The Catholic Diocese of Oyo was filled with joy and thanksgiving as three priests: Rev. Fr. Francis Oyegbola, Rev. Fr. Leonard Ajereola, Rev. Fr. John Ayanwola  and three deacons: Rev. Sylvester Akinwole, Rev. Sylvester Durowoju, Rev. Gideon Audu were ordained at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Fiditi on 15th February, 2025. The ordination ceremony, presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo was a solemn and spiritually uplifting event, marking a significant milestone in the growth of the Church.

During the ordination Mass, Bishop Emmanuel Badejo prayed for the newly ordained, asking God to strengthen and guide them in their sacred journey. He also prayed for their families, benefactors, and the parishes that supported their formation, seeking God's blessings upon all who contributed to their vocation.

Delivering the homily, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Francis Femi Oladiipo, the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo began by extending greetings to Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, the families of the ordinands, Priests and Religious present, the Kings, His Royal Majesty, Nicholas Oyelami Folarin, the Onidiko of Idiko-Ile; His Royal Majesty Michael Sijuola Oyediran, the Onitile of Itasa; faithful from Benin Republic

Reflecting on John 15:5, where Jesus says, "I am the vine, and you are the branches," Fr. Oladiipo emphasized the importance of remaining spiritually connected to God through faith, prayer, and obedience to His commandments.

He urged the congregation, especially the newly ordained, to reflect on their relationship with God. Quoting John 14:15, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments," he emphasized that true discipleship is demonstrated through love, obedience, and service to God and humanity. Fr. Oladiipo also reminded the ordinands that priesthood is not for personal gain but a sacred gift meant for the service of God and His people. He urged them to remain obedient to the Bishop and the Church's teachings, treat all people with love, respect, equality, and serve with humility, following the example of Christ, the Good Shepherd.

And to the newly ordained deacons, he emphasized the importance of embracing their duties with diligence, while advising the new priests to uphold the dignity of their sacred calls. He encouraged them to be faithful in their ministry, knowing that their mission is to bring Christ to the people.

The ordination was a joyful celebration filled with prayers, thanksgiving, and renewed commitment to God’s work. The entire Catholic Diocese of Oyo rejoices in welcoming its new priests and deacons, praying that they may serve with faith, humility, and love.

Indeed, to God alone belongs all glory!