SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, MARCH 28TH, 2026.

 SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS

PALM SUNDAY - YEAR A

1st Reading:(Isaiah 50:4-7)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM  (Psalm 22:8-9.17-18a.19-20.23-24 (R. 2a)
2nd Reading: (Philippians 2:6-11)
THE PASSION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ACCORDING TO MATTHEW (Matthew 26:14-
27:66)

Christian Ugwuanyi

REFLECTION

Glory to Jesus,

 We are urged to be humble no matter highly placed we found ourselves. Humility is one of the greatest virtues a good Christian is supposed to wield.

Being humble and rational in what we do won't just pave ways for us but will allow the Holy Spirit of God to dwell in us because it's that kind of heart that entice the spirit of God.

Glory to God!

Chioma Nnaji

REFLECTION

Going through the readings, I am reminded on how it is easy to praise God and rejoice when situations go the way I expect and want them to. But I somehow remain silent, grumble or be angry when I face challenges and life becomes difficult. Palm Sunday shows that joyful moments and suffering can go side by side. My prayer is that God will give us the grace to accept both situations as His will.

Emmanuel Mba Nana Yaw

REFLECTION

The Way of the Cross: The Only Road to Life 

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we enter into the mystery of Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord, where joy and suffering meet.

Christ is welcomed with palms as King, yet soon He walks the road to Calvary. This reveals a profound truth: the path to glory passes through the Cross.

Our life on earth is a journey, not our final home. Along this journey come trials: suffering, temptation, sickness, and hardship. Yet Christ assures us: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). He does not merely show us the way, He is the Way, and that way is the Cross.

In the first reading (Isaiah 50:4–7), the Servant of the Lord embodies the true disciple: one who listens, obeys, and endures suffering with trust in God. “I gave my back to those who struck me… I have not rebelled.” Discipleship, therefore, is not only about hearing God’s word, but living it with courage, even when it costs us.

St. Paul, in the second reading (Philippians 2:6–11), presents Christ as the perfect model. Though He is God, He humbled Himself, becoming obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Because of this obedience, God exalted Him. Here lies the Christian paradox: humility leads to glory; suffering leads to life.

The Passion narrative deepens this message. We see two responses to sin: Peter, who repents and is restored, and Judas, who despairs and eventually, commits suicide. This reminds us that failure is not the end, God’s mercy is always greater than our sin, if only we return to Him with contrition.

We also encounter Simon of Cyrene, who helps Jesus carry His cross (cf. Matthew 27:32). In him, we see our Christian duty: to help one another bear life’s burden. No one is meant to walk this journey alone.

My dear brethren, the Cross, once a sign of shame, is now the supreme sign of God’s love and the source of our salvation. There is no crown without the Cross, no resurrection without sacrifice.

Therefore, as we begin Holy Week, Christ calls each of us:

1. To speak and witness to Him boldly

2. To embrace suffering with faith

3. To live in obedience to the Father

4. To repent sincerely when we fall

5. And to help others carry their crosses.

This is the only road to heaven– the way of the Cross.

Let us follow Him faithfully, for beyond the Cross lies the glory of the Resurrection.

Have a blessed Holy Week!

Comfort Mary Edewor 

REFLECTION

The first reading is to me the cry of one who is undergoing severe oppression but who has learned to surrender and completely trust his God who will never abandon his own, or those who put their trust in him. He surrenders himself to such indescribable torment because he knows that the reward of his endurance would be joy beyond measure . Many a time I set boundaries for God when in his wisdom he sends me discomfort that he deems fit for my spiritual progress. I set such boundaries because I can now see that I lack the maturity to say "I know I shall not be put to shame." May God help me to trust him completely knowing that he will never be unfaithful in any situation.

The Psalmist asks"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me". 

This is the question I often ask my Father in heaven when I feel overwhelmed with challenges that I have no clue how to tackle. In particular when it involves busybodies who abandon their own problems to judge and criticize me, and discredit my trust in God or my spiritual life.

In these vulnerable moments, may God remind me that he has promised not to send me any Cross too heavy for me. This may sound easy but I know better and so I pray for his grace to always be there for us all in Jesus name .

Mathias Ede

REFLECTION 

In the first reading (Isaiah 50:4-7) we encounter a servant who listens deeply to God and responds with quiet strength, even in suffering. He does not turn away from pain or humiliation, but entrusts himself completely to the Lord. This is not weakness; it is a profound courage rooted in trust. It reminds us that true discipleship begins with a listening heart and the willingness to remain faithful when obedience becomes costly.

Second reading (Philippians 2:6–11) takes us deeper into this mystery: Christ, though divine, chose humility. He emptied Himself, embraced our humanity, and accepted even death on a cross. In Catholic teaching, this kenosis------ this self-emptying-----is the model of perfect love. It reveals that greatness in God’s eyes is not about power, but about surrender, service, and love poured out for others.

Then, in the Passion narrative according to the Gospel of Matthew, we see this love made visible. Jesus is betrayed, denied, mocked, and crucified, yet He remains steadfast. He does not retaliate or abandon His mission. Instead, He gives Himself completely, even praying and forgiving in the midst of suffering. The Cross becomes not a symbol of defeat, but of victorious love.

Together, these passages invite us into a deeper way of living: to listen like the servant, to humble ourselves like Christ, and to love even when it hurts. They remind us that God’s glory is revealed not in avoiding suffering, but in transforming it through faithful, self-giving love.

Glory to Jesus

Anne Aikpokhio 

REFLECTION 

A call for examination of conscience

Going through the narrative, i discovered that many of the positions played by the characters, in one way of the other, is pointing to me. Telling me to change and become a better person and Christian .

Just like the elders, the Jews, we pretend to be what we're not.

 What about the character of Judas Iscariot, even till tomorrow, many of us still betray one another 🤔, gossips.

 The crowd? Forgetting every blessing of the past. We try to do it, not because it's right but because others are doing it.

 Peter? We still do not trust God enough, in one way or the other, we still deny God every day. We're never bold enough to stand for our faith. To make the sign of the Cross in the public.

 Pontius Pilate? sitting on the fence. Neither here nor there. We often want to please others for position and fame.

Jesus Christ? bearing all things,trusting the Father for strength to fulfill His mission. 

Just like Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, who even as God, was humble and obedient even unto death. Let us as Christian who is having the characters of the Jews/elders, Judas Iscariot, Peter, Pontius Pilate, the crowd, inwardly and outwardly retrace our steps,asking God for mercy. 

Holy Spirit help to be true children of God. Amen

SOCIAL FRIDAY ( 27TH MARCH, 2026)

 CELEBRATING MARCH BORN ACROSS THE GROUPS

At OCCF, We celebrate our members collectively at the end of the month, collate their intentions and have our Spiritual Director ( Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ) and his Assistant (Fr. Toby Ndiukwu) offer the Holy Mass for them.

We wish them many happy and fruitful returns.

Parabéns, dear members, and many blessings!

Meet Our March Celebrants🎈🥳😁

Christiana Momoh

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 9th March

State of Origin - Edo

Status - Widow

Angela Igbinazaka

BIRTHDAY 

D O.B - 27th March h

State of Origin - Delta

Status - Married

Chidiebube Festus Lamidi 

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 26th March 

State of Origin - Delta

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, MARCH 21ST, 2026.

SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS

FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR A.

FIRST READING: Ezekiel 37:12-14

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:Psalm 130:1-2.3-4.5-7a.7b-8(R.7b) 

SECOND READING: Romans 8:8-11

GOSPEL READING: John 11:1-45

GLORIA OBASOGIE

MY REFLECTION ON THE READINGS

First Reading

In the time of the prophet Ezekiel, the people of Israel were in great suffering during exile. They felt completely hopeless, as if they were already dead. But God spoke to them and promised to restore them, saying He would bring them out of their “graves” and give them new life through His Spirit. This was not just about returning home, it was a promise of deeper, new life.

Second Reading

This promise is fulfilled in the New Testament. Saint Paul explains that the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in us and gives us life. Without God, we are trapped in sin, but with His Spirit, we begin to live a new life.

The Gospel

In the Gospel, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. Even after four days in the tomb, Jesus calls him out: “Come out!” This shows that nothing is impossible for God. He has power over death itself.

This message is not only about Lazarus, it is about us. We may not be physically dead, but we can experience other kinds of “death,” like sin, fear, sadness, loss of faith, or hopelessness. In all these situations, Jesus calls each of us personally: “Come out into life.”

But like Lazarus, we may still be “bound” by old habits, wounds, or sins. Jesus gives us new life, but we must continue to be freed and healed, especially through the Church and God’s grace.

The important question is: Do we believe this? Are we ready to let Jesus bring us out of whatever is holding us down?

As we draw closer to Easter, God is inviting us not just to change, but to truly live again:

Come out of sin into grace

Come out of fear into trust

Come out of darkness into light

God’s promise still stands: He will put His Spirit within us, and we shall live Amen.

  UGWUOKE IFEYINWA TRICIA

Reflection

Never lose hope, even when things look impossible.

Trust that God can restore what has been broken.

Allow God’s Spirit to guide and renew your heart daily.

AKITI IGNATIUS JUDE

SHARING MY REFLECTION

It is true that the best teacher of The Scripture is Scriptures itself. It's fascinating how the readings of today clearly explains and align with one another. 

In the Gospel, we see our Lord Jesus Christ raising Lazarus,  not just as a miracle because the Israelites have seen or heard of figures like Elisha and Elijah who did the same thing. But in Jesus's case, the miracle was to address and help the unbelief of His kinsmen who were offended by His claim of being born of God. Note that Jesus addressed God as Father to their hearing while praying in front of the tomb. For a typical Jew, to say one is born of God (son of God) is to say the person is God, since God can only gives birth to his kind- God. This was a serious claim to make and it was one of the charges they later held against Him leading to his crucifixion. But to prove them wrong, God the Father answered his request after his affirmation to show that Christ is perfectly correct; He is born of God; fully God and fully man, having God as His Father (divinity) and Mary as His mother (humanity) . If He weren't truly divine, He would be a liar, but Scripture affirms He is without sin (Hebrews 4:15), so all He said is true. 

This act also connects with what God had already promised through the prophets as seen in the first reading, that He would open graves and bring His people out. Christ did this physically to give them a glimpse and understanding that the promise of God was being fulfilled in their time. So the miracle was not just about bringing Lazarus back to life, but about revealing the core essence of his mission, which is to give life to what is dead (currently spiritually and eternally physically). Well, to their advantage, Jesus’ intentions paid off as many who witnessed it believed (John 11:45). That's the power of miracles. The devil also uses it to deceive people, so beware of the spirit behind every supernatural act. 

In the second reading, Paul the Apostle explains a deep mystery: “If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He will give life to your mortal bodies” (Romans 8:11). This shows that the life we live now is not the ultimate life; the true life begins after this existence. Death comes first, then life. Just like planting a little seed in the fields, it dies first and produces a whole tree and new fruits after it's kind, that is LIFE. What guarantees that LIFE for us is the Spirit of God dwelling in us, and the evidence of that Spirit is righteousness not just moral living, but righteousness through faith in Christ, as seen in Romans 3:22. 

We exist in two natures, the flesh and the spirit. Though baptism removes the consequences of original sin, the fleshly tendency remains weak and vulnerable (Romans 7:23). That is why we must continually strive, as pilgrims, to perfect holiness in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), so we do not fall into the snares of our fleshy desires that lead to death.

Also, in the readings especially the second reading, we see the deep unity between the Father, Son, and Spirit. Reading through its almost impossible to distinguish who is who, they work so closely that it is difficult to separate them (John 10:30). In the same way, our relationship with God should be so united that nothing, especially sin, separates us from God. Therefore, let us embrace the mission of Christ, believe in Him, and live by His Spirit, so that He who raised the dead will also give life to our bodies and call us to Himself after our current earthly existence. This we pray through Christ our Lord.Amen. 

AUGUSTINE ASUQUO UDOFA

REFLECTION ON THE GOSPEL

“Jesus is the resurrection and the life”

We see this play out in the gospel. The life we live is Jesus and is in Jesus. We are all branches of the one and only tree - JESUS. Cut off from the tree we die off (John15:5). Another point we should take note in this gospel is that everything that happens is to the glory of God. Lazarus and his sisters were very close friends 

of Jesus. Therefore there should have been nothing like sickness occurring in the family. But here, the worst, occurred- death. Making Martha to say to Jesus "though we are close to you, if you had been here, our brother would not have died.

Yes. It's true. Lazarus would not have died. But Lazarus died so that the glory of God (Jesus) may be revealed. This revealed glory of Jesus brought about the conversion of many as "many of the Jews who visited the family to sympathise with Mary and Martha believed in Jesus. That Jesus is still the same today. 

Glory to Jesus.

                     IRENE TESA EGBUNIWE                    

OUR TRIALS ARE NOT USELESS                       

Since the year 2022 , it has been a difficult trial but through my journey and healing, my faith in God grew greatly even though sometimes I have questioned/still do question Him but I learnt that God is with us even when we are struggling and He seems silent/absent .

That He is with us in our weeping and rejoicing. 

The whole trial has shaken, deepened my faith, and made me mature in my faith. That is actually my bigger testimony, not even the healing. 

What the enemy thought would drive me away from God only drew me deeper to His side. 

I know it can be really hard(sincerely it is ooo) but when we are going through hard times/trials and it seems we are alone, let us ask God how He wants to reveal His glory or let us just trust that He will.                          

 HE IS A PROMISE KEEPER. 

OKOLO SAMUELSWEET (KSM)

A seed dies before it lives

Why would Jesus allow Lazarus to die just to teach that he was a life giver?

It was just one single reason. Nothing is lost when given to Christ.

Handover that disturbing situation to Jesus today. That business cannot die, those your dreams, visions and purpose will live again, your health will revive and your Dominion restored.

Jesus the resurrection and life, help me rise and sustain your glory in me n'aha Jesus.. Amen. 

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD (SATWOG– MARCH 14TH, 2026) INSPIRING REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS

Laity Reflections for 4th Sunday in Lent, Year A

First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1b;6-7;10- 13a

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1 -3a;3b-4;5;6 (R. 1)

Second Reading: Ephesians 5.8-14

Alleluia: John 8:12

Gospel: John 9:1-41

Ebonine Tochukwu Joachim, MCD

REFLECTION

Christ; the Light

In this 4th Sunday of lent, we explicitly see the theme of light from the 2nd and Gospel readings. Implicitly, this theme is also seen in the 1st reading.

We are invited to accept Christ who is the light that brings us to light and dispel every darkness in us, that we may seize to be people of darkness and become transformed into people of light.

Having accepted Christ: the light, we will begin to look not by sight but by faith (cf. 2 Cor. 5:7). We will begin to see as Christ would want us to see: greatness in little things, just as in the 1st reading, God instructed Samuel to anoint David; the little shepherd boy.

Having accepted Christ: the light, situations of our life will be turned to give glory to God, just as the man born blind. Our spiritual blindness will be healed for us to acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God and believe in Him.

This season of Lent, having accepted Christ the light, our eyes will be opened to our own darkness and secret behaviours, that we may repent of them all and begin to walk in the light with actions pleasing to God. 

We pray that our shackles of spiritual blindness may be healed by the light (Christ), that we may not be enclosed by self righteousness just like the Pharisees, but be open in humility for the darkness in us to be dispelled by the light of Christ. Amen!

 May we have a wonderful day ahead!!! 💞

Udeh Vincentsavio

REFLECTION

The first reading shows us that God's ways are not man's ways. Most times, man is moved by outer appearance, swayed by emotions and can be easily manipulated. This sometimes affects our life choices. We must always pray for the spirit of discernment and be totally submissive to the will of God.

The responsorial psalm is one of the most popular psalms. We have become so familiar with it that we do not reflect on the words and its meaning. When we recite the Psalm, do we do so like one reciting a familiar poem or literary work? Or do we recite it like one who truly knows the Shepherd?

Chris-Marie Obi

REFLECTION

The story of the appointment of David as king of Israel is one of the most fascinating stories in the Old Testament.

David was the youngest son in his family and seemed unrecognized. Even his father, Jesse, did not initially count him among the sons when Samuel came to anoint the next king.

Jesse presented seven of his sons before Samuel, yet God rejected every one of them. The one chosen by God was not in the house. He was somewhere in the field, quietly tending the animals. Only when David was brought in, did God reveal His choice.

This story reminds us of something powerful: you may not be recognized by people, you may not be counted among the important ones, but God knows you. He knows your name. He sees where you are, even when others overlook you.

And when the time is right, He will call you forward.

May God remember and recognize you. AMEN.

Edward Osivue Okhumoya

REFLECTION

The first reading is a testimony that the Lord works in a mysterious ways. His thinking is far from that of man. Samuel has envisioned and evaluate Eliab as the man fit for the job. But God sees the end from the beginning. This story, is what we all face everyday. We assumed like Samuel and make our judgement about others. But the blessing of God is not something man can predict.

David finds favour in the sight of God because of his relationship with him. It's better to stand alone when you are holding on to the truth than to join the winning team of sinners.

The connection of the Responsorial Psalm reminds us that, with God on our side we are more than conquerors. Imagine being shielded by a King, in this scenario (Lord almighty is a universal King). He will direct and guide us with wisdom and might, no evil will ever prevail over us, because even if we walk in the deepest darkness His staff will comfort and direct us.

The second reading, which is the letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, is an indicator and reminds us that the Lord is the light and life– when He walk with us, no matter the storm and darkness, His presence brings joy, love, comfort and victory over evil.

Finally, I will end my reflection on the great miracle done by our Lord Jesus Christ to the blind man who was born blind. The man made his own effort by believing and acting with strong faith. Miracles still exist till now. What stops yours? Each time you call on the Lord in the Tabernacle, is there a fear of "what if"? Instead drop the situation at Jesus' feet like the blind man did and see Him change the mourning into joy.

Paddy Kevwe

REFLECTION

Do not relent in doing that which is good because one day it will pay off for you. Do not forget the fact that no matter what we do, people must talk about it mostly in the negative light.

Jesus healed a blind man, and was called a sinner simply because he did that on the Sabbath day, but then, the good work he has done, by healing the man, continues to bear witness to the fact that He is not a sinner because others could see that His deeds are not of a sinner.

May we not be like the Pharisees who would do anything to bring Jesus down despite all the good works He has been doing, which are visible. Rather, we should emulate Jesus to do the work of Him who sent Him, and that work is that of doing good, healing and blessing others.

How far have you gone with your Lenten journey? 

Have you improved on doing good or evil?

Do you speak well of what others do or we castigate them with fabricated lies?

We still have time, for we rejoice today because we have gone halfway in our Lenten journey, we can still make a difference and decide to be better than what we used to.

May God help us with His grace, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Jude Okoro

REFLECTION

Dear friends in Christ, the readings of tomorrow powerfully calls us to shine out our light.

In the first reading in the book of 1st Samuel, God is reminding us that He looks and sees beyond our outward appearances but looks at the inner heart, and like David, we are chosen and anointed for a purpose in life which is to shine God's light in our lives, family and the world at Large.

The Lord is our Shepherd, as the Responsorial Psalm and Psalm 23 would say, God is guiding and will always comfort us through life's valleys, trials and tribulations. He prepares a table for us, anointing us with blessings and overflowing our cup, and his goodness and mercies would always be and abide with us always, and we shall end up in his heavenly kingdom for ever. Dear friends, this is God's promise to each and everyone of us.

That is why each and everyone of us has been called to live as children of light, so as to expose and overcome darkness in our lives and family.

In the Gospel of John, the story of the man born blind teaches each and everyone of us about the importance of spiritual sight. Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the Light of the world, he opens our eyes to see God's glory and gives us new life.

Dear friends in Christ, are we allowing God's light to shine through us? 

Are we seeing with our spiritual eyes? 

Today is a day of salvation, oh that today you listen to his voice, harden not your hearts. May God bless his words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, FEBRUARY 28TH, 2026

 SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS.

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT (A)
1st Reading:(Genesis 12: 1-4a)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM  (33:4-5. 18-19.20 and 22 (R. 22))
2nd Reading: (2 Timothy 1:8b-10)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 17:1-9)

Janet Meriabe Osuide

REFLECTION

    

The Transfiguration story is in the second Sunday of Lent to bring to Christ's followers' awareness the necessary connection between glory and suffering.

The announcement of His suffering and resurrection perplexed the disciples and raised troubling questions in their minds. With the revelation through the transfiguration to Peter, James and John, Jesus reassured them, strengthening their belief by a divine revelation that gave a glimpse of the heavenly kingdom. Such a preview was meant to refresh the disciples and encourage them to continue on with Jesus. 

We are disciples of Jesus, continually learning what it means to follow Him. By this, we must listen, be obedient and have faith in God just like our father Abram. He obeyed without doubt. We must not be afraid. We must always rise and follow Jesus without fear. It is in the presence of God that there is fullness of joy no matter the challenges of life.

 

Dear friends glory and suffering are necessary realities of this life. We must keep the revealed glory of heaven in focus to continue to navigate the narrow path that leads to eternal life.

Anne Aikpokhio

REFLECTION 

 Trusting God 

When Father Abram receives the message from God, he obeyed, trusting in God to fulfill the purpose of his call. Not minding the challenges he would faced in fulfilling his mission. He believes that God will not abandon him in his journey. 

As Christian, our calling is a journey to serve God not by our own merits but by the virtue of God purpose and grace upon our life. 

Hence, we should not be discouraged, but we should trust in God's mercy for the grace to get to our final destination....Heaven 

The 3 disciples behold the glory of God revealed to them and exclaimed prophetically... "It is good for us to be here". Nothing can be compared to God's glory. Abram did not hesitate to obey the call, because he trust God. We too should not hesitate but trust God for everything in life. 

 Heavenly race, I no go tire.

Just like the 3 disciples, may God open our eyes through the power of the Holy Spirit to behold his glory, give us the grace to journey through the various challenges in our Christian race and make heaven at last. Shalom. Amen 🙏

Igwe Mary Benita

REFLECTION 

In today’s readings, heaven meets earth in a powerful way.

 In the First Reading, Abraham is called to trust God completely. He does not see the full picture, yet he believes. God responds by sealing a covenant a reminder that when we entrust our lives to God, He is always faithful.

In the Gospel, on the mountain of Transfiguration, Jesus Christ reveals His glory to Peter the Apostle, James the Apostle, and John the Apostle. His face shines like the sun a glimpse of who He truly is. Yet the voice from heaven says something simple and direct: “Listen to Him.” The Christian life is not just about witnessing miracles; it is about obedience. It is about listening especially when God’s word challenges us to change.

The Second Reading reminds us that our true homeland is in heaven. We are not meant to live only for this world. Like Abraham, we are pilgrims. Like the apostles, we are being transformed but transformation requires surrender.

Today, the Lord invites us to climb the mountain with Him to leave behind sin, doubt, and fear. He touches us and says, “Rise, and have no fear.” If we listen to Him, if we trust Him, our lives too will begin to shine with His light. And that light can lead us and others to repentance and new life.

Angeles Christian 

REFLECTION 

Called to Faith, Strengthened by the Cross.

God called Abraham, and he responded in faith. In the same way, God calls each of us in the second reading to accept our share of suffering for the sake of the Gospel, through the power of God—to take up our cross and follow Him. Are we truly ready to accept whatever cross comes our way? Many people run away from the cross, yet it is unavoidable.

Carrying the cross is never easy, but with God it becomes lighter, because He has promised to walk with us and ease our burden—if only we allow Him. Just like Abraham, may God Almighty grant us the grace and strength to accept whatever cross may come our way and to carry it with Him, so that in the end we may not be found wanting. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏾

Martha Onuh

REFLECTION 

So Abraham went as the Lord had told him

In our first reading we read about the call of Abram, and it says that he went as the Lord had told him (obedience) 

In the Gospel we hear the spirit of God saying at the Transfiguration that "this is my beloved son, LISTEN TO HIM"

Are we listening, are we obeying just as Abram did? We are called to obedience this day, to listen to God and to Obey him in everything.

Chinwe Ann Udechukwu

REFLECTION 

“Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.”

Listening to this, I just imagine myself from a troubled family with lots of problems and burdens, going to Mass and hearing the homily from the priest and the singing from the choir and I really enjoyed it so much and I feel like not to depart from the church again because I felt happy and at peace and I feel like not going back to those problems and squabble because such gathering brings me peace and closer to God, but the test if what I felt in the church is not to remain in the church, but going back to those problems with a different mindset of that happiness I achieved from the gathering because Christ said, if you will be my disciple, carry your cross and follow me. The test of that happiness I attained at the church is the challenges I face in my everyday life. It is really good to come together in the church with our problems, anxieties, burdens, sorrows, needs, desires, and thanksgiving and listen to the word of God, join to sing, and receive our Lord Jesus Christ in the holy Eucharist. At the end we will go back to our different environments, workplace, houses as the disciples of Christ to carry out that experience we got from the Mass.

I ask myself, how much of that Mass do I take home to share or do I just leave everything there and go back as I came?

How much of that experience do I reflect in my way of life and encounter with people?

Social Friday (Celebrating OCCF members, February 2026)

 

At OCCF, We celebrate our members collectively at the end of the month, collate their intentions and have our Spiritual Director ( Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ) and his Assistant (Fr. Toby Ndiukwu) offer the Holy Mass for them.

We wish them many happy and fruitful returns..

Parabéns, dear members, and many blessings!

Meet Our February  2026 Celebrants🎈🥳😁

Patrick & Aritha Aleka

17TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 

Date - 14th February 

State of Origin - Cross River 

Chika Emenugha

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 19th February 

State of Origin - Imo state

Status - Married

Ilechie Ikemefuna

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 1st February 

State of Origin - Delta

Status - Married 

Atife Oghenerukevwe Valentina

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 14th February 

State of Origin - Delta

Status - Single

Ushie Ignatius

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 25th February 

State of Origin - Cross River

Status - Single

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Olusegun Joseph Ajayi-Choco

70TH BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 14th February 

State of Origin - Ekiti

Status - Married 

Barr. Nathaniel & Mrs Anthonia Ugorji

14TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 

Date - 11th February 

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, FEBRUARY 21ST, 2026

 SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS.

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT (A)
1st Reading:(Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM  (Ps 51:3-4.5-6ab. 12-13.14 and 17 (R. cf. 3a)
2nd Reading: (Romans 5:12- 19)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 4:1-11)

Jude Okoro

REFLECTION 

Friend's in Christ the readings remind us of the reality of sin and its consequences, it equally reminds us that Sin is a part of our human experience, but it's not the end of the story, but also the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ.

In the first reading from the book of Genesis we read about the fall of humanity through Adam's disobedience in the garden of Eden, where the serpent tempted Eve, and she and Adam ate the forbidden fruit, leading to sin and death entering into the world, and the beginning of our sufferings and challenges.

That is why we need to Cry out to God to have mercy on us just like the Psalmist in Psalm 51 cried out for mercy and forgiveness, acknowledging his sin and the sinfulness of his heart. Brethren, let us ask God to create a clean heart in us and to restore the joy of his salvation in our lives and in our families.

 In the second reading from St Paul, we can understand just as sin came into the world through Adam, so too did righteousness come through Jesus Christ our Lord, Through faith in Jesus, we can receive the gift of righteousness and eternal life.

Thats why in the Gospel we see Jesus facing temptation in the wilderness. He is tempted by Satan to turn stones into bread, to throw himself off a mountain, and to worship Satan in exchange for power. But Jesus resisted each temptation, quoting the Scripture and affirming his trust in God his Father.

Friend's in Christ are we aware of the sin in our life and the need for redemption? 

Are you trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation your Soul?

Friend's in Christ in these season of lent let us lean on God for strength to go through trials and tribulations and to do away with all that is not of God. 

May God bless His words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Okoronwko Ifeoma Vivian

REFLECTION 

According to the gospel reading. Jesus was tempted in the wilderness.

We as Christians when facing challenges, temptation or difficult times we should stand firm like Jesus did. 

May God give us the grace to always stand firm at all times in Jesus name. Amen.

Ebonime Tochukwu Joachim MCD  

REFLECTION 

By one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by one man's obedience many will be made righteous. 

Adam and Eve gave in to temptation due to their physical desire and greed ; once a little push came, they forgot of the Being who fashioned and positioned them in the garden and kept all at their disposal. Moreover, they were curious and Satan took advantage of their curiosity. (Curiosity they say kills the cat)

Jesus came to undo what was done by Adam. Filled by the Holy Spirit but also by bodily weakness from the 40 days fast and need for physical food, satan saw it as an opportunity. But the prince of Peace prevailed because the Spiritual led the physical.

Temptations come to us just as it came to Adam and Jesus. Satan looks for any slight opportunity we give to him and these opportunities come from our desires of the flesh. However, let's always be guided; never allow your carnal and physical desires overshadow your spiritual control. Even philosophers will opine that Man must not allow his passion to rule his mind ( Cf. La philosophie de Plato).

Hence, just as Jesus was filled with the Spirit, he overcame his bodily desires and material wants, may we also learn to be led and directed by the spirit to avoid being ruled by our carnal wants and desires. Amen!

Be guided, during this period of Lent, we might have decided to forfeit some things and take up some spiritual exercises in order to journey more intimately with Christ. This is what annoys Satan and triggers our carnality, temptations will be at it's peak this period that is why in her wisdom the church proposes the theme of temptation this 1st Sunday of Lent. May we be guided never to give in to temptation of any sort. Amen!!

Genevieve Nwaneri

REFLECTION 

No one is above temptation; absolutely no one. It's a part of our journey as christians.If Jesus Christ who was without sin was tempted, who are we to say we are above temptation. This also reminds us that temptation doesn't come in our happy or joyful moments, it comes in our vulnerable moments; when we are tired, discouraged or uncertain. 

Note that the devil presented Jesus with irresistible offers like bread to fill his appetite after being hungry from the fasting and the power and glory of the world to possess. But we should be aware that the Devil gives out with conditions;he is transactional. He collects what he gives in dangerous folds. 

 This Lenten season, we have different habits we would like to either give up or take up but there would always be temptation to compromise our fast. When these temptations comes, let God's word strengthen us.

Chika Nwaozuzu

REFLECTION 

Have mercy on us oh Lord for we have sinned. Ps 51.

*********************

Acknowledgement of our sin and asking for mercy and forgiveness is one attitude that puts us right with God. It's a show of humility. When we sin,we should not look for someone to blame rather, the blame should be on us and our desires. 

Perhaps if our first parent Adam and Eve had taken the blame for their actions and had uttered the words of David in PS 51,"Have Mercy On Us oh Lord for we have sinned", maybe, just maybe our world wouldn't have been in this mess we are today.

In the gospel, Jesus demonstrated in the first temptation that all our carnal desires are meant to be stopped immediately. We should not give them any room in our hearts and minds because by doing so,we are giving them a fertile ground to germinate and bear fruits. Jesus stopped this temptation with a firm refusal b4 it could gain much space in his mind. And James 1:13--15 warns us that "we could only be tempted by our desires and if not checked, would lead us to sin. Therefore Jesus warns that,all illicit appetites must be met upfront. Never let evil gain a foothold in your life because what nourishes the stomach is too slight a meal to satisfy the hunger of the soul.

In the second temptation Jesus reminds us that "fame quickly spoils the lives of those for whom it becomes a driving hunger. Fame is attractive because it offers us a kind of power and this power makes people to recognise us and exalts us. In our world today both Christian and secular,70 - 90% of men/women falls under this temptation. Jesus reminded satan and in deed all people that all worships should be accorded to God and God alone and not to our own egos. The adoration of ego is a fragile and disappointing worship.

The final temptation (Power)is one that all humans on earth are prone to fall into. Power allows us the freedom to stay on top of life by forcing others to use their own lives to serve us. When one has power, one can order life because power postpones dying. With power, you can save your own life while sacrificing others. With power, you run the show and call the shots. To sweeten this deal,satan showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and asked Jesus to fall down and worship him and all would be his. In deed Jesus wanted all nations to belong to his father and also falls in adoration before God but Jesus also knows that,satan can never give him all the nations at once. Though salvation is for all nations but the gospel would never conquer the entire continent. It would only conquer single souls at a time for those who truly believe. Jesus teaches here that, the only cure for those who hunger after power is to leave the shadowy worship of their egos and find an altar for a true God because anything from satan is never real.

May the Lord bless his words in our lives through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Emmanuel Ufuoma Rumeh Sekegor

REFLECTION 

✏️from the first reading, okpolor eye 👁 no be open eye meaning. If God tells us not to do something and we do it our eye will open. That thing we are looking for we will see 👀 it.

✏️ from the psalms.

When our eyes 👀 open and we realize our misdeeds we should ask God for mercy and grace to live upright.

✏️the second reading.

Because Christ don come we no dey under the law. And God pickin ( Christ) go help us overcome as the new Adam. 

✏️the Gospel passage 

Make us understand say no be only food go make us survive but every word of God that's as we dey chop food everyday make we dey chop the word of God too everyday. Shalom 🕊️🥰