The faithful of the Diocese of Uromi gathered today, Saturday, June 6, for their annual Rosary Carnival at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, Ekpoma. The celebration highlighted the special place of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of the Church and marked the conclusion of the Marian devotion observed throughout the month of May.
The spiritually enriching event began with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and the recitation of the Holy Rosary, while the Sacrament of Reconciliation was administered simultaneously.
A major feature of the celebration was the joyful procession through the streets of Ekpoma. The faithful carried the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary while singing, dancing, and praying the Rosary. Priests, religious, and lay faithful all participated enthusiastically in the procession. The celebration culminated in a Solemn Mass in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary, presided over by the Chief Shepherd of the Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Donatus Ogun, alongside priests present for the occasion.
In his homily, Fr. Francis Agbenboaye called on the faithful to rejoice even amidst challenges. Drawing inspiration from the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he encouraged Christians to be bearers of Christ in the world, just as Mary carried Jesus in her womb, so that others may experience the joy of Christ through them, just as Elizabeth and her household rejoiced at Mary’s visit.
One of the major highlights of the Mass was the unveiling of the Banner of The Year of St. Francis, marking the official inauguration of the Jubilee of St. Francis in the Diocese of Uromi, as declared by the Holy Father. The Jubilee serves as a reminder of the Church’s rich heritage and the communion of saints.
The celebration was truly uplifting, with an atmosphere filled with joy, devotion, and spiritual fervour.
In his remarks, the Bishop emphasized that whenever Catholics pray the Rosary, they also call upon Jesus, making Him the centre of every devotion to Mary. He therefore encouraged the faithful to embrace the Rosary as a powerful instrument of prayer and spiritual growth.
We thank God for the success of this year’s Rosary Carnival and pray that, through the maternal intercession of Mary, God will continue to hear our prayers, bless us, and heal our land.
Amen.
Comments are closed.