Media Team

 

The 2026 Archdiocesan Lenten Retreat, held at the Church of the Ascension, Bodija, Ibadan, commenced at 9:00am with the accreditation and registration of parishes. The Archdiocesan Secretary, Mr Daniel Agala, welcomed members of the Board, extended Feast Day greetings, and outlined the programme of events.

 

The Rosary began at 9:36am, led by Mr Thomas Okam, accompanied by the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, while confessions were heard alongside. This was followed by a session of worship and adoration, concluding with Benediction. Members thereafter observed the Stations of the Cross. 

 

The retreat talk, themed “Church Warden: Image of the Unseen God” was delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Benedict Ugwoegbu. He traced the manifestation of God from the Old Testament, where God communicated to the Israelites through Moses (as His mouthpiece) to the New Testament, where Christ became the visible expression of God. He emphasized that although God remains unseen, His presence is experienced through His people, particularly Church Wardens, who serve as key points of contact within the Church. He added that our disposition and attitude can either encourage or discourage others and stressed the need for Christ-like virtues such as love, patience, mercy, and self-control when carrying out our work. 

 

He emphasized the importance of decent dressing, avoiding distractions during Mass and maintaining consistent conduct both within and outside the Church, noting that Church Wardens are “preachers without quoting scriptures” whose lives should inspire others to Christ as we are constantly observed.

 

He concluded by stating that “we are the Christ that people do not see and when they see us, they have seen Christ” urging members to carry out their duties with this in mind. The talk ended with a question-and-answer session.

 

The Lenten Retreat came to a close with the celebration of the Holy Mass, after which refreshments were served and members dispersed.