On Sunday, April 6th, 2025, joy overflowed at St. Paul’s Parish, Shettleston Road, Glasgow, as the Catholic community gathered in large numbers to celebrate their usual bi-monthly Mass. On his special visit to Scotland, Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Nigeria, presided over the vibrant Eucharistic celebration, accompanied by Fr. Remigius Ihyula. The occasion was made even more special as it coincided providentially with this year’s Mother’s Day celebration.
The Holy Mass began at 1:15 PM and drew a crowd of about 400 faithful, including two deacons, six nuns, one Spiritan seminarian, ten priests, and lay members from all walks of life. The joy and unity of the Catholic family were unmistakable, as hearts and voices lifted in worship.
In his homily, Bishop Anagbe opened with heartfelt appreciation to Archbishop William of the Archdiocese of Glasgow for his warm hospitality and support. He acknowledged the strong faith of the laity in the community and commended the clergy, with a special mention of the Spiritan fathers for their missionary zeal and work back in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the day’s readings, the bishop emphasised God’s justice and his boundless mercy. He urged all to find rest and assurance in the love of God, who alone answers the deep questions of our hearts. He also called for intensified prayers for Nigeria, highlighting the growing insecurity, kidnappings, and unrest driven by extremist agendas.
Interestingly, the liturgy was beautifully animated by women playing various roles, as lectors, altar servers, choir members, and wardens. Prayers of the faithful were offered in Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Edo, Pidgin, and English, showcasing Nigeria’s rich diversity. The celebration reached a joyful high when three women came out to give special praises and greetings to mothers in their native languages, [Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo] reflecting the unity in diversity of the community.
Moreover, special guests from the Catholic Women Association in Aberdeen diocese, joined the celebration. This further highlight the communal nature of the Nigerian culture.
As part of the prevailing liturgical practices in Nigeria, a family brought their baby for dedication during a church celebration. The child was presented to the bishop, who offered prayers for the baby and the family. Child dedication in Nigeria is a joyful and significant ceremony where parents present their child to God, expressing gratitude and seeking divine guidance. It signifies their commitment to raise the child in a godly and faithful way.
Beautifully, the refreshment that follows the community Mass, is always generously sponsored by different groups within the community. Members are organised into groups; each taking turns to host and cater for the occasion. For this celebration, Group 9 took up the responsibility with great joy and dedication. In recognition of their efforts, they were warmly appreciated and invited forward to receive a special blessing from the bishop.
More so, in her vote of thanks, Mrs. Gertrude Ugwu, representing the women, and standing for the women president, Mrs Ada Obiagwu, highlighted the group’s founding in June 2018 and its ongoing mission of supporting the faith community through workshops, medical talks, and more.
As the Eucharistic celebration drew to a close, the community chaplain, Fr. Ezra Maha, expressed deep gratitude to Bishop Anagbe for graciously accepting the invitation to preside over the Mass. He acknowledged the bishop’s presence as a great honour and blessing to the community.
Shortly before the final blessing, the chairman of the community, Mr. Olufemi Alalade, expressed his heartfelt joy and gratitude to everyone in attendance and pledge the support of the community to his lordship. With a beaming smile, he invited the entire congregation to join in singing a special birthday song for Bishop Anagbe, who recently celebrated his 60th birthday, adding yet another joyful note to the already vibrant celebration. The Mass concluded at 3:05 PM followed by a delightful reception in the parish hall. Joy, unity, and gratitude filled the day, which represent a true celebration of faith and motherhood.
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