St. Joseph Catholic Church, Anegbette, kicked off the Umógbái or Éséli festival with a solemn celebration of the Holy Mass, seeking God’s blessings and protection for the community’s children.
During the homily, the congregation was reminded of the importance of upholding cultural values, ethics, and behavior. The priest, Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai emphasized that cultural festivals, such as Umógbái, are not inherently sinful, contrary to popular misconceptions.
Rather, these rites of passage into adulthood should foster positive growth, change, and development in the lives of the young initiates, their community, and the world at large.
The Umógbái festival is a significant cultural event in the Anegbette community, marking an important milestone in the lives of the young people. The Catholic Church’s involvement in the celebration highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage while upholding Christian values.
*PHOTO CAPTION*: Rev. Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai, Administrator of St. Joseph Parish, poses with initiates After the Mass for the Umógbái festival celebration at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Anegbette.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
