The National Convention of the Catholic Men’s Organization of Nigeria tagged “IBADAN 2024” was held between October 25 and October 27 at Church of Ascension, Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Archbishop, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin on behalf of the Clergy and Laity of Ibadan Archdiocese welcomed the National CMO to their Convention.

The convention also witnessed a lecture with the theme “Catechesis: Pathway to Overall Growth of Lay Apostolate Groups in the Body of Christ (the Church)” presented by Fr. Anthony Oluwagbemiga Igbekele, Rector, SS Peter and Paul Major Seminary, Bodija, Ibadan. The Rector noted that the topic was timely because CMO group is an important lay apostolate group in the Church and that when the organization becomes informed and formed in the right Ecclesiastical understanding and attitudes, it becomes formed formators of others.

 

On Pathway, Fr. Igbekele stated thus: “Pathway is a path or route leading to a specific goal, destination, or outcome. Scripture talks of the word of God as a light to the path, that is, a lamp to the feet and a light to the path. God guides those who love him along the best pathway for their lives (Ps32:8). Consequently, the word of God is important when we talk of path or pathway (Ps119:105). God makes straight the path of the one who trusts in him (Prov.3:6).

 

Similarly, on Catechesis, Fr. Igbekele has this to say: "Catechesis is a school of faith." - Pope John Paul II Catechesis could be described as “instruction and formation in the Christian faith, teaching the principles and practices of Christianity.”[1] The word catechesis comes from the Greek meaning "to echo the teaching.”

More specifically, the laity has the responsibility to renew and perfect the temporal order, hence Laity has apostolates in the Church and in the world; they are called to conform their lives to their faith and build up society in the name of the Church. They have the responsibility to engage in individual and group apostolate; they have the responsibility to bear witness to Christ in the world

Laity needs training for their Apostolate so that they can become effective. They should be formed in their engagement with culture, renewal of the temporal order, and specialize in works of charity and mercy.[2]

 

 

The Rector going further explained that the call to mission is a universal call given by the Lord to all believers. Every member of the Church has a responsibility to make a solid contribution to the mission. Due to their baptismal dignity, the lay faithful participate in the mission of Christ and of the Church by witnessing to the Lord in the circumstances of daily life. Catechesis is fundamental to the knowledge of the faith and the participation in the mission of Christ. Lay Apostolate groups, through which the laity carries on their mission, become more effective when the lay faithful are solidly grounded in catechesis. It is, therefore, important that every lay person, for effective witnessing, pays close and deep attention to catechesis and the understanding of the faith. This Conference of the Catholic Men’s Organization of Nigeria, is, therefore, a right step in the right direction. May this Conference bring about renewed interest in learning more about our faith commitment, and having learnt about our faith, may we be empowered to share it with others.

Earlier in his welcome address by the CMON National President, Prince Faith UcheIwuorisha JP, KSM, he thanked Ibadan Archidiocese for hosting the convention and also appreciated His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin, The Resource Person, V. Rev. Fr. Anthony Igbekele and CMO from across the country.

Awards were also given to some deserving individuals at the event. Some of the awardees included: Chief Sir Orji Michael, Engr. John Nchekwube C, Sir. Engr. Dr. Anthony Adewumi Macgregor, Prof. Ibi Ajayi, Hon. Justice Peter Olabisi Ige JR Rtd amongst others.

The event was closed with Holy Mass at PI Chapel, Bodija, Ibadan. The Mass was celebrated by the National Chaplain of NCMO, Rev. Fr. Paul Ike Nwanegbo, PhD, assisted by the Archdiocesan Chaplain, V. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ajewole.

 

 

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