The younger generation of Nigerians have been advised to be patient and prayerful when discerning their vocation, whether to the priesthood, religious life, marriage, or single life.
A University don, Sir Prof Jerry Idialu, gave the advice at a public lecture entitled: “Patience as a Christian Virtue and its Embodiment in Fr. Ojefua’s Life”, which he delivered at the 2025 Annual Ojefua Lecture organized by the Grand Knight, Knights and Ladies of St. Mulumba, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, West End, Asaba, Sub-Council.
Prof Idialu, a member of the Governing Council of Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma , former Grand Knight of Ekpoma Sub-Council and one-time Chairman, National Death Benefits Trust Fund, said the advice became expedient because rushing into decisions without prayer and spiritual guidance often led to regret.
He noted that patience was not simply the ability to wait, but the grace to endure trials, delays, and disappointments with calm faith and unwavering trust in God, as well as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit and a mark of true Christian maturity.
From a Christian standpoint, he defined patience as more than a natural trait; but as well a supernatural virtue, a grace-assisted strength that allowed a person to endure suffering and remain faithful to God, even when circumstances seemed difficult, confusing, or prolonged.
The Guest Speaker described the theme of the lecture as both spiritually enriching and practically relevant, especially in a society that often favoured instant gratification over long-suffering endurance.
On why focus on patience and Fr. Abraham Anselm Isidahome Ojefua, he explained that patience was a virtue desperately needed in personal life, in the Church, and in the nation at large, while focus on Fr. Ojefua was because his life beautifully illustrated this virtue in action, just as his unwavering patience in the face of delays, especially his long and difficult journey toward a contemplative life, demonstrated the strength of a soul anchored in God.
Reflecting on patience as a Christian virtue and how it was lived out in the life of Fr. Ojefua, Prof Idialu noted that early
experiences of family resistance, hardship, and delayed opportunities, all formed in him the virtues of patience, perseverance, and obedience, which would become cornerstones of his character.
The Guest Speaker stated that despite job offers upon completing his primary education, Abraham felt a divine calling to the priesthood, which went against his family’s expectations, particularly his mother, who strongly opposed the move.
According to him, pressure and the promise of immediate gain notwithstanding, Fr Ojefua patiently held to his conviction, trusting that his true calling lay in the service of God. His ability to discern God’s will in silence and stick to it in the face of family opposition showed early signs of the spiritual virtue of patience, waiting on God’s time rather than rushing into comfort.
“As we commemorate Ojefua Day, it is fitting that we not only honour his memory but also learn from his example. His patience was not passive; it was purposeful and heroic. It calls us to a deeper trust in God’s timing and a more faithful endurance in our own spiritual journeys.
“The life of Fr. Abraham Anselm Isidahome Ojefua is not merely a historical account of a holy man. It is a living template for every Christian who desires to walk the path of patience, faith, and holiness. His story teaches us concrete, spiritual lessons we can apply in our daily lives.
“Fr. Ojefua reminds us that answering God’s call is not always immediate or easy. It takes courage and patience to say “yes” to God’s plan, especially when family, society, or personal desires pull us in another direction.
“In a world that values self-expression and independence, Fr. Ojefua teaches us the virtue of humble submission to legitimate authority, especially within the Church and family. Obedience, when rooted in love and trust, leads to peace.
“From one monastery to another, from roles accepted to roles relinquished, Fr. Ojefua remained steadfast and composed. He never allowed discouragement to defeat him or turn him away from his purpose.
“Life is full of setbacks, but disappointments do not mean defeat. Fr. Ojefua’s life calls us to keep our hearts focused on Christ even when our plans do not work out as expected. God’s purpose will prevail if we remain faithful.”
“Fr. Ojefua’s return to Nigeria to live as a hermit in Illah was a profound statement of his unwavering commitment to the monastic ideal. He lived in poor, uncompleted buildings, farmed his own food, and maintained a strict life of prayer.
Christians today must learn that commitment to one’s God-given mission is more important than comfort or recognition.
“In the life of Fr. Abraham Anselm Isidahome Ojefua, patience was not passive endurance, but a dynamic and spiritual strength. He waited for years to fulfil his monastic calling, accepted rejection without bitterness, and chose the narrow path of prayer, simplicity, and obedience, all without complaint. His response to hardship was not frustration but faith. His trials became stepping stones to deeper union with God.
“I sincerely thank the Saint Patrick Sub-Council West End Asaba of the Order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba, Nigeria, for the honour of inviting me to deliver this year’s Ojefua Day Lecture. It is a privilege to be part of your celebration of the life and legacy of our revered founding father, Fr. Abraham Anselm Isidahome Ojefua, Servant of God”, Prof Idialu said.
The occasion, which was chaired by the Worthy Grand Knight, Sir Victor Onwunedo and moderated by Sir Christopher C Chukwurah, started with a Holy Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Peter Ndinwa, the Postulator of the Ojefua Sainthood Movement.
The Supreme Worthy Public Relations Officer of the Order ,Sir Austin Mowah and the Postulator served as Panelists during the question and answer session.
Questions were centred on the role of the Diocesan and the Order of the Knights of St Mulumba in pursuit of the course to Sainthood of Fr. Ojefua, the contrast of the life of Mother Theresa of Kolkota and Fr. Ojefua which shows that there are many paths to becoming a Saint in the Church.
The Deputy Grand Knight, Sir Okwunze reported the official inauguration of the Ojefua Movement in the Sub-Council by the Vicar General of Issele-Uku Diocese, Rev Fr. Peter Mobuogwu on the first week of July, 2025.
He also disclosed that they booked Masses for the success of the Movement and elected officials according to the Ojefua Movement Manual.
Copies of the book, “The Call an Path to Sainthood” (2018) written by Sir Chris C Chukwurah was distributed pro bono to over 50 participants most of who turned up in their Ojefua Movement attire.
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