The Catholic Priest of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Rev. Father John Peter Idio, OMV, ordained for the congregation of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary on Thursday July 12, celebrated his 10th priestly ordination anniversary.
The celebration of the Catholic born priest, held at the St. Anthony Catholic Church, Ashipa, Ibadan Archdiocese, witnessed the presence of various Arch Bishops, Bishops, Rev Fathers, Catechist and parishioners from all over the country.
Rev. Father John with anointed priests
Rev. Father John who received lots of accolades from his Superiors and parishioners for a dedicated, balanced, focused and humbled life, could not hide his joy has he returned all glory to God.
Rev. Father John in a chat with CEOAfrica
He said ‘‘what can I say, it is not by might but by his grace, I remembered in the seminary, five of us started but only two graduated. God to be praised.’’
Responding to a question about his experience in the past 10 years. Rev Father John said ‘‘there were moments of desolation and confusion. At a point in time, I was thinking, is this the life I will live, a life of loneliness, not having Children. There was a point in time when I was confused about a religious priest and been a diocesan priest but thank God for my spiritual directors who kept telling me this is what religious life entails.’’
Rev. Father John with his extended family members
Meanwhile, scores people whom Rev. Fr. John had impacted, testified about his character and good deeds. Mr. Olorunmota, a member of the church, described Rev. Father John as a faithful servant of God. ‘‘Rev. Father John has a lot of good qualities. He is humble, dedicated, committed and a faithful servant of God.’’
Mrs Oladunni Ojo, adored Rev. Father John as a priest who cannot be forgotten. ‘‘He is an encourager and an adviser, may God continue to uphold him, may he not fall.’’
Another testifier, Mrs Comfort Eniola, one of the mothers at St. Anthony Catholic Church also described Father John ‘’ as a humble priest who listens and supports his people. We can indeed confess that, he is a chosen one from God. I pray that God will continue to be his strength.’’
CWO team with Rev. Father John at the reception
Prior the thanksgiving service, there was a football competition between the CWO and Lion. FC. The CWO team which comprises of the women defeated the Men Lion. FC with 2 goals to 1.
