By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The entire Sagamu Deanery of Ijebu-Ode Catholic Diocese on 10^th May 2025 was abuzz with joy and gratitude as Very Rev. Fr. Evaristus-Mary Oduntan marked his 50th birthday with a solemn and joyous Thanksgiving Mass at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Sagamu. The celebration drew a large congregation of Priests, Religious, and Laity from various parishes and communities across the Diocese, all gathered to honour a beloved pastor.

The Mass commenced promptly at 10:00 AM, with the celebrant himself, Very Rev. Fr. Evaristus-Mary Oduntan, presiding over the Holy Eucharist. The atmosphere was filled with reverence and a palpable sense of community as the faithful offered prayers of thanksgiving for his life and ministry.

The homily was delivered by the eloquent Fr. Stephen Ekerin, who captivated the congregation with his reflections. Fr. Ekerin began by offering a heartfelt prayer that Fr. Oduntan’s next 50 years would be even more impactful and blessed than his first five decades. He then shared a personal anecdote, recounting his first meeting with Fr. Oduntan in Oke Are, painting a vivid picture of their shared journey and the celebrant’s consistent character. Fr. Ekerin concluded his powerful message by admonishing Fr. Oduntan to “continue to be good-hearted as he had always been,” a testament to the celebrant’s well-known compassion and kindness.

In his closing remarks, a visibly moved Fr. Oduntan expressed his profound gratitude to everyone who had come to celebrate with him. He thanked the clergy, religious, and lay faithful for their presence and support, acknowledging the immense love he felt from the diocesan family.

A highlight of the celebration was the goodwill message delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Jude-Marie Ezeigbo, the Regional Episcopal Vicar. Fr. Ezeigbo conveyed warm felicitations and blessings from the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Adesina, underscoring the Bishop’s appreciation for Fr. Oduntan’s dedicated service.

The celebration was widely regarded as a beautiful tribute to a pastor who is not only deeply pastorally inclined but also remarkably culturally sensitive, traits that have endeared him to many throughout his years of ministry. The event concluded with well wishes and fellowship, leaving attendees with cherished memories of a truly golden jubilee.