It was a joyous gathering of Children, Animators of Holy Childhood Association of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan and Parents, Religious and Priests to celebrate the Christmas/End of the Year party with the Archbishop, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin on Saturday 14th December 2024 at St Luke Catholic Chaplaincy U.C.H, Ibadan Oyo State.

The celebration which began with a Thanksgiving Mass was also organized to commemorate the 75th birthday anniversary of His Grace, Most Rev Dr Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin.

In his homily at the Mass, Archbishop Abegunrin sensitized the children on the Church’s doctrines, sacraments and liturgy. He also enlightened them on the set up of the sanctuary with names of some important features in a Catholic Church setting.

The Chief Shepherd who made his homily an interactive session with the children extensively explained the various sacraments in the Church to them as he also enlightened them on the celebration of Mass.

Archbishop Abegunrin further educated the children that the Sacrament of the Holy orders was in plural because it is meant for three main purposes: Diaconate Ordination (for Deacons), Priestly Ordination (for Priests), and Episcopal Ordination (for Bishops)

In conclusion, His Grace reminded the children that celebration of Christmas is done in remembrance of the birth of Jesus Christ who is our brother, friend and father. "Do you know that Jesus Christ is our brother? Jesus Christ is our brother... He has made Mary our Mother. As Mary is your mother too, therefore, Jesus Christ is our brother through Mother Mary" Archbishop Abegunrin stated.

His Grace acknowledged the choir, altar server and media for their efforts towards the success of the Mass as he also acknowledged that St Luke Catholic Chaplaincy is a progressive Chaplaincy.

His Grace appreciated the Animators of the Holy Childhood Association of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan for their selfless service to the children in the Archdiocese.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Archdiocesan Chaplain of Holy Childhood Association of Ibadan Archdiocese, Fr. Martin Olowoyeye has noted that this year Christmas/End of the Year Party was organized to also celebrate the 75th Birthday of Archbishop Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin.

Fr. Olowoyeye called for prayer for the Archbishop for long life and good health as he equally prayed for more wisdom for the Chief Shepherd to continue to shepherd the fold.

The thanksgiving procession was led by the Chaplain who danced joyfully with the children, Animators, parents and all who were present at the Mass to thank God for the year 2024.

The reception took place after the Mass where different presentations were made and group photographs were taken.