Tunde BANKOLE

 

St Anthony Catholic Church Iwo, Osun State has organized a liturgical seminar for Liturgical functionaries in the parish on Saturday 15th November, 2025. The liturgical seminar was anchored by Rev. Fr. Joseph Baranjoko, the Associate priest of Holy Cross Catholic Church Ikire and was attended by members of liturgical groups like Choir, Altar servers, Church warden, Lector and Media team of the Church.

Fr Baranjoko in his reflection titled “Transformation From Service” said that the reward of any service rendered in the Church is transformation. “If you are doing anything in the house of God, what should be in your mind is transformation. A change in mind, a change in character not a change in colour.” He said. 

Speaking further, Fr Baranjoko said the liturgical functionaries are privileged to be chosen among the people of God to serve in His church. And he charged them to put their best in the service they render in the Church and do the work according to the mind of Christ who is the owner of the work.

He said they will gain a lot of blessings from God if they do the work very well but they should desist from helping themselves through dubious means or demanding for reward from people before they render their service in the Church.

For Liturgical Functionaries to be transformed and get reward from their services, Fr Baranjoko said they must worship with obedience. They must obey the Master, the Church and the Parish Priest. Also they must render their services with mercy and love. According to the man of God, ‘anything you do in the Church without love is useless and have no reward.’ If people want to appreciate you let them give you voluntarily without demanding for it. He added.

The priest reiterated that the worship they give must come from the depth of their hearts and render the worthy worship and service that is capable of transforming their lives and the entire congregation. He admonished them to avoid being sign post that is drawing people to God but far from God itself.

He said Altar servers should allow their closeness to Christ on the altar to transform them. The lectors should allow the word of God they proclaim to transform their lives and Choir should let the songs they sing transform their lives and the entire congregation.

The seminar featured exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, praying of Rosary, confession and celebration of Holy Mass by Fr. Joseph Baranjoko and Fr. Joseph Adeniyi, the Associate priest of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Iwo.