Apart from worshipping with the Parish community on Sunday October 20, 2024, seeking the financial support of Parishioners of SS Peter & Paul Pro-Cathedral, Lagere, Ile-Ife was major in his visit as the diocese prepares to host the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria very soon.

The Catholic Bishop of Osogbo Diocese, Most Rev Dr. John Akinkunmi Oyejola appreciated the parish community for their continuous support within and outside the Parish. Having disclosed the progress of the diocese in about ten minutes video projection, which encompasses both the material and spiritual advancement, he made them aware of the financial implications, towards achieving full completion of structural development, especially at the Pastoral Centre of the diocese. The bishop was not impressed with the attendance of faithful at the pre-mass deepening-the-faith programme; however, he commended the understanding of participants present, while encouraging other parishioners to participate actively henceforth. 

According to the bishop; “please it is very important to come to deepening-the-faith please, am begging you. It is what will give you life. Look, you can run here, run there - without God, it is empty o; and our life is very short. God can give us 200 years and before you know it, it’ll come and gone.”

He educates them that every day in the life of a Christian is a mission day; however, the mission Sunday is only to remind Christian of their call as followers of Christ in which by accepting baptism, they are already an automatic follower of Christ. Hence, the role of calling others to the master is major in the life of a Christian. 

The prelate noted that witnessing is for everyone, either educated or not. Ways of life of Christians according to him, is one of the most effective means of witnessing. He further stressed that while some witness by preaching, some others take up the responsibility of praying for others, others use their gifts and financial belongings, achieving same goal.

Bishop Oyejola also emphasized that the purpose of contribution during the mission Sunday is to support the works of the Church in propagating the faith; considering that there are many, sent on mission that require assistance. The Parish Pastoral Council Chairman, Prof. Bola Marcus Eleruja formally welcomed the bishop to the Parish on behalf of Priests, Religious and the entire faithful of the Parish community.