It was indeed a moment of grace for the seminary community to gather at St Anthony’s parish, Asipa, Ibadan, Nigeria, to witness  another Lanterian Encounter  this  Marian year 2017.  Lanterian Encounter is a lecture moment to enlighten the people of God on some themes that will make them grow in faith and love for the Church. The theme for this year’s Lanterian Encounter was centred on “The Role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Christian Life and Journey”.  This edition is the 20^th edition event, and it is always organized by the OMV the Formation community. It is indeed expressive of God’s faithfulness to us as Oblates  of the Virgin Mary in Nigeria, and how well  we have been co-beneficiaries of the graces of God. This year’s Lanterian Encounter was well participated by priests and religious and the laity from all works of life. 

Our dear Rev Fr. Emmanuel Chukwunono Onyemeh, OMV, presented a paper on the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of Christians. His presentation was the high point of the event  for it triggered brainstorming questions and faith sharing contributions from the participants.  Representing the students was  Brother Thomas Terhide Tyvayar OMV who made a paper presentation on the message and apparitions  at  Fatima.  For the seminary community and all those present, it was an opportunity for us all to re-affirm and express our belief  and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. The high point of the event was the celebration of the Holy Mass, with Rev Fr Victor Chuks Nwabueze OMV,  (the rector of the seminary and prefect of clerics) as the officiating priest; he was flanged by our delegate superior Rev Fr John Peter Idio, OMV, and  Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Chukwunonso Onyemeh, OMV.

May the good Lord, who has inspired this very initiative in the Congregation of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary in Nigeria, continue to nourish it with his blessings and support, through Christ our Lord Amen.

Luka Joshua Mazadu Kaje OMV