Rev. Father Vincent Ekeneme Embarks on a New Journey of Service

Fr. Vincent Ekeneme Embarks on a New Journey of Service: Transitioning from Lagere to Holy Family Catholic Church

The ecclesiastical landscape of SS Peter & Paul Pro-Cathedral, Lagere Ile-Ife, witnessed a significant change as the beloved associate priest, Reverend Father Vincent Ekeneme, bid farewell to embark on a new chapter of his spiritual journey. Appointed by the esteemed Bishop John Oyejola of the Osogbo diocese, Father Ekeneme’s elevation to the role of Parish Priest comes as a testament to his unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership qualities, honed over nearly two years of service under the tutelage of Very Reverend Father (Dr) Peter Adeyemi.

Father Ekeneme’s ordination on Friday, May 13, 2022, marked the beginning of a profound spiritual odyssey, during which he diligently served the Lagere community with sincerity and fervor. As he prepares to commemorate his second Priestly Ordination Anniversary in his new parish next month, Father Ekeneme leaves behind a legacy of profound homilies and steadfast devotion to his flock.

In his parting address on Sunday, April 7, 2024, Father Ekeneme’s words resonated with confidence and a profound sense of purpose. Emphasizing the boundless mercy and redemption found in the presence of the Lord, he implored his parishioners to cultivate compassionate hearts, willing to empathize with those who suffer. Reflecting on the essence of Divine Mercy, Father Ekeneme underscored the transformative power of forgiveness and urged the faithful to emulate God’s unconditional love by extending forgiveness to others.

Furthermore, Father Ekeneme exhorted the congregation to embrace a spirit of communal solidarity, emphasizing the intrinsic interconnectedness of the Church community. Encouraging them to share their blessings generously and nurture their faith, he emphasized the pivotal role of the faithful in strengthening the fabric of the Church.

Expressing gratitude to Very Reverend Father Peter Adeyemi for his paternal guidance and unwavering support, Father Ekeneme also extended appreciation to the Immaculate Heart Sisters and the entire parish community for their warmth and camaraderie throughout his tenure. In turn, Father Adeyemi commended Father Ekeneme for his pastoral acumen and spiritual stewardship, wishing him abundant blessings in his new pastoral ministry.

Transitioning from a parish with over 1100 parishioners to the intimate setting of Holy Family Catholic Church, Road 7, Ile-Ife, Father Ekeneme embarks on a new chapter enriched by the lessons learned and the bonds forged at Lagere. As he assumes the mantle of Parish Priest for approximately 100 parishioners, Father Ekeneme carries with him the prayers and well-wishes of his former congregation, poised to embrace the challenges and blessings of his new pastoral assignment with humility and grace.

Daniel Ugwo