By Emmanuel Alao

Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina; Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, confers the Sacrament of Holy Orders on Rev. Friar Joseph Louis Maria, Rev. Friar Seraphim Maria Opara, and Rev. Friar Rufino Maria on Wednesday 21^st August 2024 with the Holy Mass that started around 10:00am at The City of Immaculate Chaplaincy, Old Aiyepe Road, Sagamu. The ceremony began with a procession of clergy and altar servers, followed by the Liturgy of the Word.

The homilist, Rev. Fr. Michael Oguntade thanked the Bishop for the opportunity granted him to preach on such a day and emphasized the importance of the Priesthood, saying, “These men have answered the call to serve and lead God’s people. May they be guided by the Holy Spirit and remain faithful to their vocation.”

The Ordinandi then prostrated themselves before the altar, symbolizing their humility and willingness to serve. The Bishop then laid hands on each candidate, conferring the Sacrament of Holy Orders followed by all the priests present on the sanctuary. As usual they received the traditional kiss of peace to welcome them into the Sacred Priesthood.

The Minister General; Very Rev. Fr. Immacolato M. Acquiali FI addressed the gathering saying in Yorùbá: Ẹ kú ọdún o, Sagamu”, stating that it is the only Yoruba expression he learnt. He continued by reading a congratulatory letter from the Holy Father, Pope Francis. The Minister General noted that this ordination would not be the last, as there are many Nigerian Friars studying in Rome to become priests. He suggested that it would be beneficial for the Bishop to meet with them, familiarizing himself with the future priests and fostering a sense of connection and community. This would not only strengthen ties between the Nigerian Friars and the Bishop but also provide an opportunity for the Bishop to offer guidance and support as they continue their journey towards priesthood.

The Bishop in his speech recognized all established protocols, thanked the Minister General of the Franciscans of the Immaculate and the African Mission Delegate; Very Rev. Fr. Gabriel Udogu FI for their support and guidance, acknowledging the importance of their leadership and direction. He then encouraged the Franciscan of the Immaculate as a whole to embrace their unique charisma, urging them not to look elsewhere or try to copy others. Bishop emphasized that imitating others is a sign of confusion and a loss of identity.

The Bishop said “cultivate and deepen your understanding of your own apostolic heritage, allowing it to guide your actions and decisions.” He also stressed the importance of unity and support among the Franciscans, encouraging them to pray for one another, especially their priests, sisters, and brothers. He added that by embracing their unique identity and mission, and supporting one another, the Franciscans can fulfill their purpose with clarity and purpose, and make a meaningful contribution to the world.