The Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Edo State, has recently hosted the second plenary of the 2024 Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
The well-conducted and coordinated hosting by this prestigious diocese marks a significant milestone for the articulate Bishop, Most Rev. Dr Gabriel Ghieakhomo Dunia, and the entire lay faithful.
The meeting, held from 24th to 29th August 2024, brought together over 80 Catholic Bishops to the Auchi Diocese in Afenmai Land, which comprises six local government areas of the Edo North Senatorial District of Edo State.
This was the first time the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria was hosted by the Auchi Diocese in its 21-year history, following its erection as a diocese on 22nd February 2003, with Bishop Gabriel Dunia as its first and current Bishop. Catholic faithful from the diocese, both at home and in the diaspora, as well as friends, well-wishers, and families, not only attended the historic event but also joined the host Bishop, a worthy son, in welcoming distinguished Bishops of the Catholic Church of Nigeria and guests who travelled from far and wide.
The first few days of the plenary commenced with a series of spiritually enriching events, such as Lauds, Masses, Benedictions, and Vespers, at both the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Auchi and Afashio-Afowa, respectively, in Edo State.
Day four of the conference featured three key events: the opening Mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the opening ceremony at Uyi Grand Event Centre, and Adoration and Rosary procession at the Holy Rosary, Afashio-Uzairue, all within Afenmai Land. While the opening ceremony, held on 25th August 2024, drew the largest gathering of government officials, business personalities, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. The event was marked by the enthronement of the Holy Bible, led by Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, the Bishop of Oyo. This important moment set the tone for the week-long gathering, drawing attendees into a deep reflection on the word of God.
Following the enthronement, the atmosphere was charged with solemnity as the National and Papal Anthems were sung. Most Rev. Peter Odutoyinbo, CBCN Assistant Secretary, introduced the guests, leading to a series of addresses that highlighted the importance of the gathering for the Church in Nigeria.
The Chairman’s opening remarks during the opening ceremony were delivered by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, who eloquently set the stage for the discussions and decisions that would shape the future of the Church in Nigeria. His words were followed by a warm welcome address from the President of CECH, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, who emphasised the unity and spiritual purpose of the plenary.
Goodwill messages from religious and political leaders further enriched the event. The Chargé d’Affaires of the Apostolic Nunciature, Msgr. Carlo Maria Donati, and other dignitaries, including the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Archbishop Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Oliver Ali Aba, the representative of the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ven. Dr. Princewill Ireoba, and the Governor of Edo State, H.E. Godwin Obaseki, all shared their messages of support and encouragement.
The day concluded on a high note with a vote of thanks delivered by Most Rev. David Ajang, Bishop of Lafia, and a closing prayer by Most Rev. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin, Archbishop of Ibadan.
Earlier, the Gala Night held on 24th August, 2024 at the Pastoral Centre in Sabo, Iyakpi, South-Ibie, further deepened the bonds of fellowship. The event was a moment of gratitude, celebration, and appreciation for the bishops’ leadership and dedication to God and humanity.
Throughout the week-long event, attendees gathered daily for refreshments, enjoying the sense of fellowship and shared purpose.
Looking towards the future of the Church, the conference, from 26th to 29th August 2024, featured a continuation of the plenary with more inspiring, official, spiritual, and uplifting activities, where Bishops had Masses at various parishes in the state, culminating in the closing Mass held at 5:00 pm, followed by a dinner at 8:00pm on 29th August 2024.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria is the highest decision-making body of the Catholic Church in Nigeria. It holds its plenary meetings twice a year, where matters of Catholic faith and society are discussed, and resolutions, in the form of a communiqué are communicated to the Catholic faithful of Nigeria, the leaders of the nation, and the country as a whole.
The spiritual gathering will undoubtedly leave the spirit of God in the minds of the faithful for years to come.
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