See Photos: Catholics in Warri Diocese conclude October Devotion in Oleri

The month of October is a special month for Catholics all over the world, as it is dedicated to
Mary, the mother of God, hence the name October devotion. In this month Catholics are expected to pray their rosary alongside visitation to the Blessed Sacrament. 

The observance of the October devotion dates back to the year 1883, when it was formerly declared by Pope Leo XIII. It is based on this that catholics all over the take seriously the October devotion. This was the case also for catholics in the diocese of Warri as they turned up in their numbers to honour Mary at the Marian shrine, Oleri.

The ceremony started with the sacrament of penance, at about 10:12am. This activity took about two hours, due to the crowd after which there was a brief exultation by Rev. Fr. Lucas Okuokuoko which was titled Communion of Saints.

The holy mass started at about 12:10pm. The homily was given by Rev. Fr. Orudje. In his homily, he spoke on the value of the rosary which is greatly diminishing in families, saying the rosary should occupy the most important part of our spiritual journey. In the words of Pope John Paul II he said, “It is a prayer of great significance, destined to bring Christians together in holiness.

He further encouraged the congregation to pray the rosary for the church, family, and for the catholic diocese of Warri.

The ceremony ended with the benediction and blessing of sacred items at about 2:30pm.