The Nigerian Catholic Community, Glasgow and its environ in the United Kingdom on Sunday November 9 hosted a special dinner in honour of priests and reverend sisters in the community.
During the dinner some non Catholics who have been supporting the community were given special awards and recognition.
The event took place at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Tollcross, Glasgow and it attracted notable individuals within and outside the Catholic Church.
They include the Archbishop of Glasgow, Most Rev. William Nolan, Bishops of Paisley, Most Rev. John Keenan and Bishop of Motherwell, Most Rev. Joseph Toal.amongs among many others
The evening was filled with joy and vibrant music from the NCCGe Charismatic Choir, lifting the souls of the attendees and energising them
Awards
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the Friend of the Catholic Faith Award to three distinguished non-Catholic individuals who have supported the community over the years.
The awardees include HRH Ezekwesiri I, Eze Igbo of Glasgow, Chukwuemeka Ogbu, Chief Dr. Uche Nwachukwu and Engr Toyin Odukudu
The Community Chairman, Mr. Olufemi Alalade in his welcome address at the dinner expressed great joy at the coming together of the priests and the opportunity of being a blessing to humanity.
He said the goal of the dinner is to appreciate the men and women of the clergy and make them know that they are loved and cared for.
“This is our own small way of saying thank you for being there and for being so caring to the flock under you. The goal of this dinner is to express our deep appreciation for the great work you are doing in God’s vineyard.’
Alalade also thanked the awardees stating that the award presented to them is a token of love and appreciation .’You have been a blessing to us. We are saying thank you for supporting us.” He said
He recalled how the community started 16 years ago. “We have worshipped together, celebrating Mass in a uniquely Nigerian way—filled with energetic songs and dances that reflect the vibrant spirit of our heritage.
“Each Mass concludes with a reception, providing an opportunity for members to network, explore mutual benefits, and discuss challenges and solutions as a united community. Our members are spread across Glasgow, Paisley, Motherwell, and surrounding towns.” He said.
While it’s a Nigerian Catholic community, Alalade says, it is open to other nationalities of the same faith. Of particular interest is that NCCGE also has two vibrant groups: the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) and the Catholic Youth Organisation (CYO).
Also speaking at the programme, the Event Committee Chairman, Dr. Cajeetan Eberendu, thanked all the attendees. He expressed appreciation to all those who made the event a great success especially the bishops, while expressing hope that future event will be better.
The dinner which lasted for about four hours turned out to be a great time of fellowship and reunion of people from different walks of life.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Esther Ijasan, one of the youths and the Chaplain of the community, , Rev. Fr. Dauda Ezra.
What we do in Nigerian Catholic community
In a later interview with Church Times, Alalade stated that the Nigerian Catholic Community in Glasgow and its environ has over the years maintained the tradition of Nigerian Catholicism.
“We hold Harvest and Bazaar events every two years. This joyful gathering brings together the entire community—including clergy—to give thanks for God’s blessings. It also serves as a fundraising opportunity toward our goal of acquiring a permanent place of worship.
“During the summer, also biennially, we host a Family Summer Barbecue. This event allows us to enjoy the rare Scottish sunshine, share food and drinks, and create lasting memories—especially for the children, who are always at the heart of our celebrations.”
He said the community also works towards supporting the spiritual growth of its members. “We run regular programmes such as the Know Your Faith Series, October Devotion, and Divine Mercy Prayers.
“At the core of all our spiritual and community activities are our dedicated clergy. In recognition of their tireless service and vital role in our moral and spiritual well-being, we honour them every two years. That is what we did on Sunday November 9”