Amb. Edith ISIDAHOMEN

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The President of the Archdiocese of Ibadan Catholic Women Organisation (AICWO), Lady Clara Yemi Oke, has expressed profound gratitude to God for her healing and recovery, four months after she suffered a fracture.

The thanksgiving celebration was held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Yemetu, Ibadan, with family, friends, and members of the Catholic Women Organisation joining in a vibrant and joyful procession to thank God for His faithfulness.

The homily at the thanksgiving Mass was delivered by Rev. Fr. Charles Onyema, who reflected on the unchanging need for dependence on God at all stages of life. “Proper introspection will reveal that everyone depends on God,” he said, referencing the famous words of St. Augustine: “Man is a beggar before God.”

 

Fr. Onyema emphasized that while the world often glorifies self-reliance, true freedom and peace come from total dependence on God. “Only God is truly independent. Every human, regardless of status or strength, needs God,” he declared.

 

Speaking passionately on the place of prayer in the life of every believer, he highlighted the example of Jesus Christ, whose ministry, from baptism to crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension was deeply rooted in prayer.

“Jesus started with prayer and ended with prayer. At every interval, he prayed,” the priest affirmed.

 

He went on to cite Biblical figures such as Abraham, whose deep intimacy with God made his intercessions powerful and effective. “Prayer is a conversation between man and God. But many today are too distracted or burdened to listen,” he said.

 

Fr. Onyema commended Lady Clara Yemi Oke for her evident commitment to prayer and encouraged her to continue nurturing her spiritual relationship with God. He urged the congregation to move beyond routine prayers and seek deeper intimacy with the Lord. “We must not only pray, but live a life of prayer,” he concluded.

 

In her emotional vote of thanks, Lady Clara Yemi Oke gave all glory to God for her healing journey, acknowledging the divine protection and strength she received throughout her recovery. “God did not leave me alone. He protected me from all evil,” she testified.

She expressed sincere appreciation to the Church, her family, friends, and members of the Catholic Women Organization for their unflinching support and prayers.

 

Lady Clara was joined in the thanksgiving procession by members of the AICWO, fellow parishioners, and well-wishers who came to celebrate God’s goodness in her life.

The ceremony ended on a joyous note with thanksgiving songs and prayers, as the Church rejoiced with one of its own who has seen the hand of God in a time of physical trial and emerged with a deeper testimony of faith.