Rev. Fr Stevenson Olowolagba Urges Faithful to Embrace Perseverance in Prayer as He Marks 25 Years in Priesthood
In a powerful Sunday reflection delivered on the 17th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Rev. Fr Stevenson Olowolagba, Parish Priest of St Dominic Catholic Church, Ifewara, Osun State, called on the faithful to embrace the transforming power of persistent prayer, describing it as a hallmark of genuine Christian faith and intimacy with God.
The homily, delivered today, Sunday, 27th of July, 2025, drew inspiration from the day’s scriptural readings — Genesis 18:20-32, Colossians 2:12-14, and Luke 11:1-13 — and emphasised the spiritual courage and steadfastness demonstrated by Abraham in his bold intercession for Sodom.
“Through Abraham’s dialogue with God, we witness not just prayer but a deep communion — an intimate exchange where faith fuels confidence, and compassion births courage,” the cleric stated. “God delights when we insist, struggle, and remain firm at the throne of grace, trusting that He listens.”
Fr Olowolagba underscored the significance of prayer not just as a religious duty but as a life-giving force. He pointed to Jesus’ own life, where prayer served as His wellspring of power and purpose, teaching His disciples to persist without wavering.
Reflecting on the sacrament of baptism, the priest highlighted the mystery of union with Christ in death and resurrection — a testament to the believer’s redemption through faith. “The one who trusts in Christ is buried with Him and raised with Him. Prayer, therefore, is not just a request but a testimony of relationship.”
In his closing exhortation, the priest encouraged believers to enter the new week with renewed spiritual fervour, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance to develop endurance and perseverance in prayer.
As Rev. Fr Olowolagba prepares to celebrate his 25th Priestly Anniversary tomorrow, Monday, 28th of July, 2025, at St. Benedict Cathedral, Popo, Osogbo, this message of unwavering prayerfulness stands as a fitting prelude to his silver jubilee milestone — a testimony to a life anchored in devotion, service, and grace.
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