Tunmise Emmanuel AGBORANDUN and Blessing SIKIGHA.

 

On Friday, 26th of September, 2025 the parishioners of St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Ashipa gathered to witness a historic moment as the Archbishop of Ibadan Archdiocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin blessed and unveiled the newly constructed Marian Grotto. The ceremony was a joyous occasion, filled with prayer, song, and celebration.

The event began with the Archbishop's arrival, accompanied by the choir's melodious singing and the warm welcome of the parishioners. After being greeted by the parish priest, the Archbishop proceeded to the grotto, where he blessed the water and salt, symbolizing purification and protection. The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the Marian Grotto, which was built by Mrs Olatundun Cecilia Kadri JP.

The visiting priest, Fr. Isaac Abu OMV read the gospel during the celebration, even as the Archbishop noted during his homily, that the grotto serves as a reminder of Mary's motherly love and protection, guiding us towards her Son, Jesus Christ.

The Archbishop blessed the grotto, prayed for God's protection and blessings upon the parish and its parishioners. The Marian statue's crown was blessed by the Archbishop, and was then crowned by the Parish Priest, Fr. Benjamin Unachukwu OMV. The Archbishop also blessed religious articles donated by the family to be shared among the parishioners, emphasizing the importance of generosity and community sharing. The ceremony was followed by group photographs’ snapping, unveiling the commemorative plaque, with the Archbishop taking time to interact with parishioners and blessing the children.

The construction of the Marian Grotto is a significant milestone for Saint Anthony's Catholic Church, Ashipa, providing a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The event was attended by a large number of parishioners, who expressed their gratitude to Mama Kadri and the parish leadership for making this dream a reality.

The ceremony concluded with a sense of joy and gratitude, as the community came together to celebrate this new addition to their spiritual life.

A MOMENT OF JOY AND GRATITUDE

The Dedication of the Pariah's Marian Grotto is a testament to the faith and generosity of the parishioners, particularly the donor's family. As one of the parishioners aptly put it, "This grotto is a place where we can come to pray and seek the intercession of our Blessed Mother." The ceremony was a beautiful expression of the community's devotion to Mary and their commitment to deepening their faith. As the parish looks to the future, the Marian Grotto will serve as a constant reminder of God's love and mercy, inspiring devotion and prayer among all who visit. May the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary continue to bring guidance and protection to the parishioners of Saint Anthony's Catholic Church, Ashipa and the Archdiocese of Ibadan. Amen.