By Hosea Parah, Abuja
In preparation for the highly anticipated 2023 Main Pilgrimage exercise to Rome and Greece, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam, recently led a delegation of State Pilgrimage Leaders and Managers to a strategic meeting with Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi, a prominent tour operator in Vatican.
During the meeting, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam emphasized that prayer is the most crucial aspect of the preparation for the upcoming pilgrimage. He stated that regardless of the arrangements made for a successful pilgrimage outing, without prayer, their efforts would not yield the desired results.
Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam urged the Pilgrimage Leaders and Managers to understand that prayer is the key factor that will make a difference in the outcome of the pilgrimage to Rome and Greece. He further emphasized that the successful execution of this pilgrimage would open up new experiences and opportunities for future pilgrimages.
Expressing his appreciation for the tour company’s long history of organizing pilgrimages in Rome and Vatican, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam highlighted that the Pilgrimage Leaders represented the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards from 36 states in Nigeria. He reminded the attendees that the NCPC Act empowered the Commission to coordinate and supervise Christian pilgrimage activities in Nigeria.
The NCPC boss discussed the need for a well-planned and organized pilgrimage and requested the tour company’s assistance in securing visas for the participants. He also urged them to ensure reliable transportation, quality accommodation, and adequate meals during the pilgrimage.
Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam concluded by seeking assurance from the tour company that they would be able to meet these requirements and contribute to the success of the pilgrimage.
The Chairman of Conference of States, Rev. Isaiah Magaji, echoed Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam’s sentiments and encouraged his colleagues to cooperate with the NCPC to ensure the success of the forthcoming Rome and Greece Pilgrimage exercise. He expressed gratitude to the officials of the tour company for their warm reception and assured them of a mutually beneficial relationship.
The 2023 Main Pilgrimage exercise to Rome and Greece is eagerly anticipated by the Nigerian Christian community, with hopes for a spiritually enriching and transformative experience. With prayer as the focal point of the preparation, the NCPC aims to create a pilgrimage that will leave a lasting impact on the participants’ spiritual journey.