The first group of bishops of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) from the provinces of Onitsha, Benin, Ibadan, Owerri and, Lagos, on March 6, met with Pope Leo XIV during their ad limina Apostolorum visit.
The ad Limina visit which began from 1 March is expected to last till the 16th of March. The Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey F.I Onah, who is actively attending the sacred event, was seen in a group photograph with the Metropolitan See of Onitsha, Archbishop Valerian Okeke among others.
An Ad Limina Visit (from the Latin Ad Limina Apostolorum, meaning “to the thresholds of the Apostles”) is the official visit that Catholic bishops make to Rome to report on the state of their dioceses and to meet the Pope. The phrase refers to visiting the tombs of the Apostles, especially Saint Peter the Apostle and Saint Paul the Apostle, which are located in Rome.
During the visit, bishops pray at these tombs and renew their communion with the universal Church and the successor of Peter, the Pope. Bishops also meet officials of the Roman Curia to discuss areas such as evangelization, education, liturgy, and clergy formation. Also, the visit allows the universal Church to assess pastoral realities across different countries.
In general, its purpose is to strengthen unity with the Pope, review the life of the Church in each diocese, and consult with the Roman Curia on pastoral matters.
The visit of bishops to the tomb of Saint Peter the Apostle during the Ad Limina Visit has deep spiritual and ecclesial significance.
First, it signifies communion with the Apostolic Foundation. Praying at the tomb of Saint Peter the Apostle reminds bishops that their ministry continues the mission of the apostles in the Church.
Secondly, it symbolises unity with the Successor of Peter. Since the Pope is the successor of Peter, the visit symbolizes the bishops’ communion and loyalty to the universal Church under his leadership.
© The Concourse Media
