Anthony BAMITEKO

 

St. Mary Cathedral parishioners gathered together to celebrate and showcase their cultural heritage, in appreciation to God for His goodness and mercies during regional harvest on 27th of September, been the last Sunday of the month.

 

More than fifteen different cultures were displayed amongst the congregation. People were seen dressed in their various cultural attires, making the atmosphere more unique and glamorous, and children were also seen regally dressed depicting their regional locations.

 

The Chief Celebrant of the Eucharistic Celebration, V. Rev. Fr. Julius Akinyode gave thanks to God, noting that the previous year’s regional harvest was held outside due to the then ongoing reconstruction work inside the Church.

 

While during the homily, Rev. Fr. Anthony Fasakin implored the faithful to live in harmony and love, because our God is of love and doesn't want division.

 

"Every culture has its own strengths and weaknesses. Identify things that make others better than you and learn from them. Let us learn from Jesus' simplicity and humility, and all His teachings," he noted.

 

Fr. Fasakin also encouraged the congregation to see everyone has a human being and equal. "Don't see yourself being superior to anyone. It is only when you see them as equal that you will love them."

 

The homilist as well used the readings’ lessons to admonish the congregation that they should always take responsibility for their actions and not shift blame. He also asked them to be united in Christ, and not talk about Christ alone, but as well put the teaching of Christ into action.

During the regional harvest thanksgiving proper, the master of the ceremony (MC), called the host community last, and implored every tribe to join the community that housed them all and the land that favour them in appreciation for their hospitality.

 

The second face of the celebration continued within the Church premises as different delicacies were served at various states level. People had the liberty of dinning and wining with one another and visit different states and have a bite of their food served.

 

Thereafter, the Cathedral Administrator, Very Rev. Fr. Julius Akinyode appreciated everyone and specially thanked the CMO that is hosting the harvest this year for a job well done and gave the benediction.