Michael OKEOLA

 

The 2025 Marian Pilgrimage of the Oyo Deanery was held at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Cathedral, Asogo, Oyo, with remarkable devotion and an impressive turnout of 822 pilgrims, who gathered to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary and deepen their spiritual journey. The event opened with uplifting praise led by Mr. Olanipekun Olakunle, after which Fr. John Irekiigbe encouraged all pilgrims to participate actively in the day’s spiritual exercises.

 

The Dean of Oyo Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Odu Falade, warmly welcomed His Lordship, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, alongside the priests present, religious sisters, and the entire assembly of pilgrims. In his address, he reminded the faithful that the goal of every pilgrimage is to draw closer to Christ, deepen understanding of His saving mystery, and prepare ultimately for eternal life. He then introduced Fr. Alex Olabisi Onifade, who led the Eucharistic Adoration that followed.

 

A series of reflections enriched the day’s programme. The first talk was delivered by Fr. Anthony Olanrewaju, who spoke on Mary’s availability to God and her sensitivity to the needs of others. Drawing from Luke’s Gospel, he emphasized that though God’s plans may be challenging, they are always good. Using Mary’s difficult experiences—including Joseph’s initial plan to leave her quietly—he highlighted her courage, listening heart, and unwavering trust in God. He encouraged pilgrims to imitate Mary’s compassion and readiness to support others, especially in moments of trial.

 

The Rosary procession followed, led by the Holy Childhood Association of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Awe, together with pilgrims from St. Bernadine Catholic Church, Owode, Oyo. The Angelus was led by Egunjobi Rosemary of Christ the King Catholic Church.

The second talk, presented by Catechist Bolarinwa James, focused on respect for elders, drawing from Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth. He stressed that greeting, visiting, and caring for elders are virtues rooted in Scripture and upheld by Yoruba culture. Honouring elders, he said, is not only cultural but a spiritual obligation that attracts God’s blessing.

 

A short question-and-answer session moderated by Fr. Francis Ogunsola followed. Afterwards, the Religious Sisters lifted the assembly with Marian hymns before the third reflection, delivered by Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Agu, USOA, Diocesan Youth Coordinator. She spoke on Mary’s perseverance at the foot of the Cross, recalling the emotional pain, ridicule, and fear Mary endured throughout Christ’s passion, yet remaining steadfast. She urged pilgrims to embrace perseverance, trust in God’s timing, and welcome Mary’s powerful intercession into their families and personal lives.

 

The afternoon session began with a brief break, followed by Marian hymns, the Divine Mercy Prayer led by the Catholic Women Organisation of St. Stephen Catholic Church, Apaara, an offering for the poor and needy, and Benediction by Fr. Alex Onifade.

 

The pilgrimage reached its peak with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Badejo in honour of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. The liturgy, themed “All Generations Shall Call Me Blessed – Mary, Mother of Hope,” featured readers Salami Francis (St. Anthony, Ilora), John Mary (Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral), Michael Obasuyi, and Fr. Matthew Oladosu.

 

In his homily, Bishop Badejo described human life as a sacred journey, with heaven as the true destination. He reminded the faithful that Mary is honoured above all women because she surrendered completely to God’s will and allowed the Holy Spirit to guide her life. Ignoring Mary’s role, he said, is akin to ignoring a divinely chosen companion who helps believers navigate the challenges of faith.

 

The Bishop warned that the greatest adversary Christians face today is not only external temptation but the “devil within”—the internal struggles, weaknesses, and distractions that distance people from God. Drawing from Isaiah and Luke, he urged the faithful to renew their openness to the Holy Spirit, imitate Mary’s daily “yes” to God, and carry the Word of God with conviction into their families and communities.

 

Bishop Badejo expressed joy and gratitude for the massive turnout, noting that this year’s pilgrimage surpassed expectations. He gave his blessing to all pilgrims and wished them a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance.

 

The 2025 Oyo Deanery Marian Pilgrimage concluded in an atmosphere of deep faith, unity, and renewed devotion, as pilgrims returned home strengthened in hope and inspired by the example of the Blessed Mother.