25/04/2026
A Joyful Milestone in the Eternal City: Rev. Cosmas Habila Ordained Deacon at St. Peter’s
VATICAN CITY — In a ceremony defined by deep faith and international solidarity, the Catholic Church welcomed a new cohort of deacons into its fold today. Among them was Rev. Cosmas Habila, a Nigerian seminarian of the Pontifical Urban College (Collegio Urbano), from the Diocese of Kafanchan, Kaduna State; who was ordained alongside 16 of his brothers at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The event marked a significant chapter in a journey that began in 2021, when Rev. Habila first arrived in Rome to pursue theological studies. Today, that journey reached a spiritual crescendo.
A Solemn Liturgy of Service
The day began at 10:00 AM (Roman time) as a grand procession moved through the historic aisles of the Basilica. The atmosphere was one of “pomp and pageantry,” yet deeply rooted in the solemnity of the occasion. The Mass, which lasted two hours, was presided over by His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Gokim Tagle, the Pro-Prefect for the Section For First Evangelization And New Particular Churches of the Dicastery for Evangelization (formerly Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples), who served as the principal ordaining prelate.
The sanctuary was filled with distinguished leaders of the Church, including:
Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Secretary of the Dicastery for Evangelization. Bishop Domenico, who joined a vast assembly of priests, deacons, and religious.
In a poignant homily, the Cardinal addressed the 17 ordinands directly, reminding them that the diaconate is, fundamentally, an office of service. He charged them to remain “open and available” to the needs of the faithful, mirroring Christ who came not to be served, but to serve.
A Global Celebration
The congregation reflected the truly “universal” nature of the Church. Pilgrims and well-wishers traveled from across the globe—from Africa to Asia—to witness the laying on of hands. The vibrant colors of traditional attire mingled with clerical vestments, creating a tapestry of global unity.
From the Basilica to the Collegio Urbano
Following the liturgy, the celebration took on a distinctly communal and joyous tone. Rev. Cosmas Habila was accompanied from St Peter’s by a jubilant crowd, comprised largely of the Nigerian clergy, religious, and fellow seminarians living in Rome.
The group made its way back to the Pontifical Urban College, filling the Roman streets with traditional songs of praise and thanksgiving. At the college, the solemnity of the morning gave way to a heartfelt reception.
A Taste of Home in Rome
The reception was a vibrant tribute to Rev. Habila’s roots. Guests were treated to an array of authentic Nigerian delicacies, specially prepared to mark the occasion. While the refreshment was described as “light,” the spirit of the gathering was immense.
The afternoon was filled with:
Musical tributes and communal singing.
The exchange of gifts and fraternal pleasantries.
Shared testimonies of Rev. Habila’s dedication during his years of study.
A Mission Begins
As the Roman sun began to set around 4:30 PM, the festivities concluded, and guests departed for their various destinations. For Rev. Cosmas Habila, however, the day was not just an end to his time as a seminarian, but a beginning.
Now clothed in the dalmatic of a deacon, he stands ready to serve the Church with the same fervor that carried him from Nigeria to the heart of the Eternal City.
“I have come among you as one who serves.” — The guiding spirit of the day’s ordination.
Fr Felix Jamchor Martins
(Reporting from the Vatican City)
