Joseph IYAJI

In a heartwarming display of appreciation and encouragement for dedicated service in the Church, the Parish Priest of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral Church, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Adeyemi, on Sunday honoured several committed Church workers and volunteers with symbolic gifts aimed at strengthening their Catholic faith and inspiring continued devotion to God’s work.

 

The presentation took place during the concluding session of the 2026 Pentecost celebration programme themed “Pentecost Evening Praise and Prayer”, held at the Church auditorium in Lagere, Ile-Ife, Osun State, at about 6pm on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

 

Catholic Independent News gathered that the initiative formed part of the parish’s effort to recognize and encourage silent labourers whose sacrifices and dedication continue to sustain the spiritual growth of the Church community.

 

Volunteers Recognized for Outstanding Commitment

 

Among those honoured were the voluntary Prayer Leaders, who were specially recognized for their selfless evangelical activities and tireless commitment to leading prayer sessions both within the parish and in rural communities.

Speaking during the presentation, Fr. Adeyemi reportedly commended their unwavering zeal in spreading the Gospel and strengthening the spiritual lives of many faithful, especially in underserved areas where missionary efforts remain essential.

 

The parish Catechist was also honoured for his dedication to catechetical instruction, and commitment to the training and formation of catechumens preparing for full membership in the Catholic Church.

 

In the same vein, Akahi News Media team, received recognition for its consistent livestreaming of Sunday Masses and other Church activities on digital platforms including YouTube and Facebook, a move that has helped extend the reach of the parish’s evangelization efforts beyond the physical congregation.

 

The gifts presented reportedly included spiritually uplifting items and symbolic faith materials intended to encourage the recipients in their various apostolates.

 

Encouraging Service Through Appreciation

 

Observers at the event noted that the recognition served not only as a reward for dedication but also as motivation for other parishioners to actively participate in Church service and evangelization.

Many members of the congregation applauded the gesture, describing it as a thoughtful and inspiring way to appreciate individuals who often work quietly behind the scenes for the growth of the Church.

One parishioner who spoke with newsmen after the programme stated that recognizing volunteers publicly helps to strengthen unity, commitment, and morale among church workers.

 

According to the parishioner, such encouragement reminds the faithful that every sincere act of service rendered to God and humanity is valued by the Church.

 

Pentecost Celebration Ends on Joyful Note

 

The Pentecost Evening Praise and Prayer programme featured moments of intense worship, praise sessions, prayers for renewal, and spiritual exhortations centred on the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

The event attracted numerous faithful from within and outside the parish, many of whom described the gathering as spiritually enriching and impactful.

 

The gesture by Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Adeyemi has since generated positive reactions among parishioners, with many describing it as a practical example of servant leadership and pastoral encouragement within the Church.