25th March 2025 marked a very significant milestone for the school community within ‘Marie Balavenne’ Catholic College, Ilogbo, Nigeria, as the statue of the Blessed Virgin newly installed was blessed with the opening of the Marian Grotto. This very special event coincided with the solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord to Mary.
The blessing and the opening of the Marian Grotto was indeed a solemn and joyous occasion which was officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese, Most Rev Peter Kayode Odetoyinbo. In his words of exhortation, Bishop Odetoyinbo emphasized on the significance of the Grotto as a symbol of Mary’s presence and guidance. He encouraged the students, staff, and all present to seek Mary’s intercession and to emulate her virtues of humility, obedience, and compassion.
The grotto had always been a burning desire and wish of the principal of the college Sr Rosemary Etim DHS. This dream came to accomplishment when the family of Sr Etim, presented the new Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary as a souvenir on her 50th birthday which was officially celebrated on 18th January 2025.
The beautiful statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, has been carefully crafted and installed within the newly built grotto. It provides a new look, creating a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The statue serves as a reminder of Mary’s maternal love and care for the students, staff, and faculty members of Marie Balavenne Catholic College. The sight of the Grotto looks so attractive and inviting for prayers. It was so cherished by all, including the students who love to recite their Rosary prayer around the school compound every time. A testament to the devotion and faith of the school community, the Grotto will undoubtedly become a place of pilgrimage for many, especially the pupils who, every May and October, make a point of devoting themselves to the Marian devotion by taking part in a rosary procession. This new place will create a magnificent space for these events of prayer.
The ceremony was attended by the pupils and staff Holy Spirit Nursery and Primary School, students and members of staff of Marie Balavenne Catholic College, parents, the school Chaplain Rev Fr Nyakno Sam, the Parish priest of ‘Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic’, Church Ilogbo, Rev Fr Alphonsus Obiele MSP and the Parishioners. In attendance also were the Dean of the Deanery, Very Rev Fr Gilbert Fagbemi, Religious and Lay-Faithful from the neighbouring Deanery.
Hymns and prayers of the rosary in honour of the Virgin Mary were the highlights of this inauguration, as was the bishop’s blessing of the statue and the entire congregation.
Throughout the town of Ilogbo, it was a ceremony the first of its kind, to the glory of God.
By Sister Rosemary ETIM, DHS. Published on 1 April 2025
