The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos State, on Thursday, charged 11 newly ordained priests on service to God, the people and living a life of sacrifice.
The Church gave the charge at the ordination of young priests to sustain Gospel propagation in the society.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was held at the Holy Cross Cathedral Lagos.
Among those ordained were Rev. Augustine Dodo, Rev. Anthony Eze, Rev. Benedict Emeka-Anike and Rev. Raphael Onah.
Others are Rev Benjamin Oddi, Rev Peter Dennis-Ulasi, Rev Callistus Onyele, Rev. Martin Igbadumhe, Rev. Kizito Emenalo, Rev. Emmanuel Eze and Rev. Christopher Ngbede.
In his homily at the event, the Lagos Catholic Archbishop, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale- Martins, described priesthood as a vocation of service and sacrifice dear to God.
Adewale-Martins said, ” My sons, you are now to be advanced to the order of the Presbyterate.
“You must apply your energy to the duty of teaching in the name of Christ.
“Let the doctrine you teach be the nourishment for the people of God.
“Let the example of your life attract the followers of Christ so that by word and action you may build up the house which is God’s Church,” he said.
The Assistant Vocation Director of the Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Collins Ugochukwu, after the laying of hands and kiss by the High Priest, tasked the priests to be focused in their duty as minister of God.
NAN reports that the ordination was part of activities to celebrate the 40 years priestly ordination and 25 years consecration of Adewale-Martins as bishop.
The Archbishop had, at a Holy Mass to concentrate the anniversaries on Saturday, received a papal award from Pope Francis in recognition of his stewardship.
The week-long activities end on Sunday with a Holy Mass at the cathedral and visits to orphanage homes
