By Akuma Ebere
Catholic faithful from across Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, weekend, gathered in large numbers to welcome the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, during a pastoral visit to St Peter Claver’s Parish, Otolo.
In a warm address of welcome read by Mrs. Ngozi Anamasonye, secretary of the Pastoral Council, parishioners commended Bishop Okoye for his impactful developmental initiatives within the diocese. They prayed fervently for God’s continued guidance and wisdom as he shepherds the diocese. The parishioners also voiced concerns over the waning faith among youths, especially the challenge of serving “two masters” God and false idols.
After a solemn mass officiated by the Bishop, the parish priest, Very Rev. Fr. Gregory Ibeh, expressed profound gratitude to God for the successful visit. He lauded Bishop Okoye’s dedication and special affection for St Peter Claver’s Parish, explaining that the visit was aimed at renewing and strengthening the faith of parishioners. He emphasized that pastoral visits bring transformation and thanked the Bishop for administering the Sacrament of Confirmation to over 387 candidates.
Fr. Ibeh praised the parishioners’ cooperation and commitment to God’s work.
Mr. Emeka Okoye (Banjiba Nnewi), president of the parish’s Christian Men Organization (CMO), described the parish priest as a blessing to humanity and expressed optimism that the Bishop’s visit would spur further development in the parish. He urged the newly confirmed youths to remain focused, eschew rituals and reject the lure of quick money.
The event’s climax was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation to the 387 candidates by Bishop Okoye, followed by cultural displays and homage paid to the Bishop.
