The Catholic faithful of Sts. Michael, Raphael & Gabriel Catholic Church (The Archangels’ Parish), No. 1 Mission Street, Satellite Town, Lagos, gathered in great numbers on Sunday, 28th June 2026, for their annual celebration of the Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help (OMPH). The celebration, which commenced with the Holy Mass at 9:00 a.m., was the climax of a spiritually enriching one-week retreat held from 21st to 27th June 2026, conducted by the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Mission Team. The 2026 celebration was themed: “Mary, the Consolation of a Wounded Nation” (Isaiah 66:13; John 19:25–27).
The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr. Michael C. Emerue, C.Ss.R., Vice Provincial Superior of the Redemptorists in Nigeria.
A Message of Hope for a Wounded Nation
In his inspiring homily, the Vice Provincial Superior reflected on the numerous challenges confronting the contemporary world, with particular emphasis on the social, economic, moral, and security difficulties facing Nigeria. He observed that these realities have left countless individuals and families deeply wounded, often as a consequence of humanity’s departure from the will of God in pursuit of selfish ambitions.
Tracing the origin of humanity’s brokenness to the account of the Fall in the Book of Genesis, Fr. Emerue highlighted God’s unfailing plan of redemption and the unique place of the Blessed Virgin Mary within the mystery of salvation. He reminded the faithful that Mary continues to accompany the Church as Our Mother of Perpetual Help, constantly interceding for God’s children and leading them to Christ.
He further challenged the congregation to move beyond merely knowing about God to truly knowing God through a personal relationship with Him. According to him, authentic Christian living is nurtured through fidelity to the Word of God, regular reception of the Sacraments, openness to God’s grace, and the sincere practice of charity.
Emphasizing the importance of the family as the domestic Church, he encouraged every Christian family to revive the culture of family prayer, cultivate genuine love for one another, and extend compassionate care to neighbours, following the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He also called on everyone to embrace sacrifice for the common good, describing Mary as a perfect model of selfless service, faith, and unwavering trust in God.
A Joyful and Spirit-Filled Celebration
The liturgical celebration was enriched by several colourful activities that reflected the vibrant Marian devotion of the parish. These included the solemn Grand Procession for the Reception of the Icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, beautiful choral renditions by the parish choir, inspiring poem recitations, and the symbolic release of balloons by members of the Missionary Childhood Association (MCA). The faithful also expressed their gratitude to God through joyful thanksgiving during the Eucharistic celebration.
Following the Holy Mass, a grand reception was held within the church premises. The event showcased various presentations from parish organizations and societies, including cultural dances, drama performances, poem recitations, Marian hymns, and the offering of flowers before the Icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.
Although a heavy rainfall interrupted the outdoor reception, it failed to dampen the enthusiasm and faith of the congregation. The faithful remained steadfast, with many of the performances continuing joyfully under the rain. Their resilience transformed the unexpected downpour into a memorable testimony of unwavering devotion and love for the Mother of God.
Notably, the Vice Provincial Superior, together with members of the Pastoral Team, remained present throughout the celebration—from the beginning of the Holy Mass until the conclusion of the reception—demonstrating their pastoral closeness and solidarity with the faithful.
Appreciation
At the conclusion of the Eucharistic Celebration and reception, the Parish Priest, Dr. Fr. Godfrey Udeh, C.Ss.R., sincerely thanked Fr. Michael C. Emerue, C.Ss.R., Vice Provincial Superior of the Redemptorists Vice Province of Nigeria, for honouring the parish with his presence despite his demanding pastoral schedule. He noted that, after hosting the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria during the Redemptorists’ priestly and diaconate ordinations in Ibadan, the Vice Provincial Superior travelled directly to The Archangels’ Parish to celebrate the Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. He also appreciated his fatherly support and inspiring homily.
The Parish Priest further thanked the Pastoral Team, (Frs. Moses Akpough C.Ss.R, Kingsley Ekezie C.Ss.R, Benedict Anyanwu C.Ss.R) , the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Mission Team Planning Committee, parish organizations, benefactors, volunteers, and all parishioners whose dedication and collaboration made the celebration a resounding success. He prayed that God, through the intercession of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, would richly bless and reward them all.
May Our Mother of Perpetual Help continue to intercede for our families, our Church, and our nation, leading us always to her Son, Jesus Christ.
Peter, CSsR.
