Vincent OBANIYI.

"Be strong in prayer, be strong in the Word of God, and in service," urged Bishop Emmanuel Badejo of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo as he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation on 30 candidates on Divine Mercy Sunday at Saint Bernadine Catholic Church, Oyo.

Delivering his homily during the Mass, Bishop Badejo emphasized that the reception of the sacrament signifies not only the growth of the Church but also the ongoing presence and control of God over the world. He encouraged the candidates and the congregation to cultivate a spirit of gratitude, acknowledging the blessings they enjoy as a way to strengthen their ability to face life's challenges.

Addressing the parishioners, the Bishop advised against approaching Church’s activities with a somber attitude, saying, "Stop coming to Church on Easter Sunday with Good Friday faces; you should always rejoice." He reminded the faithful that the ultimate goal of Christianity is to attain heaven and join the angels in eternal praise of God.

Highlighting the significance of Divine Mercy Sunday, Bishop Badejo called on parishioners to forgive those who have wronged them, stressing that "peace, like forgiveness, can change the world." He also charged the newly confirmed candidates to "fan into flame the gifts of the Holy Spirit," drawing from 2 Timothy 1:6–9.

In his remarks, Dr. Theo Ajobiewe, Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council, welcomed and thanked the Bishop for his visit. During the celebration, Bishop Badejo presented the parish with a complete set of Sunday Mass lectionaries written in Braille, intended to support visually impaired parishioners. The gift was gratefully acknowledged by Rev. Fr. Anthony Olanrewaju, the Parish Priest and concelebrant at the Mass.