On the 4th of July, 2024, a momentous and deeply significant event unfolded at the Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Kakuri, as the Catholic Archdiocese of Kaduna undertook the ordination of nine Deacons to the esteemed order of the Presbyterate. The Solemn ceremony was presided over by the Archbishop, Most Revd. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso was attended by a multitude of Priests, Deacons, Religious figures, Seminarians, and the devout laity.

During the compelling homily delivered by Revd. Fr. Kingsley Mbamara, the weight and significance of the priestly calling were passionately underscored. Fr. Mbamara earnestly reminded both the congregation and the newly ordained priests of the imperative nature of fully embracing God’s grace to fulfill their roles as effective and virtuous priests. He exhorted the ordinands to remain resolute, steering clear of lives of worldly indulgence, and to seize the higher calling of the priesthood.

Fr. Mbamara graciously counseled the ordinands regarding the challenges they might encounter, including potential opposition, public scrutiny, and even the peril of becoming targets of kidnapping in the society within which they are set to minister. He urged them to approach their new environment with empathy and to stay steadfast in their calling, despite the pressures and obstacles they may face.

Furthermore, the homilist elucidated certain pivotal virtues for Priests to espouse as they live out their calling. These included Priestly simplicity and sincerity, humility, and a circumspect approach to ambition. Fr. Mbamara underscored the paramount importance of being intimately bound to the Eucharist and serving as the embodiment of Jesus to the people they will shepherd. He concluded with a sobering admonition for all Priests, cautioning against the perils of gambling and sports betting, emphasizing the importance of living as individuals who hold steadfast to the belief in life after death.

The rite of Ordination proceeded, culminating in the assignment of the newly ordained Priests to serve in Parishes within the Archdiocese of Kaduna.

The Mass concluded with their official posting to their respective Parishes, marking the auspicious commencement of their sacred journey as ordained priests for the universal Church.

The newly ordained Deacons, who were elevated to the Revered Priesthood, stand as follows: Revds. Benjamin Aweh, Augustine Cornelius Akah, Bala Elisha, Emmanuel Hope Ayodele, Lutnaan FearGod, Maji Victor, Musa Cletus Kuzayet, Eric Peter, and Sarkinoma Hassah Jezhi. Their ordination into the Priesthood was an unparalleled occasion, deeply revered by all in attendance.