The Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Animators of the Archdiocese of Lagos have held their third quarter general meeting, bringing together representatives from parishes across the Archdiocese to deliberate on programmes aimed at strengthening the faith, morals, and missionary spirit of children. The meeting, which took place at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Gbaja, Lagos, was coordinated by Sr. Doris Gali (SHCJ), MCA Archdiocesan Coordinator, and Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Irabor, Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) Director, , who was present to guide the deliberations.
Quarterly MCA meetings serve as a platform for Animators to review past programmes, plan future events, and receive reports from Deanery Coordinators and various subcommittees, including the Rally with the Archbishop Committee, Enrollment Committee, Media Team, and SOMA representatives. This quarter’s meeting was particularly special as it featured the presence of the former PMS Director, Very Rev. Msgr. Bernard Okodua, and the Laity Chairman of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Gbaja, Lagos, Dr. Celestine Chukuneye, whose participation was warmly acknowledged by attendees.
Speaking after the deliberations, Sr. Doris Gali expressed gratitude for the commitment and active participation of Animators across the Archdiocese. “Our mission is to help children live out the objectives of the MCA, grow in their faith, and embrace the missionary spirit of the Church,” she said. The gathering concluded with light refreshments and a blessing, as participants expressed renewed commitment to guiding MCA children in faith formation and moral development.
Festac Deanery enrolls 439 Children, 13 Patrons into Missionary Childhood Association
In a vibrant celebration of faith and mission, the Festac Deanery recently enrolled 439 children and 13 patrons into the Missionary Childhood Association (MCA). The enrollment ceremony, which drew participants from eight parishes within the deanery, took place at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Amuwo Odofin, Festac. Enrollment into the MCA is a significant milestone for baptised children under 14 years, introducing them to the mission, aims, and objectives of the association.
Through this formation, children are guided to embrace the missionary spirit of the Church, developing empathy, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to prayer, sacrifice, sharing, and evangelising their peers. The event was graced by Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Irabor, PMS Director and Chief Celebrant, alongside Sr. Doris Gali (SHCJ), Archdiocesan MCA Coordinator, who facilitated the enrollment rites. Also present were Rev. Fr. Fidelis Enejo Okpanachi, S.Ss.R and Rev. Fr. Anthony Eze, the host Parish Priest and Deanery Chaplain.
Describing the ceremony as a resounding success, organisers expressed gratitude for the large turnout and active participation of the children and their families. They also commended the commitment of parish Animators and patrons whose guidance continues to nurture the faith and missionary zeal of young Catholics across the deanery. The enrollment ended with prayers of thanksgiving, as participants were reminded of their mission to be “little missionaries” for Christ — spreading the Gospel message through their words, actions, and prayers.
