Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you all in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As we mark this year’s Vocation Sunday in our Archdiocese, I write to you with deep pastoral concern and great hope for the future of the Church in Ibadan and beyond.

Vocation Sunday is not merely an occasion to reflect on priestly or religious vocations, but a time to deepen our understanding of what it means for each of us to be called by God.

A vocation is more than a career or a life path. It is a response to a personal call from the Lord, who lovingly says to each of us, “Come, follow me.” Whether He calls us to the priesthood, to religious life, to the married life, or to single service in the world, every vocation is a gift — and a task — rooted in love and aimed at the good of others.

This year, within the context of the Jubilee Year of Hope, we are reminded that our vocations must be lived with joy, perseverance, and courage. The Church needs men and women of hope — those who will stand firm in faith despite the many uncertainties and trials of our time. We need witnesses who will remind the world that God still calls, and that a life given to Him is a life of fulfillment and grace.

 

In the Archdiocese of Ibadan, we continue to thank God for the gift of those who have answered His call and are serving the Church as priests, religious brothers and sisters, catechists, and committed laypersons. Their lives inspire us and show us that God is still at work in the hearts of His people. But we must also recognize the urgent need for more labourers in the vineyard.

 

I appeal especially to our young people: You are not too young to begin asking the Lord what He wants of you. The world may offer many promises, but only God offers true meaning. Do not be afraid to give your life to Him. If you feel drawn to the priesthood or religious life, speak with a trusted priest, sister, or Vocation Director. Pray, listen, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you.

 

To parents, I say: Your encouragement and openness are essential. Support your children if they show interest in a religious vocation. Speak positively about priests and religious; pray together as a family; and keep your homes open to the possibility that God may be calling someone in your midst.

 

To our parishes and schools: Create an environment where vocations can be heard and nurtured. Teach our youth the beauty of a life lived for others. Celebrate vocations as part of the Church’s mission and future.

 

Let us all remember that promoting vocations is not the responsibility of a few, but a mission entrusted to the entire People of God. Each of us, by our words and actions, can inspire others to discover and embrace God’s call.

 

As we celebrate Vocation Sunday, I ask you to join me in praying for an outpouring of vocations in our Archdiocese. May our hearts remain open to God’s invitation, and may we always walk faithfully in the path He has set before us.

 

May Mary, Queen of Vocations and our Mother, accompany all those discerning their calls, and may the Lord continue to bless our Archdiocese with holy and generous servants for His Church.

 

Yours in the service of Christ and His Church,

+ Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin

Archbishop of Ibadan