By Adewale Kupoluyi
A few days ago, I had the opportunity to attend the review of a book titled Catholic Men Organisation, Church of the Ascension, New Bodija, Ibadan: Two Decades of Indelible Landmark.
The 72-page book, compiled and edited by Ayo Akinyemi, Adewale Kupoluyi, and Abiola Layonu, was published by Media Reports Projects in 2024 and reviewed by Dr Maria Ekpenyong of the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
The reviewer observed that the Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) has contributed significantly to the growth and progress of the church over the past 20 years.
She noted that the purpose of the book review, apart from celebrating this remarkable milestone, was to document relevant events, achievements, challenges, and even threats for posterity.
It also aimed to provide a critical analysis that highlights the value of “this amazing document” while broadening readers' understanding and making recommendations for prospective readers.
Dr Ekpenyong added that the publication’s introduction was preceded by a foreword from Most Reverend (Dr.) Peter Odetoyinbo, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abeokuta, and an introduction from the Chairman of the 20th Anniversary Planning Committee, Chief Abiola Layonu.
This is lucidly followed by a dedication to Saint Joseph, described as “a model of fatherhood.”
In the same vein, the incumbent President of CMO, Dr Victor Ekun, expressed gratitude to the elders and founding members of the CMO, describing this development as “his moment of history” and offering special appreciation to all members.
The preliminary content of the book features the foreword, introduction, and dedication.
The book comprises eight chapters and employs an episodic approach, dividing the content into distinct segments. Each segment provides a detailed narration, covering substantive activities, achievements, and challenges faced by the CMO.
Chapter One, titled “Moments of History,” emphasizes teamwork, selfless service, and the commitment of members in the activities hosted by the CMO in the Church of the Ascension.
Chapter Two, “Saint Joseph: A Model of Fatherhood,” authored by Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu, vividly outlines the virtues of fatherhood and reflects on the role of fathers in the church—qualities worthy of emulation by CMO members across all parishes.
Chapter Three, “CMO: Church of the Ascension—A Historical Excursion,” features a historical account by the Pioneer President, Dr Adewale Kupoluyi.
He details the founding of the CMO as an umbrella body for men in the Church of the Ascension, initiated by the then Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Odetoyinbo, now Bishop of the Abeokuta Diocese.
Dr Kupoluyi also narrates the formative stages and structure of the CMO.
Chapter Four, titled “CMO: From Strength to Strength,” written by Abel Oluwole Abimbola, critically appraises the growth of the CMO over the years.
Chapter Five, “My Stewardship as President,” authored by Sir Sam Korie, the third President of the CMO, elaborates on the relevance, aims, and historical progression of the organisation.
Chapter Six, “CMO: Happy to be Part of the Story,” by Chief Emmanuel Oyegoke, identifies and appraises the achievements of the CMO.
Chapter Seven, “Rendering Account of Stewardship,” by Chief Abiola Layonu, summarises the organisation's laudable projects and achievements over the past 20 years, concluding that the society has successfully mobilised men of the Parish towards active spiritual participation.
Chapter Eight captures “Goodwill Messages” from dignitaries, reflecting on the organisation's journey and accomplishments.
An overview of the book reveals it as a source of wisdom, covering a wide range of topics, including the history, activities, achievements, challenges, and prospects of the CMO, as well as fostering love and unity among members.
Key findings indicate that the CMO in the Church of the Ascension is a strong, stable, and sustainable organisation that promotes spiritual growth and service within the Parish.
It has also positively influenced families, the church, and society as a whole.
The reviewer highlighted the book’s strengths, such as its clear writing style, contributions from experienced and seasoned authors, and the verifiable sources it employs.
The strong spiritual backing of the book, particularly from bishops, reverend fathers, and other church leaders, enhances its credibility.
Notably, the CMO's distinction as the first of its kind in the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan is an undeniable strength. Furthermore, the book acknowledges challenges such as funding, low membership, and the inability to revive the Bodija CMO Newsletter.
The reviewer praised the book’s accuracy, objectivity, and aesthetic quality, noting its explicit content, historical photographs, and colourful design.
In terms of relevance, the book highlights the CMO’s role in fostering spiritual growth, faith-building, community support, counselling, and mentoring among members.
Some of the significant achievements outlined in the book include hosting annual Parish harvest and Thanksgiving events, Father’s Day celebrations, spiritual retreats, yearly symposia, health talks, the drafting of a constitution, regular monthly meetings, and succession planning.
The book also discusses impactful committees such as the Spiritual Committee, which drives optimal performance, and highlights the CMO's involvement in church administration through its active participation in the Parish Pastoral and Laity Councils.
In conclusion, the book underscores the CMO in the Church of the Ascension as a strong, stable, and unified body that continues to promote spiritual growth and service among members.
It celebrates the organisation’s vision of strengthening members' faith and encouraging them to serve the church generously with their time, talents, and resources.
This book is highly recommended for readers, as it offers valuable insights into the role of the CMO in fostering spiritual and community development.
•Dr. Kupoluyi is the Pioneer President of Bodija CMO•
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