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, […]
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Dec
Dec
The Birth of John the Baptist MALACHI 3:1-4, 23-24; PSALM 25; LUKE 1:57-66 God can do miraculous things to fulfil His purpose: Zachariah and Elizabeth, parents of John, were both from the priestly family of Aaron and were advanced in years. Elizabeth was barren but had a miraculous birth. Beloved, delay in childbearing should not […]
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Dec
Dec
THE VISITATION MICAH 5.2-5/PSALM 80/HEB 10:5-10/LK. 1:39-45 Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai In the Gospel reading, Mary travels to the hill country of Judah to visit her cousin Elizabeth. This visit brought joy to the home of Elizabeth. We too can be agents of divine visitation to others, bringing them joy, love, and peace. The season of […]
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Dec
Dec
BEING AGENTS OF GOD’S LOVE Songs 2:8-14; Psalm 32; Luke 1:39-45 In today’s world, we often rely on agents to facilitate various aspects of our lives. However, as Christians, we are called to be agents of God’s love, care, and healing. The first reading beautifully illustrates the loving relationship between God and His people. Similarly, […]
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Dec
Dec
“MARY’S ‘YES’ Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalm 24; Luke 1:26-38 Today, we reflect on Mary’s profound “yes” to God’s will, as announced by the angel Gabriel. Her unwavering acceptance of God’s plan fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah and marked a pivotal moment in human history. Mary’s example teaches us the importance of surrendering our will to God’s. […]
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Dec
Dec
TRUSTING IN GOD’S PLAN Judges 13:2-7, 24-25; Psalm 71; Luke 1:5-25 Today’s readings offer us a glimpse into the lives of two remarkable women, Manoah’s wife and Elizabeth, who, despite their barrenness, were chosen by God to bear sons who would play a significant role in the salvation story. The birth of Samson, announced by […]
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Dec
Dec
Embracing God’s Plan Jeremiah 23:5-8; Psalm 72; Matthew 1:18-24 Today’s readings remind us of God’s unwavering plan to redeem humanity. In Jeremiah 23:5-8, we hear the prophet’s assurance that a descendant of King David will reign as the true king, a prophecy fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew (1:18-24) sheds light on the […]
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Dec
Dec
PARENTAL BLESSING Genesis 49:2, 9-10; PSALM 72; MATTHEW 1:1-17 In the first reading we see Jacob blessing his twelve sons prior to his death. The reading focuses on the blessing of his son Judah. Jacob says that the sceptre shall not pass from Judah until the one to whom it rightfully belong comes. The […]
14
Dec
Dec
Rejoice in the Lord Zephaniah 3:14-18; Psalm – Isaiah 12:2-6; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:10-18 Today, on the Third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday, we are invited to rejoice. The very word “Gaudete” means “rejoice.” This theme of joy permeates the readings for today. In the first reading, the prophet Zephaniah assures us […]
14
Dec
Dec
Elijah and John Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11; Psalm 80; Matthew 17:10-13 The first reading speaks of Elijah. It tells us of all he did and makes us understand that the prophet Elijah will come again. Correspondingly, Jesus remarked in the Gospel, “Elijah has come already, and they did not recognize him.” Two persons are inferred from […]