Adekola OJERINDE

As preparations begin for the annual Christmas Party with inmates of the Agodi Correctional Centre, the Director of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) Ibadan has commenced parish visits across the Archdiocese, calling on Catholics and people of goodwill to support this year’s celebration — an event that has become a symbol of hope, compassion, and inclusion for those behind bars.

Speaking about the motivation behind the outreach, the Director, Rev. Fr. Charles Ajibaye explained that the initiative is rooted in the need for collaboration and support from benefactors and kindhearted individuals, noting that “the work cannot be done without coalition and support from people of goodwill. We need the help of others who can support the Christmas inmate celebration financially.”

This year’s edition, he said, carries a special spiritual significance as it coincides with the 2025 Jubilee Year of the Catholic Church, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.” In line with this global celebration, the Church has dedicated December 14 as the “Jubilee of Prisoners”, a moment to extend the spirit of hope and redemption to those in confinement.
However, JDPC Ibadan will integrate this commemoration into its annual Christmas Party with inmates to mark the season of love and renewal in a grand way.

“If there is life, there is hope,”
— the Director emphasized, echoing the message he shares with parishioners during each visit.

Since the appeals to parishes began on October 26, the Director, in company of Rev. Fr. Felix M.AFR, Parish Priest of St. Augustine, Ojoo, has so far visited St. Augustine, Ojoo and plans to visit more parishes, including Christ the King Church, Odo - Ona; Good Shepherd, Felele; Divine Mercy, Monatan; Church of the Ascension, Bodija; St. Rita, Aromata; St. Thomas, Agbowo; and St. Patrick, Bashorun, among others.

He expressed deep gratitude for the hospitality and generosity received so far, describing the responses as “overwhelming.”

“I am always grateful to all the parishes and parish priests who have welcomed us warmly. The generosity of parishioners is truly heartwarming,” he said.

Reflecting on standout moments from the visits, he shared that he is often moved by the readiness of people to come to the aid of inmates, noting that many parishioners are eager to offer help once they realize the importance of giving prisoners a second chance at life.

“I’m always surprised that not a lot of people think inmates don’t deserve help or that they deserve to die there for their crimes. But once they understand the mission, their compassion shines through,” he added.

The support being sought includes financial contributions, medical supplies, material donations, and volunteer participation — all of which will contribute to the success of this year’s celebration that also features a medical outreach for the inmates.

“Please support us when you see us,” the Director appealed.
“Even if we don’t come to your Church, you can still find us at St. Patrick, Bashorun, or reach out to us through our social media platforms.”

With the growing enthusiasm from parishes and benefactors, JDPC Ibadan is confident that this year’s Christmas Party, themed around the Jubilee of Prisoners will rekindle faith, restore hope, and reaffirm the shared humanity that unites all, both inside and outside the prison walls.

---

About the JDPC Christmas Party

Every December, JDPC Ibadan hosts a Christmas celebration with inmates of the Agodi Correctional Centre, providing food, gifts, and words of encouragement. The outreach also includes a medical component aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of the inmates while sharing the message of love and renewal that defines the season.