“FROM SORROW TO HOPE: GOOD FRIDAY IS ‘GOOD’ BECAUSE OF THE RESURRECTION” – BISHOP BADEJO.
On Good Friday, April 18, 2025, the faithful at Christ the King Catholic Church, Oyo, gathered in solemn reverence to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The liturgy, which began promptly at 3:00 PM, was presided over by His Lordship, Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo.
A MESSAGE OF TRANSFORMATION AND HOPE.
In his deeply moving homily, Bishop Badejo offered a profound reflection on the paradox of Good Friday. He questioned why such a dark day in Christian history is still called "good," answering that it is not because of Christ’s suffering, but because of the hope and transformation that follow through the Resurrection. “Salvation does not end in death but triumphs in Easter,” the Bishop stated, emphasizing that Good Friday is the threshold to victory, not defeat.
Drawing from Catholic theology, Bishop Badejo explained how the blood and water that flowed from Christ’s side symbolized the birth of the Church and the Seven Sacraments, making the Cross not just a place of death, but of spiritual birth and renewal.
He also called attention to the contrast between the small number of worshippers on Good Friday and the large Easter Sunday gatherings. He compared it to the few who stood by Jesus at Calvary, urging Christians to evaluate their own commitment: “I know my sheep, and my sheep know me,” he quoted, reminding all that discipleship requires consistency in faith, even in times of pain or discomfort.
Referring to the Gospel of Luke, he recalled Jesus' words to the women of Jerusalem: “Do not weep for me, but for yourselves and your children.” Bishop Badejo stressed that Christ has already conquered Satan, and it is now up to His followers to confront evil through the way they live their daily lives.
He concluded his message with a passionate appeal for personal transformation, reminding the congregation that Good Friday is not just a historical remembrance but a call to renew one’s faith in action.
REFLECTIONS FROM THE FAITHFUL.
Several parishioners shared how the message of Good Friday resonates in the Nigerian context, particularly amid social and economic hardship.
Ewerinde Perpetual Adesewa drew strength from Scripture, stating: “Romans 8:18 assures us that today’s suffering cannot compare to the glory that awaits. Good Friday strengthens my hope in God’s promises.”
Emmanuel Adigun highlighted the day’s role in spiritual unity: “Good Friday unites Christians across Nigeria in prayer, fasting, and reflection. It deepens our faith and sense of community.”
Mr. Eegunjobi Godwin Joseph described Good Friday as a symbol of resilience: “It reminds us that, just as resurrection followed the Cross, better days can follow our present struggles.”
Mr. Francis Kola Orodiran emphasized its reflective nature: “It’s a time to examine our lives and commit to living in a way that honors Christ’s sacrifice.”
“Return to the Old Rugged Cross” – A Call from the Parish Priest
In a stirring final exhortation, Rev. Fr. Anthony Adepoju, parish priest of Christ the King Catholic Church, urged Christians to revisit the essence of their faith the Cross of Christ.
Quoting Scripture and early Church wisdom, Fr. Adepoju said: “Good Friday is not merely about sorrow but about the costly nature of sacrificial love. As St. Peter reminds us, ‘Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example to follow’ (1 Peter 2:21–23).” He warned against becoming detached observers of Christ’s passion and called on the faithful to be active participants in the redemptive journey. “Let us not be like Pilate,” he said, citing Pope John Paul II, “a coward with washed hands and a polluted mouth.” Fr. Adepoju concluded with the timeless hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross”, encouraging all to cherish the symbol of salvation and live lives that reflect its meaning: On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, The emblem of suffering and shame. And I love that old cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain.
-Vincent Obaniyi..
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