With profound gratitude and immense joy in our hearts, we extend our warmest appreciation to everyone whose condolences, presence, support, prayers, and contributions made the funeral celebration of our beloved Mr. Clement ’Layi Akanji Abegunrin truly remarkable.

To the Archbishops and Bishops of the Ibadan and Lagos Ecclesiastical Provinces, thank you for your fatherly presence and spiritual guidance. We especially acknowledge the Most Rev. Felix Job, Archbishop Emeritus of Ibadan, and the Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, Archbishop of Lagos.

We also acknowledge the Bishops of the Ibadan Province: Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, Bishop of Oyo; Most Rev. John Akinkunmi Oyejola, Bishop of Osogbo; Most Rev. Felix Femi Ajakaye, Bishop of Ekiti; Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, Bishop of Ondo; and Most Rev. Anselm Pendo Lawani, Bishop of Ilorin. Likewise, our sincere appreciation goes to the Bishops of the Lagos Province: Most Rev. Peter Kayode Odetoyinbo, Bishop of Abeokuta; and Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, Bishop of Ijebu-Ode.

To the National Catholic Diocesan Priests’ Association (NCDPA) of Ibadan, Oyo, Osogbo, Ekiti, Ilorin and Ondo Dioceses, thank you for journeying with us and for all the ways you offered yourselves. Your dedication to the mission of Christ is a blessing.

A special thanks to the Priests, Religious, and Parishioners of the Host Parish – St. Joseph Catholic Church, Iwere-Ile. Your solid preparation, hospitality and tireless efforts made everyone feel welcome and at home. We also recognize and appreciate the Iwere-Ile Community and the Iwajowa Local Government Area for their immense support and cooperation.

To our dear Religious Communities, thank you for the quiet strength of your prayers and your loving service. We make special mention of the Sisters of St. Louis, particularly those serving at Our Lady Hospital, Iseyin and Oluyoro Hospital, Ibadan and all Doctors and Nurses who lovingly served alongside the Sisters. Our gratitude also goes to the Sisters of St. Michael the Archangel (SSMA), Franciscan Sisters and the Daughters of the Holy Spirit (DHS) for their presence and prayers. 

To the Laity, our witness of faith and commitment to the Church is deeply appreciated – the Laity of the Ibadan Archdiocese, the Laity of Oyo Diocese and other Dioceses, the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of these same Dioceses, the Knights of St. Mulumba and the Ladies of St. Mulumba, as well as John Events & Chairman, whose support and presence were truly valued.

We cannot but make mention of the Seminary Community at SS Peter & Paul Major Seminary, Bodija, Ibadan for your spiritual support and presence. To our vibrant and inspiring youths of Ibadan and Oyo Diocese, thank you for your energy, joy, and faith-filled enthusiasm. You remind us of the hope and future of the Church.

From the depths of our hearts, thank you all. May the Lord who sees all bless you abundantly. May our Blessed Mother continue to intercede for you, and may the joy of the Lord remain your strength always.

 

With Prayers, Sincere Gratitude, and Best Wishes

Most Rev. Gabriel ’Leke Abegunrin

& the Entire Abegunrin Family