*Prelate blesses new crucifix, charges faithful to embrace responsible citizenship and devoted worship
By Akuma Ebere
It was a day of jubilation and thanksgiving at St. Mary, Mother of God Catholic Church, Akwaihedi, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Sunday, as the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, dedicated the newly completed church edifice to God.
The dedication, which formed the high point of a special Mass celebrated by Bishop Okoye, also featured the blessing of a new crucifix, a special outing dance by the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), presentation of awards and gifts to the Bishop.
In his homily, Bishop Okoye charged the faithful to be responsible citizens and committed Christians, saying the dedication of the church had placed a greater responsibility on them to live exemplary lives.
He urged parishioners to see the sacred edifice not merely as a physical structure, but as a centre for worship, evangelisation and the propagation of the Gospel.
The Bishop reminded them that dedicating the church to God should inspire them to deepen their faith and ensure that their conduct outside the church reflected the teachings of Christ.
In a welcome address after the Mass, leaders of the Catholic community commended Bishop Okoye for his pastoral visit and dedication of the church, describing his presence as a significant boost to their faith.
They also expressed appreciation to the prelate for his spiritual and material support to the parish over the years.
Responding, Bishop Okoye commended the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Peter Igwe, and members of the Catholic community for their sacrifices, commitment and efforts toward the growth of the parish and propagation of the Gospel.
Fr. Igwe, in his remarks, thanked the Bishop for making out time to visit and dedicate the church, while also appreciating parishioners for their unwavering support.
He urged them to remain steadfast in the service of God despite challenges, assuring them that their sacrifices would ultimately yield joy and fulfilment.
The Vice Chairman of the Parish Council, Mr. Fidelis Okonkwo, and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Chief Uche James Umelochukwu (Ogbuwarauzo Akwaihedi), expressed delight over the successful dedication.
They praised Bishop Okoye for his fatherly leadership and pastoral support, urging parishioners to renew their commitment to the work of God now that the church had been formally dedicated.
Several parishioners, including Chief Cyril Eze, Onwa Akwaihedi; Sir C.J. Ugonwa; Sir Vincent Ojukwu; and Prince Gabriel Okwuchukwu, described the occasion as a moment of immense joy.
They also commended Fr. Igwe, whom they described as a transformational parish priest whose leadership had brought remarkable development to the church.
The ceremony attracted priests, religious, traditional rulers, leaders of various church societies, parishioners and other dignitaries from within and outside Nnewi South Local Government Area.
Tags: #NnewiDiocese #CatholicChurch #Akwaihedi #BishopOkoye
