: “Those who work, their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.” Also, Proverbs 14:23 says: “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Dear Brother Priests, do not be tired in doing what is right for God. Be dedicated to your Priestly ministry at all times and do not be discouraged even when the Bishop does not notice you. Remember that whatever you do, you do it not for man but for God. As such, our dedication must not be done for the Bishop to applaud but for God to say weldone, good and faithful servant.

Canon 469 of the 1983 Code defines the constitution and finality of the Diocesan Curia. It states that: “The Diocesan Curia consists of those institutions and persons which assist the Bishop in the governance of the whole Diocese, especially in guiding pastoral action, in caring for the administration of the Diocese, and in exercising judicial power.” This was the reason for which the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina instituted the Ad Hoc Diocesan Curia body after his resumption into office. According to the Bishop however, “with time and increase in level of experience and functionality, the Curia is taking a gradual definite structure away from being just Ad-Hoc”. He made this statement on 3rd November 2020 at the last Curia meeting for the year. The appointment of a new Moderator is a testament to this fact.

The Moderator of the Curia, under the authority of the Bishop of the Diocese coordinates the proceedings of the Curia meetings. The Bishop in his remarks said the demise of the former Moderator, Late Msgr. Valentine Awoyemi created a vacuum that should necessary be filled for effective running of the Curia. “This explains the appointment of Very Rev. Fr. Sylvester Onasanya for a period of one year. The Chancellor, Fr. Albert Igbodipe resumes statutory as the Secretary to the Curia” Fr. Sylvester Onasanya had been on mission in Lagos Archdiocese before returning home to Ijebu-Ode Diocese. Upon his return, he was made the Parish Priest of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholc Church, Esure.

Very Rev. Fr. Sylvester Onasanya in his speech thanked the Bishop of the Diocese for this privilege to serve. He also thanked all the priests in the Curia for accepting him to lead in this capacity as a moderator. He beckoned on the priests for cooperation and promised to put in his best.

TO ALL PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS WORKING IN THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF IJEBU-ODE, AND THE LAY FAITHFUL

1: The Month of November: Welcome to the penultimate month of the year. The Church commemorates during this month, the Solemnity of All Saints (Nov. 1) and All Souls (Nov. 2). These two days are reminders that holiness of life must be desired by all and that we must always pray for our brothers and sisters in purgatory. These two important days give profound expression to our faith and believe in the Communion of Saints. In these commemorations, we find a strong connection between the Church Triumphant (the faithful who have attained the joys of heaven); the Church Suffering (the faithful who are still undergoing purification for the expiation of their sins in Purgatory) and the Church Militant (the faithful who are still on the earthly pilgrimage).

All Saints’ Day: The Solemnity of All Saints’ Day is a Holy Day of Obligation set aside to celebrate all the Saints throughout Christian history, both known and unknown, canonized or beatified. On this day, it is compulsory that Masses are celebrated in all Parishes. May the Saints continue to intercede for us always. Amen.

All Souls’ Day: The commemoration of All Souls reminds us of human mortality. Let us avail ourselves of the graces attached to this celebration by gaining for ourselves Plenary Indulgence through the sacrifice of the Holy Mass, visiting a Church or cemetery and giving alms to the poor. It is compulsory for all Priests to celebrate 3 Masses on this day: one for the faithful departed, one for the Priest’s intention and one for the intention of the Holy Father.

Solemnity of Christ the King: The celebration of Christ the King comes up on Sunday, November 22, 2020. The celebration also marks the beginning of the last week of the 2019/2020 Liturgical Year. On this day, Eucharistic Processions are held throughout Nigeria. However, due to the safety measures put in place to guard against the spread of COV1D-19, I enjoin all Parish Priests to kindly have a simple public procession. Prayers are to be offered for the country and the world in general.

Novena to Christ the King: As a continuation of the call for monthly Novena for the sake of our Diocese and as part of the preparations to celebrate the feast of Christ the King, the Patron of our Diocese, I invite you all to take up, for this month of November, the nine days Novena to Christ the King, Patron of our Diocese. This Novena will commence simultaneously in all Parishes, Houses of formation, Chapels, Convents and Institutions on the 13th November and will conclude on the 21st November, a day preceding the celebration of Christ the King.

Please, all Parish Priests, Superiors and Principals should ensure that this Novena is carried out in their respective Parishes, Houses of Formation, Convents and Institutions. May Christ the King, Patron of our Diocese hear our prayers. Amen.

2: Pope’s Intention for the month of November 2020: For Artificial Intelligence: We pray that the progress of robotics and artificial intelligence may always serve humankind.

3: Full Re-opening of Churches: In line with the release of the State Government ordering the full re-opening of worship centers in the State, may I enjoin all Parish Priests and Priest-in-charge to kindly ensure that Parishioners observe all safety measures already in place. While the sitting arrangement can be re-worked according to the parish or Church setting, the use of hand sanitizer, face mask and washing of hands should continue. The country has not been declared free from Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, I expect that Priests and the various Parish Pastoral Council will come up with ways that will ensure safety of all those who come into our Church premises.

4: Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center, Iwopin: Since the circular of April, there has been a constant request to support the renovation of the Ave Maria Pilgrimage Center. We appreciate all those who have contributed generously to this appeal with their kind donations. We remind individuals, families, societies, parishes and stations to support this course of rebuilding our Pilgrimage center with your kind donations. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7). The account details is as follows:

5: Construction of a Diocesan Chancery Building: For the past 51 years of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, the Diocese has been making use of the Bishop House and now some offices in the JDPC Complex as chancery for the day-to-day running of the Diocese. It has become necessary and expedient at this stage to build a Chancery where the daily administrative activities of the Diocese will be carried out. As such, I am calling on all Parishes, Institutions, families and benefactors both within and outside the Diocese to financially support this project. The preliminary works has already begun on the proposed site. To support this project of constructing a befitting Chancery for the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, kindly make your donation to the following Bank Account:

6: ANNOUNCEMENTS

  1. Curia Meeting: The last Curia meeting for the year will come up on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at the JDPC Conference Hall, Ijebu-Ode. The meeting start at exactly 10:00am. All Priests concerned should endeavor to be there on time.
  2. Annual Pastoral Seminar: This is to inform all Priests on Pastoral assignment in the Diocese of the annual Pastoral Seminar which will come up from November 30 — December 4, 2020 at Louis Bautain Retreat and Conference Center, Itele.
  3. Priests Monthly Recollection for November: The Priests’ monthly recollection will take place on Tuesday November 10, 2020 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Imomo, starting at exactly 10:00am. The theme for this month’s recollection is “St. Johnbosco and youth ministry: A model for today’s Priest” All Priests engaged in pastoral work in the Diocese are expected to be present at this prayer gathering.
  4. Presbyteral Council Meeting: The last meeting of the Presbyteral council for this year will come up on November 30, 2020 at the Louis Bautain Retreat and Conference Center, the venue for this year’s Pastoral seminar. The meeting will start at exactly 4:00pm. All Priests working in the Diocese should take note.
  5. A Day Recollection for Episcopal Vicars and Chancellor: There shall be a day recollection for all the Episcopal Vicars and Chancellor recently appointed at Saint Patrick Formation House, Esure, Ijebu-Imusin on Thursday, November 21, 2020. The recollection will start at exactly 10:00am.
  6. Recording of Advent Reflections: The Communications Department is using this medium to inform all Priests that have been selected for the Advent Reflection, that the recording will come up on Tuesday, 3rd and Wednesday, 4th November, 2020 at the JDPC Compound. Kindly be available for this event.
  7. Submission of 2020 Report: This is to inform all Heads of Department, Institutions and Presidents of various Organizations like CMO, CWO, CYON and HCA that there will be need to submit a comprehensive report of activities done in the year 2020. This report is expected to be detailed containing the summary of what was done and pictures to back it up. It will be submitted both in printed copies and soft copies to the Vicar for Pastoral Affairs on or before December 10, 2020. This is an obligatory annual report and all those concerned should take note. A copy of this should be sent to the Chancery also.
  8. Submission of activities for the year 2021: This is to remind all Departmental Heads, Chaplains and all those in charge of various commission in the Diocese to kindly submit a copy of their proposed programmes/activities for 2021. The deadline for submission is November 30, 2020. Both the hardcopy and softcopy of the activities should be submitted to the Chancellor.
  9. Special Collections: Let us remember to collect the special collection in support of the Catholic Institute for West Africa (CIWA) on November 8 and ensure that we submit it on time to the Chancery for proper collation.
  10. 25th Anniversary of Religious Profession: We rejoice and celebrate with Sr. Roseline Abiola Ogunbanwo, SSL, from St. Mary Parish, Ogbere as she marks 25 years in the Religious life. The celebration which was postponed before will now come up in her home parish, St. Mary Catholic Church, Ogbere, on Sunday, November 8, 2020.
  11. Department for Pastoral Planning and Operations: In order to enhance the smooth running of the Pastoral life and activities of the Diocese, the former pastoral department or committee as we used to have it will now be known and called “the department for pastoral planning and operations.” The following persons will constitute the members of the department:
    1. Rev. Fr. Matthew Oguleru: Co-ordinator
    2. Rev. Fr. Evaristus-Mary Oduntan: Assistant Coordinator
    3. Rev. Fr. Albert Osunlaja: Secretary
    4. Rev. Fr. Peter Owolabi: Member
    5. Rev. Fr. Peter Adesanya: Member
    6. Rev. Fr. John Aruleba: Member
    7. Rev. Fr. Sabinus Orji: Member
    8. Sr. Catherine Fafila, SSL: Member
    9. Sr. Margaret Okudaje, OLA: Member
    10. Sr. Patience Nwokenkwo, CP: Member
    11. Mr. Paul Osineye (Cathedral Parish): Member
    12. Mr. Michael Adubi (Cathedral): Member
    13. Mr. Raymond Odubela (Enure): Member
  12. Transfers/Study:  Rev. Fr. Stephen Osinkoya — To study Canon Law at Pontifical Santa Della Cruce, Rome, Italy. Rev. Fr. Christopher Ogunnupebi — Priest-in-charge, Holy Angels Catholic Parish, Oke-Agbo, Ijebu-Igbo. Rev. Fr. Peter Ayanbadejo — Acting Cathedral Administrator, St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, Odo-Egbo, Ijebu-Ode. Rev. Fr. Gabriel Oresegun — Acting Dean, Ijebu-Ode Deanery. Rev. Fr. James Shatu, F.I. — Acting Priest-in-charge, St. Michael Catholic Parish, Ilisan
  13. Priestly Ordination Anniversary: We congratulate, rejoice and request your prayers for Rev. Frs. Gabriel Olanrewaju (Nov. 3); Sylvester Onasanya (Nov 12); Basil Matuluko (Nov 16) and Martin-Rita Ogunbanwo (Nov 16) as they celebrate their Priestly Ordination Anniversary this month. May the Lord grant them the grace of final perseverance. Amen.

Thank you as I wish you a blessed and fruitful month of November. May God heal our land.

The Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, has lent his voice to the #EndSARS mantra currently making wave in the country and even outside the country. In what has become a nationwide protest against Police brutality in the country, the Catholic Bishop has joined the many Nigerian youths and citizens to say that Police brutality and every form of oppression from those meant to protect the people must end

He made this remark in a statement released by his Secretary today, Wednesday 14th October, 2020, on the occasion of his 31st Priestly Ordination Anniversary. While thanking God for the gift of 31 years in the Lord’s vineyard, he made a clarion call to leaders elected to position of authority in the country to listen to the agitations of the people. He said that, we have come to the point where citizens now demand a better governance from their leaders. The cry of the youths and indeed every Nigerian to EndSARS is a cry to put an end to every form of brutality and oppression Nigerians face daily from those meant to protect their lives.

The Catholic Bishop condemned the fact that the Government has allowed police brutality to linger on for so long in the country. According to him, “now is the time for the Government to act and act in favour of the cry of the many Nigerian youths who have suffered intimidation in the hands of those meant to protect them. The battle is not only for those who have suffered it, but also, for the sake of those yet to suffer it.” He therefore calls on the Government to listen to the voice of the people as it is the voice of God.

Furthermore, he enjoined the youths and the protesters to carry out their protest in a peaceful way and should not be violent about it. He condemned areas where the youths had to vandalize Police vehicles and Police stations while carrying out protest last week. He said that peaceful protest is a civil right for every citizen, and as such, he encouraged all those involved to do so in a peaceful way and not disturb the day-to-day activities of other citizens.

In addition, Bishop Adesina condemned the killings and arrest of several Nigerians who are currently protesting against Police brutality. He said that “arresting and killing innocent citizens for protesting is part of the so many wrongs in our country that must be addressed by the goverment. It is quite unfair to loose so many citizens of the country due to trigger-happy Police who are supposed to protect the lives of the citizens. This is why the Police must be reformed and all stakeholders in the country must join this agitation and movement for the reformation of the Police in Nigeria. The killings are too much and we must all speak out.”

In conclusion, he charged the Government to act fast and in time. “The cry goes beyond ending Police brutality in the country, the cry is about making Nigeria a better and a safe place for citizens where they can walk around without fear of intimidation from those meant to protect their lives. Aside Police brutality which must end, the Government must be ready to deliver on their campaign promises and make life better for every Nigerian.” He said that the protest is a step in the right direction, meaning that Nigerians can stand for what they want and voice it out. Now is the time for the Government to really show and prove that they are actually for the people who elected them. May the Lord bless Nigeria and her citizens. Amen.

#EndsSARS #EndPoliceBrutality

By: Fr. Augustine Akolawole Adetola

As part of the ongoing Canonical Pastoral Visitation of the Bishop to Parishes, Institutions and Hospitals in the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, the Bishop, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, visited some of the Diocesan owned Hospitals in October.

The first of the four hospitals visited was St. Mary Catholic Eye Hospital, Ago-Iwoye on October 2nd, 2020; St. Joseph Catholic Hospital, Ijebu-Igbo, which is the oldest of the Hospitals in the Diocese was visited on October 6, 2020; Rufina Catholic Medical Center, Iperu-Remo was visited on the 7th of October, 2020 while Catholic Opticals Outreaches and the Center for Life was visited on 8th October, 2020.

From left to Right: The Bishop with the management staff of St. Mary Eye Clinic, St. Joseph Catholic Hospital, Rufina Catholic Medical Center and Catholic Opticals Ijebu Ode

Since it was a Canonical Pastoral Visitation of the Bishop to these Hospitals, the event started with the Holy Mass celebrated by the Bishop. Also present at the Masses were the Chaplains of the various Hospitals and the Finance Administrator of the Diocese, Sir Augustine Odukoya, who also doubles as the person in charge of the finances of the Hospitals.

After the meeting, the Bishop had 3 different sessions with the workers of the hospitals. Firstly, there was a private session with the management team of the hospitals. Secondly, another session was held with the staff who are not members of the management team. The third was the joint session of all workers, both management and staff of the hospitals.

In the various meetings held, the Bishop informed the workers the purpose of the Visitation which was to listen to the yearnings of the staff and management of the hospitals. He said, “I have come that I may listen to you.” It was indeed a wonderful time as both the management and staff were able to share their joys, problems, aspirations and future plans with the Bishop regarding the hospitals. The Bishop encouraged everyone to continue to give their best and never relent. He promised to look into some issues that are of major concern with regards to staff welfare and others. Above all, he prayed for them and wished them well.

It was indeed a great time with the Bishop as both the management and staff were filled with joy that they had the opportunity of talking to the Bishop and Proprietor of the Hospitals.