Preach the Gospel without fear

Catholic Priests and other anointed faithful engaged in preaching the Good News of Christ have been called upon to preach the Gospel without fear but ensure that their mission is within the confines of the magisterium of the Church.

The call was made by Fr. Nwachukwu Okocha in his homily at the diaconate ordination ceremony presided over by Bishop Albert Fasina of Ijebu-Ode Diocese. Those ordained as deacon were Augustine Adetola, Anthony Adetayo and James Oluka.

According Fr. Okocha who was the homilist, those anointed to preach the Good News of Christ should not compromise preaching the Word of God out of fear or favour or any other reason.

Fr. Okocha also used the occasion to remind parents that as first teachers of their children, they must not be found wanting in the discharge of their parental duties. Parents, the homilist said, must direct their children in the way of God and make them useful for themselves and the society at large. He further congratulated parents of the new deacons and urged them not relent in prayers and support for their children to enable them reach the peak of their vocation as priests.

Addressing the new deacons, Fr Okocha urged them to remain steadfast in their vow of celibacy and be dedicated and devoted in the service of the Bishop and the Church.

The ceremony, which was attended by priests, religious and the lay faithful from all parts of the diocese took place at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Ogbere, Ijebu Waterside area.

(Catholic News Service of Nigeria)

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