Today, His Eminence John Cardinal Olorunfemi Onaiyekan celebrated a mass at the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom palace chapel in Effurun, in commemoration of Saint Charles Borromeo, the Italian Cardinal known as the “loving reformer” who reshaped the church’s organisation.
During his homily, Cardinal Onaiyekan gave a historical account of the church, highlighting a time when emperors bowed before the Pope. He recounted Cardinal Borromeo’s contributions, noting that despite his noble lineage, Borromeo used his influence for humanity’s benefit.
He urged political leaders to consider the impact of their actions on the populace, reminding them of Christ’s words: “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul?”
The Cardinal prayed for leaders to govern with reverence for God, emphasising that their positions were divine assignments. He called on them to avoid pride and to rule in alignment with God’s will, fostering a happy and prosperous nation.
Cardinal Onaiyekan celebrated the fact that both the political and traditional leaders of Uvwie were Catholics, expressing hope that their leadership would lead to peace and prosperity in the kingdom.
HRM Emmanuel Ekemejewa Sideso, Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, attended the mass alongside Uvwie Local Government Chairman, Chief Anthony Ofoni and various political, religious, and traditional figures.
Saint Charles Borromeo, who lived during the Protestant Reformation, played a pivotal role in the reform of the Church, especially during the latter years of the Council of Trent.
Although he came from the Milanese nobility and was related to the Medici family, Borromeo devoted his life to the Church. In 1559, after his uncle became Pope Pius IV, Charles was appointed as cardinal-deacon and later as the administrator of the Archdiocese of Milan.
He was instrumental in keeping the Council of Trent ongoing when it faced potential dissolution. Despite his noble background, Borromeo lived modestly, dedicating most of his resources to charity, especially during the plague of 1576.
Exhausted by the demands of his office, Saint Charles Borromeo passed away at the age of 46, leaving a legacy of sacrifice and reform that continues to inspire the Catholic Church today.
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