St. Matthew Parish CMO Unveils Inaugural Council of Elders to Mentor and Guide


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-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

BENIN CITY, EDO STATE—The Catholic Men Organisation of Nigeria (CMON) at St. Matthew Parish in Benin City achieved a historic milestone on December 7, 2025, with the formal inauguration of its maiden Council of Elders. This significant event took place during the organization's final monthly general meeting of the year, underscoring its importance to the CMO's future structure and governance.

​A Foundation Built on Decades of Service

​St. Matthew Parish CMON has long been recognized as a cornerstone of faith and service within the local Catholic Diocese. Since its inception, the organization has consistently championed spiritual development, charitable works, and support for the priesthood. Its activities range from coordinating support for major parish projects and undertaking evangelization efforts, to hosting annual retreats and providing welfare assistance to its members. The dedication and active participation of its senior members have been pivotal to the CMO's sustained success and reputation for excellence within Benin City. The creation of the Council of Elders is a formal step to institutionalize the wisdom and experience generated over these decades of committed service.

​The Role and Significance of the New Council

​The establishment of this seven-man Elders Council marks a new era for the St. Matthew Parish CMO. The council is designed to be a crucial advisory and consultative body, leveraging the extensive professional and spiritual experience of its members. Their primary role will be to mentor younger members, provide strategic guidance on organizational affairs, mediate in matters requiring mature counsel, and act as custodians of the CMO's core values and traditions within the parish.

​A Charge to Wisdom and Commitment

​In his deeply moving address, the Chairman of the CMO, the distinguished Brother Oriarewo Ignatius, KSM, articulated the profound responsibility handed to the new Elders. He highlighted that their selection was a recognition not just of their age, but of their years of dedicated service and accrued wisdom.

​"As members of the council, you must first realize that it is God that made it possible for you to see your present age, and such age comes with so much experience and wisdom," Brother Oriarewo stated. He stressed that the organization views the council as an invaluable resource, adding, "We shall continue to consult you and learn from your wealth of wisdom, ensuring the continuity and ethical soundness of our organization." He charged them to remain unwaveringly committed to the tenets, principles, and spiritual mission of the Catholic Men Organisation, firmly declaring, "The words of our Elders are words of wisdom."

​Distinguished Inductees and Formal Recognition

​The seven eminent parishioners formally inducted into the prestigious Council of Elders, all of whom have demonstrated exemplary commitment to the Church and community, are:

  • ​Prof. Jonathan Isibor
  • ​Mr. Daniel Fowel
  • ​Dr. Augustine Iredia
  • ​Pharm. Clement Adodo
  • ​Eng. Charles Chuckwuma
  • ​Mr. Johnson A. Idahor
  • ​Mr. Herbert Okolie

​The ceremony reached its apex with the presentation of official Certificates of Honour, a solemn act that formally installed the Elders and acknowledged the parish's gratitude for their acceptance of this crucial, voluntary service. The move is expected to significantly strengthen the leadership structure of the St. Matthew Parish CMO for generations to come.

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