Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
It was an atmosphere of deep communion and spiritual warmth as the Catholic Diocese of Osogbo, led by its Chief Shepherd, Bishop John Oyejola, warmly welcomed the Catholic Bishops from across Nigeria, on their arrival for their Plenary Assembly. Arriving in groups from their respective dioceses, the prelates were received with enthusiasm and joy by the clergy, religious, and laity of Osogbo diocese, setting a vibrant, expectant tone for the national gathering.
The second day of the plenary commenced in quiet reverence with the Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, culminating in Benediction before the celebration of the Holy Mass. The Metropolitan Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin, presided as the chief celebrant and delivered the homily, calling for deep self-reflection and authentic conversion.
Drawing from the day’s Gospel passage in Luke 6:42, Archbishop Abegunrin centered his message on the theme, “Before We Lead Others, Let Christ Form Us.” He opened with a compelling illustration of a carpenter who wrongly blamed his timber for being crooked, only to realise that his measuring instrument itself was flawed. “Before we begin examining everything around us, the Gospel asks us to examine the instrument through which we see. That refers to our own hearts, motives, prejudices, and attitudes,” the Archbishop emphasised. “Sometimes the problem is not only what we see; it is the eyes with which we see it.”
Clarifying the true spirit of the Gospel text, Archbishop Abegunrin noted that Christ’s warning against judging does not abdicate the Christian duty to correct error or guide others toward the truth. Rather, it establishes personal integrity and self-correction as the essential starting point for effective leadership and fraternal correction. Citing Saint Paul’s apostolic commitment to become “all things to all men” (1 Cor 9:22), he reminded the assembly that true guidance springs from personal humility and love.
Addressing the delegates of Bishops and representatives of the Diocesan priests as they prepare to deliberate on matters affecting both the Church and the nation, the prelate stressed that national transformation begins with inner spiritual renewal. “In order to serve effectively, in order to transform others and make them better, in order to make Nigeria better, we must first dispose ourselves to Christ and allow Him to transform us,” he exhorted.
Concluding his reflection, Archbishop Abegunrin prayed that the Holy Spirit would guide the assembly’s deliberations, deepen their communion, purify their intentions, and renew their zeal for the Gospel throughout the plenary session.
