Rev. Fr Philip Olagunju Urges Faithful to Embrace New Life in Christ at Cross-Over Service in Ile-Ife
The Associate Priest of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral, Lagere, Ile-Ife, Rev. Fr. Philip Olagunju, has called on Christians to embrace spiritual renewal and intentional transformation as they step into the New Year 2026.
Delivering a deeply reflective Cross-Over homily during the church’s transition service from 2025 into 2026, the cleric emphasised that “crossing over means leaving something behind.” He urged parishioners to consciously abandon negative attitudes, sinful habits, and unproductive lifestyles while embracing Christ-like values in the new year.
A Call to New Purpose and New Identity in Christ
According to Akahi News, Rev. Fr. Olagunju reminded the congregation that the essence of a new year is not merely a change of date but a call to spiritual rebirth. He encouraged worshippers to cultivate a renewed relationship with God, stressing that anyone who is in Christ must live as a new creation.
“Crossing over into a new year must reflect a deeper transformation within us,” the priest noted, adding that believers should intentionally adjust their attitudes and daily conduct towards others.
He further charged the faithful to pursue peace, unity, and love in their interactions, explaining that peaceful coexistence remains key to enjoying a truly meaningful and fulfilled year.
Powerful Intercessory Prayers Mark the Cross-Over Night
Akahi News gathered that following the homily, Rev. Fr. Olagunju led the congregation into an intense session of intercessory prayers. The prayers began with heartfelt thanksgiving to God for His protection and mercies over the lives of His children throughout 2025.
Amid solemn worship and thanksgiving songs, the priest led prayers for the forgiveness of sins, divine guidance, and clarity of purpose in the new year. Parishioners were encouraged to present their personal expectations before God, with special prayers offered for the actualisation of goals that could not be achieved in 2025.
Declarations for a Fruitful 2026
During the prayer session, the priest declared that nothing good should be difficult for God’s children in 2026. He also raised prayers against untimely death, misfortune, and stagnation, while invoking divine blessings upon the works and endeavours of all parishioners.
According to Akahi News, the atmosphere was charged with faith and hope as worshippers embraced the prophetic declarations with deep spiritual enthusiasm.
A Call to Walk Worthy of the New Year
As the service drew to a close, Rev. Fr. Olagunju reiterated that entering a new year demands a conscious commitment to live differently. He urged parishioners to walk in love, forgiveness, and obedience to God, reminding them that a transformed life is the true evidence of a renewed year.
The crossover service at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral was marked by deep reflection, fervent prayers, and renewed hope for a purposeful 2026.
Akahi News will continue to bring you faith-based reflections and community stories that shape lives and inspire positive change.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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