On the serene morning of April 16th, 2025, the Ofuobi Africa Centre welcomed the staff of the Catholic Institute for Development Justice and Peace (CIDJAP) into its peaceful embrace, as the Institute observed its annual Easter Retreat—an exercise of spiritual reflection, healing, and renewal. It was a moment to pause, to breathe in grace, and to surrender hearts before the presence of God.
The retreat began with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, drawing everyone into a deep silence where words were no longer needed—only faith, gratitude, and longing. The sacred Host, elevated before all, invited each soul to commune with Christ in quiet meditation. In the stillness, tears welled in many eyes. Hearts heavy with life's burdens found comfort, and weary spirits were lifted in the embrace of divine love. The Sacrament of Reconciliation followed, and a long line formed as people moved to confession with hearts open and contrite. One by one, they knelt, confessed their sins, and rose renewed. A profound peace settled across the retreat ground, like the gentle dew of mercy falling on parched soil.
As the sun cast golden light through the hall, Rev. Fr. Francis Agu, the retreat anchor, stepped forward to deliver the day's retreat talk, titled "Remember Me, Oh Lord." His voice, gentle yet stirring, carried a powerful message that reached deep into the hearts of the listeners. "No one is forgotten before God," Fr. Agu reminded all. "Even when the world passes you by, God remembers you. And His remembrance brings life, healing and purpose."
Many could be seen nodding, some clutching their rosaries tightly, others quietly wiping their eyes. It was a moment that touched everyone, not just in mind, but in soul. Then came the Holy Mass, the high point of the retreat. The readings, the homily, the prayers—all flowed like music from heaven. As the Body and Blood of Christ were received, the sense of unity, healing, and spiritual rebirth was almost tangible.
After the sacred, came the joyful: refreshments were shared, not just to feed the body, but to nourish the community that had gathered in faith. Laughter returned to faces, conversations sparked with warmth, and a shared meal sealed the beautiful day of grace and reflection. The 2025 CIDJAP Easter Retreat was not just a scheduled program—it was a sacred encounter. It was a day where hearts cried out and heaven answered. A day when the Lord remembered His people and His people remembered their God. And as everyone slowly made their way home from Ofuobi Africa Centre, one truth lingered in every heart: "God never forgets. In our silence, our struggles, and our simple prayers—He remembers."
