The 2025 Lagos Archdiocesan Council of Board of Lectors Feast Day Celebration was a grand affair, marking a significant milestone in the spiritual calendar of the Catholic Church in Lagos.
Held on June 29th, the event honored the patron saints of lectors, St. Peter and St. Paul, with thousands of lectors from 20 deaneries converging at the Catholic Church of Ascension along Airport Road in Ikeja. The festivities began with a nine-day Novena prayer, a solemn and reflective period of spiritual preparation that ushered the lectors towards the feast day celebration proper. The highlight of the event was the thanksgiving mass, which commenced at 10 am with The dean of ikeja deanary Very Rev. Fr. Stephen A. Akinsowon, as officiating priest.
The homilist, Rev. Fr. Thomas Aliegwu Asst Archdiocesan chaplain for lectors delivered a powerful sermon, emphasizing the importance of St. Peter and St. Paul as pillars of the Church. Referencing the Gospel of the day, Matthew 16:13-19, Father highlighted Christ’s words to St. Peter, “You are Peter, and on this rock, I shall build my church.” He also drew from the Acts of the Apostles, where St. Paul was instructed by Christ to bring His name to the Gentiles.
The priest urged lectors to emulate the stability and vision of St. Peter and St. Paul, stressing that they were great witnesses to the gospel of Christ. As lectors, they are entrusted with the sacred duty of proclaiming the word of God, and Father emphasized that this requires the divine authority of the word dwelling in their hearts.
Fr. Aliegwu exhorted them to live by example, carrying out their tasks with integrity and practicing what they preach. In his parting words, He declared, “Believe what you read, proclaim what you believe,” a mantra that resonated deeply with the lectors.
Feast Day Reception: Lectors Celebrate Faith, Fellowship, and Sacred Duty
The celebration continued with an exciting reception, featuring a range of activities that showcased the spirit of camaraderie and faith among the lectors. A friendly tug-of-war between chairmen tested deanery strength, while a character parade presentation allowed participants to step into the shoes of biblical heroes. The multiple award-winning Louisa Olaniyi, aka MC LUWY, brought her infectious energy to the event as co-MC with Kene Oduche taking charge of the over five thousand lectors across the Archdiocese.
In his remarks, the Archdiocesan Council of Board of Lectors President, Dr. Richard Edi, reminded lectors that they are entrusted with a sacred duty to give voice to God’s word, that it may pierce into hearts and renew the world. The event culminated in the presentation of prizes for the best Biblical character parade with Surulere deanery emerging as the winner with the Adam and Eve parade. Yaba and Ikorodu deanaries came 2nd and 3rd respectively.
The celebration was graced by the presence of veteran lectors including Nollywood veteran actor Mr. Taiwo Obileye, who served at the mass and added to the excitement and joy of the occasion. As the lectors dispersed, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to their sacred duty, inspired by the words of their patron saints and the spirit of fellowship that defined the celebration.
…by Akpa Evelyn Ogbene
Experience the Spirit of Service and Fellowship Firsthand
Thousands gathered, voices lifted in unity, and hearts renewed in purpose — relive the powerful moments from the 2025 Lagos Archdiocesan Board of Lectors Feast Day and discover more about the vibrant world of Catholic service, leadership, and celebration.
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Evelyn Akpa is a talented voice over artist, model, actress, print and broadcast journalist with over 15 years’ experience spanning print, online and television.
It’s was a heartfelt celebration…starting with the celebration of the holy mass which was soul lifting…and also the divine pleasure of renewing our commitment as commission lectors…it was also a beautiful day to bond with lectors from every deanery…I can’t wait to experience it again…St. Peter and St. Paul Pray For Us.
Thank you for sharing your heartfelt experience. We’re glad the celebration was uplifting and meaningful for you.
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