Michael OKEOLA

 

The Catholic Diocese of Oyo continued the celebration of the Ruby (40th) Priestly Anniversary of its Chief Shepherd, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, with a transformative three-day Marriage and Family Life Camp for Couples held at St. Paul Pastoral Centre, Awe. The event brought together couples, priests, religious sisters and children for a weekend of spiritual renewal, learning and reflection aimed at strengthening Catholic family life across the diocese.

 

The camp opened with the theme “Those Who Hope in the Lord Shall Be Renewed” from Isaiah 40:31, setting the tone for the program. The opening ceremony was attended by Rev. Sr. Mary-Assumpta Taiwo, SSMA, Director of Religious Education; Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Olabode, Chairman of the Bishop’s Anniversary Committee; Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu; Catechist Fakorede Jacob; and Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Agu, Diocesan Youth Coordinator. Welcoming the couples on behalf of the Bishop, Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Olabode reminded them that the camp forms an important part of the Bishop’s Ruby Milestone celebration and encouraged them to engage deeply with the teachings.

 

A major highlight of the first day was the presentation by Rev. Fr. Martin Badejo on “The Social Media and Today’s Family.” He explored the profound impact of digital technology on marital relationships, noting that while social media help families stay connected and share opportunities, it also threaten face-to-face communication, foster emotional distance, encourage unrealistic comparisons and has become a source of tension and infidelity in some homes. He emphasized that the family, the “domestic Church,” must consciously restore moments of real human interaction. Drawing on the teachings of Popes Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis, he urged families to use social media responsibly, set boundaries at home and prioritize meaningful communication and mutual trust. Couples appreciated the rich insights and looked forward to the remaining days.

 

Day Two began with a solemn Opening Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu, with the homily delivered by Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Olabode. In his message, he reminded the couples that prayer is the heart of Christian marriage. Reflecting on the parable of the unjust judge, he stressed the importance of perseverance in prayer, urging couples to pray together always. He noted that “prayer is medicine, prayer is therapy, prayer is life,” and encouraged families to enjoy prayer as a privilege rather than see it as a burden. He reminded them that a family that prays together stays together in unity, joy and divine protection.

 

The day continued with lectures on health and well-being. Dr. Mrs. Salami Benedicta Adefunmike JP delivered a lively session on food and nutrition, reminding the participants that they are “a product of what they eat,” and encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles built around natural foods. This was followed by an equally engaging session on mental health and anger management by Catechist (Mrs.) Ige Margaret Adebukola, who explained the importance of emotional stability, communication, and self-awareness for peaceful family life.

 

In addition to the lectures, Day Two provided a vibrant and enjoyable afternoon for the couples through sport sessions, fun competitions and interactive activities designed to strengthen marital friendship and teamwork. Couples participated in light sporting events, team-building games and bonding exercises that encouraged laughter, communication and partnership. These activities became one of the most memorable aspects of the camp, as couples relaxed, interacted with each other and formed new friendships within the diocesan community.

 

Later in the afternoon, Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo arrived, accompanied by Rev. Fr. Anthony Olanrewaju, Rev. Fr. Julius Olayinka, Rev. Fr. Thomas Popola and Rev. Fr. Raphael Akinyemi. Religious Sisters and children were also present, enriching the atmosphere with joy and unity. Addressing the couples, the Bishop emphasized that families are the foundation of both the Church and society. He reminded them that the primary purpose of Catholic marriage is the happiness and salvation of the couple, while children remain blessings from God. He described marriage as a journey of companionship and total commitment sustained by faith, hope and charity. The Bishop assured couples that the Church stands firmly with them and urged them never to consider divorce or separation, emphasizing that their marriage is a divine mission entrusted to them by Christ. Couples later enjoyed a warm meet-and-greet, during which the Bishop presented gifts and offered personal blessings.

 

The third day of the camp culminated in a joyful Closing Mass attended by couples, priests, religious sisters and children. In his homily, Bishop Badejo delivered a rich and heartfelt message centered on Christian hope, mutual support and the sacred responsibility of married couples. Despite the day’s readings speaking of judgment and the passing nature of the world, the Bishop emphasized that God calls His people to live with purpose, joy and renewed dedication. He reminded couples that they are precious to the Church and collaborate with God in shaping the future through their homes. He encouraged them to embrace sacrifice, solidarity and unwavering commitment, affirming that no marriage survives on “50/50 love,” but through shared strengths and acceptance of each other’s weaknesses.

 

Quoting Pope Francis, he urged families to practice three essential phrases daily: “Thank you,” “I’m sorry,” and “Excuse me, please,” noting that these simple words can resolve many family problems. He encouraged couples to cultivate the habit of prayer not only as speaking to God but also listening to Him in silence, especially through Adoration. As a powerful symbol of unity, he urged couples to keep “holding each other by the hand” as they journey together in faith.

 

The camp concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Rev. Sr. Mary-Assumpta Taiwo, SSMA, who appreciated the Bishop for his fatherly presence and encouragement, and thanked Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu, the priests, resource persons and all participants for their contributions. Couples departed renewed, strengthened and filled with gratitude as the Ruby Anniversary celebrations of Bishop Badejo continues across the Diocese.