The Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA), Port Harcourt, Nigeria, resumes academic activities for  2024/2025 academic session, bringing a wave of excitement and anticipation across its vibrant community. After a brief pause for the Yuletide season—a time marked by deep spiritual reflection and celebration—the institute comes alive once again, as staff and students return to campus with renewed vigour and purpose.

The resumption coincides with the  lingering joy of the Christmas season, which will  officially culminate on January 12 with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. For CIWA’s enthusiastic students, January holds a mix of academic milestones and celebrations, infusing the air with an atmosphere of dedication and resolve. From postgraduate scholars working against the clock to finalize their project submissions to doctoral candidates bracing for comprehensive examinations in disciplines like Canon Law, Spiritual Theology, Moral Theology, and Pastoral Theology, the campus is abuzz with intellectual activity.

Undergraduates and second-degree students will  have their share of significant moments, with their matriculation ceremony scheduled to coincide with the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas. Meanwhile, the semester's crescendo will be the first-semester examinations, set to commence on January 31, the Feast of St. John Bosco, and conclude on February 14, St. Valentine’s Day. For students of the  penultimate classes, February 3 marks a crucial deadline to submit project topics, further heightening the academic pace.

Adding to the month's highlights, the prestigious Hilton-CIWA graduation program for female religious across the African region is set for January 15. The event and program , coordinated by Sr. Dr. MaryJane Aririgugozo, IHM, who also doubles as the Head of   Canon Law Department, is poised to draw attendees from far and wide. Known for her meticulous planning and deep commitment to religious formation, Sr. MaryJane has extended a heartfelt invitation to the wider community to join in celebrating this milestone.

Behind the scenes, CIWA’s Rector, Very Revd Fr Prof Jude Abidemi Asanbe, ever the epitome of diligence and foresight, has been steadfast in his preparations to ensure a seamless transition into the new year. He has instructed utility staff to leave no stone unturned in creating an environment conducive to learning and growth. In his characteristic blend of wisdom and encouragement, he reminded students of the fleeting nature of time and urged them to immerse themselves fully in their studies. His New Year’s message to the CIWA family echoes with hope and determination: “Time moves on, and so must we. Let us make the most of 2025”, even as  he wishes staff and students a productive and blissful 2025. The institute also takes a moment to celebrate Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Samuel Gwimi, the former Dean of Students Affairs and current Head of  Moral Theology Department, on the occasion of his 30th priestly ordination anniversary—a milestone of grace and dedication.

Beyond CIWA’s campus, the global Catholic Church has seen notable developments. Pope Francis appointed Sr. Simona Brambilla as the first female prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, marking a transformative step in Vatican leadership. Dr. Roza Pati was also named to the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. In Nigeria, Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins welcomed the new papal nuncio in Lagos, and Fr. Michael Banjo assumed office as Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria. Cardinal John Onaiyekan celebrated the 42nd anniversary of his episcopal ordination, highlighting a lifetime of devoted service.

Elsewhere, Monsignor Renato Tarantelli Baccari was ordained as a bishop at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint John Lateran, with Pope Francis in attendance. The Dicastery for Evangelization launched “Jubilee is Culture,” a film program exploring humanity’s spiritual yearnings. The Diocese of Lexington in the United States initiated a Laudato Si’ Action Plan, emphasizing environmental stewardship. These activities underscore the Church’s engagement with governance, social issues, and global spiritual leadership.

As CIWA’s gates swing open to welcome back its community, the resounding message is one of purpose, progress, and prayerful reflection. This is more than a resumption; it is a renewal—a call to embrace the challenges and opportunities of a new academic year with faith and fervour 

Fr. Okhueleigbe Osemhantie à

@CESACC-CIWA, Jan 7, 2025