Rev. Fr. Anthony Omolade has reminded the priests that their mission make meaning, only in the Church.

The priest made this reminder on Saturday, 24th August 2024 during the 5th priestly ordination anniversary thanksgiving Mass of the Archdiocesan Secretary and Parish Priest of St. Gabriel Mokola, Ibadan, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Eseola; the Editor of Catholic Weekly Independent and Assistant Parish Priest of St. Gabriel, Mokola, Rev. Fr. Peter Ibimiluyi; the Secretary to the Archbishop Emeritus, Rev. Fr. Michael Olayemi and the Parish Priest of St. Martin De Porres, Ajobo, Ibadan, Rev. Fr. Christopher Olupooye.

The thanksgiving Mass hosted by St. Martin de Porres had fifteen other priests concelebrating with the celebrating priests.

Fr. Omolade in his homily rejoiced with the priests and their families for celebrating five years in priesthood working and remaining faithful, though not perfect. He added that there is joy in serving in God’s temple (Psalm 84:1-4)

The homilist reminded them that God found them out, not because they were perfect but He chose them because they made themselves available. Using the Vatican II document, he further explained the duties of a priest to them, adding that a priest is on an assignment that is continuous.

Fr. Omolade stated that while celebrating the Eucharist, it is not as a community of friends but as an enterprise of divine mission; as people encountered Jesus in the sacrifice. He thanked God for the souls the celebrating priests have saved but added that the journey has just begun.

As an elders in the Church that the priests are, he enjoined them to devote more time to prayer in the service of God’s people, for their call is divine in nature. “Tend the flock of God that is put in your charge, do not lord it over those under your charge, you’re brothers and not hired labourers.” The priest said.

The homilist also commended parents and friends, urging the celebrating priests never to take them for granted.

The priests had a general thanksgiving, joined by other priests, religious, parents and friends while Rev. Fr. John Okebule prayed and blessed all.

The Chairman of the Church Parish Council and his vice, Mr Christopher Esomo and Dr. John Alamu respectively also appreciated the priests for choosing the parish for their anniversary thanksgiving.

They also presented gifts to the celebrants on behalf of the parish; while also soliciting for assistance of all in completing the Church’s building project through First bank account No. 2023858925.

Rev. Fr. Olayemi, who hails from Divine Mercy Catholic Church, Monatan on behalf of all gave a vote of thanks. He appreciated priests in attendance, some of whom he said taught them catechism and also as their Formators in the seminary, adding that they have good brothers. He appreciated everyone present too, even the choir and prayed for journey mercies back home.

The parish priest, Fr. Olupooye also welcomed all to the parish pleading too that all managed the little the celebrants had provided as refreshment.

There were snapping of photographs and refreshment and cutting of cake after the final blessing.