By Jude Atupulazi
It was a momentous occasion, Sunday, September 8, as the Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial Zone, Sir Victor Umeh, handed over a Marian Grotto he built to the Onitsha Regional House of Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy (DMMM) Congregation Obosi, Anambra State, with the Catholic Arch Bishop of Onitsha, Arch Diocese, His Grace, Most Rev Valerian Okeke, commending Umeh for the gesture.
Speaking at the blessing of the Grotto, which coincided with the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Senator Umeh stated that the Grotto donation was a way of showing gratitude to the Blessed Mother Mary for her maternal intercession to her Son and the Lord Jesus Christ towards him and his family.
He described the occasion as a day of thanksgiving, noting that the best way he could appreciate the Blessed Virgin Mary for Her love and kindness to him and his family was to build a Marian Grotto as requested by the Onitsha Regional Superior of DMMM – Rev. Sr. Mary JanePatrick Okolie.
Earlier in his homily during the Mass, the Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, commended Senator Umeh for always acknowledging the grace of God in his life.
The Prelate, who later blessed the Grotto, stated that Sen. Umeh had continued to use God’s blessings on him to put smiles on people’s faces. He thanked Sen. Umeh for his generosity and support to the Church and asked the faithful to use the Grotto to renew their faith and to draw closer to Christ in prayer.
In appreciation, Rev. Sr. Mary JanePatrick Okoli, on behalf of the Congregation, presented some gifts to Senator Umeh and assured him of their continuous prayers for him and his family.
The highlights of the event were the blessing of the Grotto, cutting of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s Birthday Cakes, group photographs and cultural dances.