The 2026 Annual Oke-Maria Pilgrimage at Otan Ayegbaju, organised by the Osogbo Catholic Diocese, concluded on a spiritually uplifting note as the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. John Akinkunmi Oyejola, delivered a compelling charge to the faithful, calling on Christians to become agents of positive transformation in their communities.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the week-long pilgrimage, His Lordship emphasised the critical role of every Christian in shaping the moral and social fabric of society. He particularly highlighted the responsibility of citizens to participate actively in the electoral process.
Christians Must Exercise Their Voting Rights
According to Akahi News gathered reports, Bishop Oyejola urged Christians to ensure that they register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to exercise their voting rights. He noted that failing to vote without a valid reason would be considered a spiritual lapse, stressing that the emergence of God-fearing and morally upright leaders depends on the active participation of the faithful.
“The responsibility to vote is not merely civic; it is spiritual. Refusing to obtain your PVC and to cast your vote for worthy candidates amounts to neglecting your moral duty as a Christian,” the Bishop said. Akahi News learnt that the Bishop’s statement drew widespread applause from attendees, reflecting the shared understanding of civic and spiritual responsibility.
Safety on the Roads: A Pastoral Concern
In addition to electoral guidance, His Lordship reminded all pilgrims and attendees to drive with caution as they return to their respective destinations. He stressed that road safety remains an essential aspect of Christian stewardship, urging every traveller to exercise patience and prudence. Akahi News gathered that several parishioners expressed appreciation for this pastoral reminder, noting that it underscored the holistic care of the Diocese for its members.
Preparations for Nigeria’s Bishop Conference
Bishop Oyejola also provided an update on the Diocese’s preparations to host this year’s Bishop Conference of Nigeria, revealing that the Diocese is approximately 85% ready to accommodate leaders from all 60 Catholic Dioceses in the country. According to Akahi News, His Lordship indicated that hosting the conference follows a rotational system, and this year, Osogbo Diocese has the honour of welcoming the nation’s bishops.
The Bishop disclosed that both the opening and closing Masses of the conference will take place at St. Benedict Catholic Cathedral, Osogbo, Osun State, urging the Diocesan Administrator, Rev. Fr Festus Komolafe, to finalise preparations for the landmark event. He also appealed for the financial support of all members to ensure the successful execution of the hosting duties. Akahi News learnt that the congregation responded positively to this call, pledging resources and support where possible.
A Solemn Closing: Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel
The 2026 Oke-Maria Pilgrimage concluded with a unanimous prayer to St. Michael the Archangel, followed immediately by the Bishop’s traditional blessing. Akahi News gathered that the prayer session was marked by deep reflection, thanksgiving, and renewed commitment among the faithful to live morally upright and socially responsible lives.
In his final remarks, Bishop Oyejola encouraged all attendees to carry the spiritual lessons of the pilgrimage into their daily lives, ensuring that the values of faith, integrity, and civic responsibility continue to guide their actions. Akahi News learnt that pilgrims departed with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to making meaningful contributions to their communities while upholding the teachings of the Church.
The pilgrimage, which is now an established annual spiritual event in the Osogbo Catholic Diocese, continues to attract participants from across Osun State and neighbouring regions, reinforcing both religious devotion and communal solidarity.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
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