Jacob BABALOLA (Staff Writer)

As the Catholic faithful worldwide celebrated Pentecost Sunday, which marks the descent of Holy Spirit on the Apostles and the official birth of the Church, the need to live together in love like the early Christians have been emphasized.

The parish priest of St. Anne Catholic Church, Ogbere, Ibadan, Rev. Fr. Stephen Balogun made the emphasis while giving his homily with the theme: “The fire of God’s love” at the parish on Sunday, 24th May 2026. The Mass in the parish was presided over by Rev. Fr. Vitalis Ikechukwu, CSJ with the parish priest and Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Koroma, CSJ concelebrating.

Fr. Balogun stated that by the power of the Holy Spirit, different gifts have been given to all to use for the good of others and not to destroy others, like many are doing today. He urged that the faithful do everything in love and leave the rest to God.

The priest, who is also the CAN Coordinator in Ona Ara LGA of Oyo State reminded all that at the descent of the Holy Spirit, the disciples were encircled with love and power to bind or loose, hence, it is not the priest that forgives at confessional but God Himself. He added that it is not only the parish priest that the faithful can confess to but any priest around and especially during a general gathering like the just celebrated Pentecost Pilgrimage/Vigil.

Fr. Balogun further buttressed the Archbishop’s remarks on the need for peace among the faithful in the parishes. “If you don’t love yourself, how will you love others? You don’t give what you don’t have. The Church herself is united with guidelines. If you think you can be alone, continue, life will teach you.” he remarked.

Continuing, Fr. Balogun stated that if the parishioners are united, it will be easy to approach one another for an assistance. “Priest can need the assistance of the laity and laity can also need the assistance of the priest. When we live together in love, we have peace.” He said.

The priest therefore encouraged the parishioners to share whatever they have with others, not necessarily money but even advice, encouragement and love. “We need the fire of love to seek God’s grace more than ever as we are more confused today in the country.” Fr. Balogun noted.

The parish priest appreciated the Josephite’s priests for joining the parish in the celebration of Pentecost Sunday.