Faith, Honor, and Duty: KSJI Benin Grand Commandery Ushers in New Leadership with Grand Thanksgiving Mass


-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

​BENIN CITY – The atmosphere at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Ikpoba Hill, was charged with spiritual fervor and military precision as the Knights of St. John International (KSJI), Benin Grand Commandery, celebrated their Special Election Inauguration Mass of Thanksgiving. The event served as both a spiritual dedication of the newly elected officers and a vibrant display of the Order’s rich traditions.

​The ceremony brought together the "crème de la crème" of the Knighthood from across the federation, marking a pivotal transition in the leadership of the Benin Grand Commandery and its Ladies Auxiliary.

​Visionary Leadership: A New Chapter Begins

​In a resonant welcome address, the Grand President of the KSJI Benin Grand Commandery, Brig. General Christian Umogbai, stood before the congregation with a heart of gratitude. Reflecting on the democratic process that brought the new executive into power, he characterized the election as a testament to the divine guidance of the Almighty.

​"Your conduct reflects the true spirit of our Order: service, discipline, and Christian charity," Brig. Gen. Umogbai remarked, praising the members for their maturity. He extended a humble plea for collective cooperation, emphasizing that the new leadership intends to work under the authority of the Holy Mother Church to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the community.

​Parallel to this, Noble Lady Patricia Obeakemeh, the Grand Respected President, stepped into her four-year mandate with a call for humility. Acknowledging the weight of her office, she stated, "Nobody knows it all," as she pledged to collaborate closely with past officers—specifically her predecessor, Noble Sister Elizabeth Omoigberale (IPGRP). She further lauded Brig. Gen. Umogbai for being a "pillar of support" to the Ladies Auxiliary, signaling a tenure defined by synergy between the men and women of the Order.

​The Homily: A Call to "Practical Christianity"

​The spiritual anchor of the day was provided by the Benin Grand Spiritual Director and Host Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Yakubu-Gowon Thomas Abdul-Salami. In a hard-hitting yet inspiring homily, he challenged the Knights and Ladies to move beyond titles and embrace their identity as the "salt of the earth."

​Fr. Abdul-Salami issued a timely warning regarding the digital age, noting:

  • ​The Spotlight of Integrity: He reminded the Knights that in the era of social media, their actions are no longer hidden. While the world might overlook the flaws of others, the expectations for a Knight are significantly higher.
  • ​Transformative Presence: He urged them to be the "light" that transforms their siblings and neighbors, stressing that religious rituals like fasting are hollow if they are not accompanied by kindness and charity.
  • ​Reviving Welfare: The Spiritual Director called for a "culture of reaching out," specifically delegating welfare visits to those who are sick, weak, or "lukewarm" in their faith.

​"Let your Christianity be practical," he charged. "Do not just bring attention to yourself; let your light shine so that it gives glory to God."

​Grandeur, Parade, and Protocol

​The event was a masterclass in organized pageantry. The high point was the Special Thanksgiving Procession, where the Knights, dressed in their full regalia, moved toward the sanctuary with a synchronized military parade that captivated the guests. This blend of liturgical reverence and military-style discipline continued into the reception, where the ceremonial cutting of the celebration cake was conducted with similar honors.

​The occasion was graced by a galaxy of eminent personalities, to include The Supreme President Maj-Gen Chucks Joachim Amamgbo ably represented by the 1st Vice Supreme president, Brig-Gen Bonaventure Ugwuja, ​Lady Azuka Nonye Okafor, Supreme Subordinate Auxiliary President (LAUX Nigeria), Noble Brig. General Dr. Chief Anthony Ihenyen, Emeritus Grand President, ​Noble Lady Elizabeth Omoigberale, Emeritus Grand Respected President, amongst others

​Looking Forward

​As the bells of St. Thomas Aquinas rang out, the message was clear: the Benin Grand Commandery is not merely entering a new administrative term, but a season of spiritual renewal. Under the protection of "Mother Mary, Ark of the Covenant," the new officers have set their sights on a fruitful tenure defined by "faith, hope, and charity."

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