By Akuma Ebere
The Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Jonas Benson Okoye, has administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 136 candidates during a pastoral visit to Immaculate Heart Catholic Parish, Ihiala.
The event, which featured a Holy Mass, was attended by the Traditional Ruler of Ihiala, HRH Igwe Thanos Obidiegwu, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Barr. Vin Ezeaka, and other dignitaries.
In a welcome address, the parish thanked the Bishop for his visit and for posting Rev. Fr. Luke Nworah as Parish Priest, noting the positive spiritual and physical growth recorded under his leadership.
The parish also appealed for diocesan support to address challenges, including inadequate funding for school approval, lack of toilet facilities, a parish hall and office, as well as declining membership.
Bishop Okoye commended the parishioners for their commitment to the Church and urged the newly confirmed candidates to remain faithful to God. He also encouraged the parish to continue praying for the clergy.
Rev. Fr. Luke Nworah thanked the Bishop for the visit and prayed that the candidates would grow into responsible and faithful Christians.
Barr. Vin Ezeaka praised the Bishop’s pastoral dedication and pledged support for youth-focused programmes, expressing hope that such initiatives would help steer young people away from cultism and other social vices.
Tags: Catholic Church, Nnewi Diocese, Ihiala, Confirmation, Jonas Benson Okoye
