Osogbo Catholic Priests Conclude Annual Retreat as Fr. Adeyemi Resumes Daily Lenten Reflection
Priests of the Osogbo Catholic Diocese have concluded their one-week annual retreat held at the Pastoral Centre in Ede, Osun State, marking the end of a spiritually enriching period of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to their pastoral duties.
Akahi News gathered that the retreat, which coincides with the Lenten season, provided an opportunity for clergy within the diocese to withdraw from routine engagements and deepen their spiritual lives in preparation for the Easter celebration.
A Season of Silence, Reflection, and Renewal
The annual retreat is widely regarded as a sacred moment in the life of priests, offering time for prayer, introspection, and spiritual growth.
During this period, many priests reduce public engagements, including regular teachings and reflections, to focus on personal communion with God.
Akahi News observed that this temporary withdrawal was evident in the pause of daily Lenten reflections by Rev. Fr Pius Odediran, a respected priest known for his consistent spiritual messages during the season.
This development raises a deeper spiritual question: in a world constantly demanding activity and visibility, how often do individuals truly withdraw to renew their inner strength?
Fr. Peter Adeyemi Continues Daily Spiritual Guidance
Amid the retreat activities, Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi, Parish Priest of SS Peter and Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral Church, Lagere, Ile-Ife, has once again released his daily prayer reflection for Friday, March 20, 2026.
His message, as noted by Akahi News, reflects themes of gratitude, divine guidance, and total reliance on God—central pillars of the Lenten journey.
Below is the full prayer reflection:
Good morning my dear people of God.
Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Let us pray:
God our loving Father, yours is the day and yours is the night. We thank you for granting us a peaceful and quiet night rest. We are grateful for the gift of a bright new day and for all the good things in it for our benefits. Our desire to thank you is your gift to us; as we offer our daily prayers of thanksgiving day and night, let your peace and blessings come down upon us.
Lord Jesus, as you have given us the grace to begin this day, let your divine presence go with us as we go out for our duties and businesses. Teach us to seek the things that please you; may all we lay our hands upon be fruitful and successful. Grant us your peace and comfort in all that we shall do this day.
Almighty God, as we go out this day, go ahead of us to lead the way for us. Be behind us to protect us. Walk beside us to support us. Be above us to bless us. Be in our hearts to strengthen us with your grace. May we experience your favour in all our undertakings of this day.
We make our prayer through Christ our Lord. Praying for your intentions.
Rev. Fr Peter Adeyemi.
The Balance Between Ministry and Spiritual Renewal
The temporary pause in public reflections by some priests during the retreat highlights an often overlooked reality of ministry—the need for spiritual renewal among those who guide others.
Priests, though spiritual leaders, are also pilgrims on a journey of faith, requiring moments of silence to reconnect with their calling.
Akahi News learnt that such retreats are essential not only for the personal growth of clergy but also for the vitality of the Church as a whole.
But this prompts a profound reflection: how can one pour into others without first being filled?
A Message Beyond the Retreat
As the priests return to their pastoral responsibilities, the impact of the retreat is expected to resonate in their teachings, guidance, and service to the faithful.
Fr. Adeyemi’s reflection, rich in simplicity and depth, serves as a reminder of the enduring power of prayer in navigating daily life.
In a fast-paced world, his words echo a timeless truth—that true strength lies not in constant activity, but in quiet dependence on God.
For many believers, the question remains: are we merely busy with life, or are we truly rooted in purpose?
For more faith-based updates and reflections, stay with Akahi News.
🎓 Attend 2026 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
