By Tobias Ekirika, Onitsha
Catholic faithful at SS John & Paul Parish, Iba Pope Awada, joined others worldwide on May 3 to mark the 2026 Fathering Sunday, a day dedicated to celebrating fathers and their roles in families and the Church.
Delivering his homily, the resident priest, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Okoye, charged fathers to embrace visionary leadership within their homes. He emphasized the need for fathers to plan, guide, and shape the future of their families, noting that proper upbringing rooted in faith could help curb rising youth crime.
“Fathers are pillars, providers, and decision-makers. When they lead and train their children well, society becomes better,” he said, urging families to honor and respect fathers.
The event also featured the 40th anniversary of the Catholic Men Organization (CMO) in the parish, coinciding with Good Shepherd Sunday. A visiting priest from Nnewi Diocese, Rev. Fr. Kenneth, advised men to prioritize family responsibilities over excessive phone use, warning that neglect contributes to poor upbringing and social vices among youths.
Parish priest and CMO chaplain, Rev. Fr. Dr. Aloysius Maduka Agba (Omereoha), described the group’s 40 years as impactful and urged members to remain steadfast in prayer and service.
Also speaking, the Director of Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, Very Rev. Dr. George Adimike, highlighted the critical role of fathers as caregivers and guides, stressing that their absence or weakness often leads to child misbehavior.
The celebration featured award presentations, including the recognition of Chief Hon. Valentine Ozigbo as Grand Patron of the parish CMO.
Tags:
Fathering Sunday, Catholic Church, Onitsha, Anambra News, Family Leadership, Parenting, Catholic Men Organization, Youth Development, Religion, Nigeria News
