It was a day of joy, reflection, and gratitude at Christ The King Catholic Church, Odo Ona, Ibadan, played host to the Golden Jubilee celebration of Very Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Adeyinka Ajewole.

The event, which took place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, brought together Clergy, Faithful, Family Members, and Well-wishers to honor a man whose life has been a remarkable journey of faith, service, and testimony.

The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass, where the Homilist, Very Rev. Fr. Julius Akinyode, paid glowing tribute to Fr. Ajewole’s unwavering dedication to God and humanity. Fr. Akinyode described the celebrant as a priest whose life has been a testament to divine grace, a man who has embraced his calling with humility and passion for over 22 years of priestly service.

"Life is perceived in different ways," Fr. Akinyode reflected during his sermon. "Some see it as a battle, fighting from the beginning to the end. Others see it as a competition, never at peace as they strive for trophies. But Fr. Emmanuel has walked the path of life as a journey with God, making his existence a beautiful testimony for those who know him—both clergy and laity alike."

He noted that the gathering was a celebration of a son, a brother, a father, a friend, and a mentor, emphasizing that Fr. Ajewole’s athleticism, dynamism, vibrancy, and devotion have made him an inspiration to many. As the celebrant reached this significant milestone, Fr. Akinyode encouraged him to reflect on the past with gratitude, entrust the present to God, and journey into the future with unwavering faith.

In his address, the Metropolitan, Archbishop of Ibadan, His Grace, Most Rev. Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin, extolled Fr. Ajewole’s virtues, describing him as a “treasure” to the Archdiocese and the Church at large. "We thank God for the gift of Fr. Emmanuel Adeyinka Ajewole," the Archbishop remarked. "His selfless service to God's work and humanity is commendable, and I encourage him to remain steadfast, intensifying his witness to the true gospel of God's kingdom."

His Grace further urged the faithful to deepen their relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of steadfast faith and daily commitment to the Christian journey.

Visibly moved by the outpouring of love, Fr. Ajewole expressed deep gratitude to God for His grace upon his life. "This is the day the Lord has made, and I rejoice in His goodness," he said. "Fifty years of existence and over two decades of priesthood—this is nothing but to the glory of God."

He extended heartfelt appreciation to Archbishop Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin for his fatherly guidance and unwavering support throughout his vocation.

He also thanked all who had come to celebrate with him, seeking their prayers for greater divine manifestations in his life. "As Christians, we are called to glorify God with our lives and be immensely useful to humanity," he declared. "Wherever we find ourselves—in the Church, in our communities, or in the world—we must remain committed to the service of God and His people."

 

Following the Mass, guests were treated to a reception at the Church’s hall, where tributes poured in for the Celebrant.

The event, chaired by Honorable Justice Peter Ige, featured music, cultural performances, and words of appreciation from friends, colleagues, and parishioners, whose lives Fr. Ajewole had touched.

The golden jubilee celebration of Fr. Emmanuel Adeyinka Ajewole was not just a birthday event—it was a testament to a life lived in service, faith, and unwavering commitment to God’s mission. As he embarks on this new chapter, his legacy of love and devotion continues to inspire many.