St. Luke’s Parish, Wilberforce Barracks celebrated its annual Feast Day on the 19th of October 2025, a day filled with faith, and reflection. The celebration, which drew parishioners and dignitaries from across the Archdiocese , was held in honor of St. Luke the Evangelist, one of the four Gospel writers in the New Testament and the patron saint of physicians, artists, and those who bring healing to others. St. Luke, known for his compassion and kindness, lived a life dedicated to service. As a physician and a companion of St. Paul, he used his skills to care for the sick and the needy. His Gospel writings reflect his deep concern for the poor, the widows, and the marginalized, emphasizing mercy, healing, and hope.
Rev. Fr Lajen George, (Parish Priest) delivered his homily in three segments: First, he spoke about the life of St. Luke, reminding the faithful of his mission and service to humanity. Fr George described St. Luke as a man who devoted his life to uplifting those in distress widows, orphans, and the sick by offering both medical and spiritual care. He urged parishioners to emulate the saint’s virtues of compassion, and humility, saying that the life St. Luke lived was one worth imitating.
He also reflected on the significance of Mission Sunday, which coincided with the Feast Day celebration. He explained that Mission Sunday is observed globally to support the Pontifical Missionary Societies organizations established by the Church to coordinate missionary activities around the world. Quoting from the Pope’s message, he highlighted this year’s theme, “Missionaries of Hope among all Peoples” and encouraged the faithful to bring hope to others in every possible way, reminding that hope is not only given through material support but also through acts of kindness, encouragement, and love that lift others from despair.
In a world challenged by unemployment, insecurity, and rising costs of living, Fr George acknowledged the struggles that often make people lose faith. Yet, he urged Christians never to give up but to remain steadfast in prayer and trust in God’s providence. Drawing from the Sunday readings, he emphasized perseverance and constancy in prayer, calling on the faithful to stay firm in their faith despite life’s trials.
To illustrate this, he used the example of Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, who faced countless failures before achieving success. Fr George likened Edison’s persistence to the perseverance Christians need in their spiritual journey, reminding the congregation that success and divine answers come through patience and unwavering faith.