The Ibadan Archdiocesan Advent Pilgrimage, held at the serene Eleta Grotto from Friday, December 6th to Saturday, December 7th, 2024, was a profound spiritual experience for hundreds of faithful.

The Archbishop, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Abegunrin declared the pilgrimage open, unveiling the theme, "Mary Kept All These Things in Her Heart" (Luke 2:19). This poignant reflection on the Blessed Virgin Mary's unwavering faith and devotion set the tone for the event.

The two-day pilgrimage featured a diverse range of spiritual activities, including:

Praise and worship sessions that lifted the spirits of the attendees. A penitential service and confessions, offering opportunities for spiritual cleansing. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, fostering a deeper connection with the Divine. Rosary procession, seeking the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Blessing of water and religious articles, imbuing the faithful with sacred symbols of devotion. Intercessory prayers, uniting the congregation in supplication. A thought-provoking drama presentation by CAEAN (Catholic Association of Entertainers and Artists of Nigeria), creatively illustrating the theme. The Holy Mass, culminating in the celebration of the Eucharist.

Friar Paul Akpomie OP delivered an inspiring talk, expounding on the theme. He encouraged the faithful to emulate the Blessed Virgin Mary's exemplary qualities: Quiet reflection, unwavering faith, and devoted obedience. "As we journey through Advent," Friar Akpomie emphasized, "let us draw strength from Mary's steadfast heart." He noted that every moment we recite the Holy Rosary, we reflect on the mystery of our salvation. He identified that Mary, pondering everything in her heart signifies the depth of her Character and the qualities of her faith.

Expatiating on these, He taught that Mary was a very quiet lady, showing greatly the assurance of faith she had in God, she was a thoughtful being, having great reflective spirit. Above all, Mary had a spiritual receptivity, seeing the hand of God in everything that happened to her.

Taking keen look at Mary's Faith, Fr. Paul identified that pondering everything in her heart meant that she reflected daily to understand the words of God in her life. It is not a problem to seek to know more, He noted. Furthermore, Mary confirmed her faith daily in the ordinary events of her life. He challenged the faithful to allow their faith to be lived in the kind of life they find themselves. Whether you are a wife, husband, student proper, will you still be of great faith?

In his homily at the Mass, Rev. Fr. Julius Sangokeye called the faithful to go about doing good just as Jesus did in the gospel reading of the day (cf. Mt. 9:35-10:1-5,6-8)

The Archbishop expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, contributed, and made the pilgrimage a resounding success. "Your presence," he said, "is a testament to your devotion and commitment to our Lord."

The Archdiocesan Advent Pilgrimage at Eleta Grotto served as a powerful reminder of the true essence of the season: Spiritual reflection, renewal, and preparation for the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.