Bishop John Akinkunmi Oyejola Highlights the Purpose of Establishing Small Churches During Pastoral Visit

Bringing God Closer: Bishop Oyejola Highlights the Purpose of Establishing Small Churches During Pastoral Visit to St. Patrick, Parakin

Ile-Ife, Osun State | Sunday, May 11, 2025

In a profound message delivered during his pastoral visit to St. Patrick Catholic Church, Parakin, Ile-Ife, the Bishop of Osogbo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. John Akinkunmi Oyejola, underscored the vital importance of establishing small churches within communities.

Addressing a congregation of faithful Catholics gathered to welcome him, Bishop Oyejola stated that the ultimate reason for creating smaller worship centres is to bring God and the ease of worship closer to the people.

“The Church is not just a building,” Bishop Oyejola noted, “but a community of believers journeying together in faith. By establishing small churches within neighborhoods, we are fulfilling the mission of Christ to reach every corner of the world with the Gospel. We are creating access to God’s presence and making worship a more intimate and accessible experience for all.”

The pastoral visit, marked by a solemn Eucharistic celebration, was filled with spiritual warmth, praise, and reflection. Parishioners, clergy, and members of the local community gathered in numbers to welcome the bishop, who used the opportunity to encourage the faithful to remain steadfast in their commitment to the Church and to community development.

Bishop Oyejola also commended the leadership and members of St. Patrick Catholic Church for their dedication and efforts in nurturing the growth of the parish. He acknowledged the challenges faced by emerging parishes but stressed that the presence of smaller churches in local communities is a response to the growing need for spiritual guidance and closeness to God.

“When people see the Church within walking distance, they feel encouraged to participate in Mass, prayer meetings, and other activities. It strengthens their faith and fosters a deeper sense of belonging to the Body of Christ,” the bishop added.

The visit concluded with interactions between the bishop and parishioners, as well as a blessing upon the church community. Many in attendance expressed their gratitude for the bishop’s presence and message of hope, seeing it as a reaffirmation of the Church’s commitment to spiritual growth and pastoral care at the grassroots level.

St. Patrick Catholic Church, Parakin, remains one of the vibrant and growing faith communities within the Diocese of Osogbo, reflecting the broader vision of the Catholic Church in Nigeria to spread the Gospel and enhance access to the sacraments through localized and community-based parishes.