Ado-Ekiti | August 2, 2026.
A birthday reception in Ado Ekiti took on a spiritual tone on Sunday as Rev. Fr. Augustine Omoniyi of Christ the King Catholic Church, Ado Ekiti, delivered a sermon centered on thanksgiving, love, celebration and perseverance.
Rev. Fr. Omoniyi opened the sermon with a special prayer for the celebrant before leading the congregation in reflections on God’s goodness, Nigeria’s resilience and the life of Jesus Christ.
Speaking on the theme of celebration, the cleric observed that celebration is deeply rooted in Nigerian culture, noting that Nigerians are widely known for celebrating life’s milestones despite economic and social challenges.
According to him, celebrations in Nigeria cut across different aspects of life, including weddings, naming ceremonies, birthdays, promotions, retirements and other significant achievements.
He stressed that the true beauty of every celebration lies in rejoicing with others.
“When people celebrate, the beauty is to rejoice with them,” he said.
Rev. Fr. Omoniyi also posed the question, “How did Nigeria survive during COVID-19?” and attributed the nation’s resilience to God’s grace and the saving work of Jesus Christ.
“Everything provided for us through Christ is a free gift,” he said. “We must learn to appreciate God for life, health and the little things we often take for granted.”
The priest explained that the purpose of such gatherings extends beyond merriment, describing them as opportunities to express gratitude to God while strengthening the bonds of love and fellowship among people.
“The gathering is purposeful—to show love to God and to one another,” he added.
Rev. Fr. Omoniyi further admonished guests to deliberately create time for themselves and to demonstrate genuine love for others, just as Jesus Christ loved His followers.
He also challenged people not to isolate themselves or abandon their faith because of life’s difficulties.
“We should not be running away from people because of the little challenges we have. It is not enough reason to forget our way of life and run away from God,” he stated.
The birthday celebration attracted several dignitaries and prominent personalities, including the Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun; Hon. Lawrence Ogunsanya; Hon. Ehinafe Odunayo Bola; Hon. Shola Olowojebutu, among other political leaders, community stakeholders, family members, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to honour the celebrant and participate in the thanksgiving service.
The sermon was warmly received by guests, who described the message as timely, inspiring and a fitting reminder of the importance of gratitude, love and steadfast faith in every season of life.
