January 3, 2025, was a momentous day for the Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus (EHJ) Novitiate Community in Ibonwon, Epe, Lagos. The community welcomed the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, accompanied by Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of the Metropolitan See of Lagos and other dignitaries. The EHJ Novitiate Community, founded in 1943 by Archbishop Leo Hale Taylor, is a Religious Institute of Pontifical Right dedicated to raising educated African Sisters for missionary work. The community’s spirituality is rooted in Eucharistic spirituality, with apostolates in education, healthcare, pastoral and social works, mass media, and hospitality.
Archbishop Leo Hale Taylor was the first Archbishop of Lagos. The atmosphere was electric with joy and anticipation as the community prepared for the historic visit. The convent was immaculately cleaned, and the Sisters eagerly awaited the arrival of their special guests. Upon arrival, the Papal Nuncio was warmly greeted with a bouquet of flowers, harmonious singing, and dancing. The community then processed to the chapel for a brief moment of silent adoration before the tabernacle. Archbishop Martins introduced the Papal Nuncio to the community, and the Superior, Rev. Sr. Mary Roseline Isiocha, delivered a heartfelt welcome address. She expressed the community’s immense privilege and honour in receiving the Papal Nuncio and thanked him for sharing his time with them. The Papal Nuncio responded with warmth and kindness, acknowledging the community’s efforts and dedication. He offered words of encouragement, particularly to the novices, reminding them of the seriousness and obedience required of their vocation. The highlight of the visit was the imparting of the Papal Nuncio’s apostolic blessing, which left the community feeling united and spiritually excited.
The novices were overjoyed, touching and kissing his episcopal ring repeatedly. Before departing, the community took a group photograph with the Papal Nuncio, capturing a moment of divine grace and happiness. The novices presented him with a beautifully crafted greeting card and sang a joyful Christmas song. The visit ended with a mix of joy and reverence, marking an extraordinary day for the EHJ Novitiate Community. The Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus was founded for Lagos Archdiocese as indigenous African Sisters, though the congregation is now of pontifical right but still for the Archdiocese.
