Amb. Edith ISIDAHOMEN

 

 

The 2026 Cathedraticum of Igboora Deanery was held on Saturday, 28th March, 2026 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Igboora. The Mass drew priests, religious, seminarians, and lay faithful from across the deanery in a spiritually uplifting celebration.

 

 

The Chief Celebrant was the Archbishop, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin and concelebrated by all the priests present at the Mass.

 

 

In his homily, Fr. John Ademoye delivered a deeply reflective message on the true meaning of Christian giving and responsibility.

 

 

He reiterated that giving to God must go beyond routine, stressing that authentic giving must involve sacrifice.

 

 

According to him, God is not moved by the size of a gift alone, but by the depth of sacrifice, sincerity, and love behind it. He challenged the faithful to examine their attitude towards giving—whether they give out of convenience or genuine devotion.

 

 

The homilist further explained that giving in the Church is never empty or transactional, as he said such giving highlights the spiritual dimension of giving, where both the giver and the receiver are united in grace.

 

 

In his address and vote of thanks, the Dean of Igboora Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Vincent Alabi, described the celebration as the final Cathedraticum Mass for the Archdiocese in 2026. He expressed profound gratitude to Archbishop Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin for his fatherly leadership and presence.

 

 

Fr. Alabi also appreciated the Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Gregory Oyelami, as well as Deans of other deaneries, all priests of Igboora Deanery, visiting priests, religious male and female, seminarians, and the lay faithful for their commitment and participation.

 

 

In his own address, Archbishop Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin thanked the parishioners of St. Anne Catholic Church, Igboora, for hosting the Cathedraticum and commended the entire Igboora Deanery for their hospitality and organization.

 

The Archbishop noted that the ongoing construction of the Church stands as a symbol of hope and growth for the community of God's people. He also recognized the impressive presence of schoolchildren at the Mass, praising their active participation and enthusiasm.

 

Speaking on daily life, the Archbishop lamented the increasing lack of time for rest and relaxation in society. He urged the faithful to consciously create time to rest, especially after work, emphasizing that balance is essential for both physical and spiritual well-being. His Grace also encouraged the faithful to remain steadfast in their faith and continue to support the mission of the Church through active participation and generosity.

 

The celebration featured vibrant liturgical music, processions, and strong communal participation, marking a fitting conclusion to the 2026 Cathedraticum across the Archdiocese.