Gift of the Spirit: Celebrating the Diaconate Ordination of Patrick Obot and John Asuquo

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On Sunday, May 24, 2026, coinciding with the Solemnity of Pentecost, the Diocese of Ikot Ekpene celebrated a momentous step in the continuation of the saving work of Jesus Christ. Our Chief Shepherd, Most Rev. Camillus R. Umoh, ordained two seminarians—Patrick Obot and John Asuquo—as deacons, marking a joyful milestone for the Church and our mission of service.

A Sacred Milestone at the “Seed Bed”

The solemn ceremony took place at the prestigious Queen of Apostles Seminary, Afaha Obong. This institution serves as the vital “seed bed” that produces candidates for the sacred priesthood within the Diocese. The ordination rites were particularly touching and inspiring for the young seminarians in attendance, offering them a clear vision of the path of formation and leadership that lies ahead.

A Call to Sacrifice and Example

In his homily, Bishop Umoh reminded the new deacons to be ready to work and sacrifice everything for their divine calling. He encouraged them to allow the Holy Spirit to guide their ministry at all times, offering a powerful charge: “Be a good clergy, do not be led astray, live by example”. This message underscores the Diocese’s commitment to ensuring our clergy remain authentic witnesses to the Gospel.

Unity in Prayer and Formation

The Rector of the seminary, Rev. Fr. Anthony Okon, expressed his deep gratitude to the Bishop for selecting the seminary as the venue for this historic occasion. He also thanked the new deacons for their willingness to serve God and prayed for continued grace as they begin their diaconal ministry. The event was a beautiful display of faith and unity, well-attended by priests, religious, and lay faithful who gathered to support these new leaders.

Our Gratitude to Supporters

We are grateful to share this update with our partners and benefactors in the United States. In his final remarks, Bishop Umoh extended a special word of thanks to everyone who has supported these seminarians throughout their years of study. Your generosity toward seminary formation directly impacts the future of the Church, ensuring that our Diocese remains a vibrant place of prayer, formation, and service.

Two priests in red liturgical vestments performing a gesture during a religious ceremony inside a church, with a wooden crucifix in the background.
Clergy members in red vestments are interacting inside a church during a ceremony, with seated congregation members in the background.
Clerics in red vestments during a religious ceremony, embracing each other in front of an officiating priest.
Two men in red liturgical robes raise their hands in a ceremonial gesture during a religious service, with other attendees seated in the background.
Clergy members in red vestments interacting during a religious ceremony inside a church.
A group of clergy members in red vestments participating in a religious ceremony, with two individuals lying on the floor, central to the event.
A religious ceremony featuring a seated bishop in red vestments, surrounded by kneeling clergy members in traditional robes, taking part in a church service.
A religious ceremony with individuals in traditional attire, including a bishop in red vestments and others in white robes, engaged in a ritual of kneeling and ordination.
Two individuals in traditional robes with red sashes stand in a church, praying with hands clasped, while a congregation is seated in the background.

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