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Michael OKEOLA

 

‎The Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of Oyo Deanery held its annual Christmas Carols service on December 16, 2025, in an atmosphere of deep faith, reflection, and renewed hope. The colourful but yet solemn gathering, themed “Emmanuel, Our Hope/Emmanueli, Ireti Wa” (God Is With Us, Our Hope), brought together women, clergy, and faithful who reflected on the true meaning of Christmas amidst the realities of present-day challenges.

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‎Welcoming the CWO members and guests, the Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, described the women as the “glory of the society,” commending their steadfast commitment to the Church and family life. In a moving moment of remembrance, the Bishop drew attention to the passage of time and the absence of some familiar faces who were present at the previous gatherings. He specifically recalled the late Bishop Emeritus of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun, inviting the entire congregation to rise for a standing ovation followed by a minute of silence in honour of his cherished memory. Bishop Badejo emphasized the sacredness of the Christmas season, reminding the women that the carols service was above all a moment of prayer, thanksgiving, and joyful anticipation of Christ’s birth.

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‎The highlight of the programme was the message delivered by Rev. Fr. John Adebamiji Irekiigbe, who spoke powerfully on the theme of hope rooted in the mystery of Emmanuel. Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, he reminded the faithful that Christmas proclaims a God who is not distant but present in every aspect of human life. According to him, Emmanuel means that God is with His people in their homes, in motherhood, in waiting, in uncertainty, and in hope.

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‎Fr. Irekiigbe did not shy away from addressing the harsh realities confronting many families and communities. He spoke candidly about economic hardship, noting how basic necessities have become sources of anxiety and how many struggle daily to provide even the simplest meals. He also acknowledged the hidden pains carried by many, observing that behind smiling faces are often stories of brokenness, marital challenges, workplace struggles, and unspoken sorrow. Touching on the issue of insecurity, he remarked on the atmosphere of fear that has become common, where even sudden sounds can provoke panic and anxiety.

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‎Despite these challenges, the priest firmly reassured the congregation that Christian hope remains unshaken because it is anchored in Christ. He reminded them that Jesus understands human suffering fully, having shared in every form of trial, and that the hope of Christmas is not the absence of pain but the comforting presence of God within it.

Quoting the Scripture, he affirmed that hope in Christ does not disappoint, encouraging the faithful to truly believe the words they sing during Advent and Christmas. He concluded by reminding everyone that hope is not an abstract idea but a person, and that person is Emmanuel.

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‎The carols service came to a warm and grateful close with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Elizabeth Anagwaonye, the Oyo Deanery President, who expressed sincere appreciation to Bishop Badejo for his pastoral leadership, fatherly care, and for hosting the memorable event. She also thanked the priests and religious present, with special appreciation to Rev. Sr. Mary-Assumpta Taiwo, SSMA, the Director of Religious Education and the Diocesan Advisor of the CWO, as well as all members whose presence and participation made the celebration meaningful.

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‎The programme concluded with a final prayer led by Rev. Fr. Leo Eke, after which Bishop Badejo imparted his blessing on the congregation.