. . . As St Theresa’s Parish Hosts with Igbo Cow
By Amaka Olua
The Chief shepherd of Awka Catholic Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor on Sunday, July 28, 2019, made his Pastoral visit to St Theresa’s Parish, Isuofia, Aguata L.G.A Anambra State, during which he blessed the newly renovated reverend father’s rectory and the Catholic Women’s Organisation (C.W.O)-sponsored Fountain of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, of the parish.
Speaking at the visit, during which he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation on 262 deserving Catholic faithful of the parish, Bishop Ezeokafor commended the parish priest, Rev Fr Festus Okoye and the entire parishioners for their efforts in actualizing the projects in the parish, saying that there has been a great development in the parish. He urged all not to relent in their good works and donations to the church, especially the ongoing Peter University which according to him, needed more funds to be completed.
In his homily of the concelebrated Holy Mass, Bishop Ezeokafor, who based his reflections on the readings of Sunday, tasked all on the spirit of prayers which he said was of great importance in human relationship with God. He maintained that the only way they communicate well with God was through prayers, and advised all to pray without ceasing.
Pointing out that God speaks with his children who came to him with pure heart, the Catholic prelate charged all to, patiently, pray for their spiritual growth and fulfilment of the will of God in their lives. He added that prayers said in thanksgiving would help them have more knowledge of God.
Bishop Ezeokafor commended the former Governor of Central Bank, Prof Charles Soludo for what he described as his wonderful performance during his tenure, describing him as a man of good will who had the wellbeing of others at heart. This was even as he extolled the traditional ruler of Isuofia, HRH Igwe Lt. Col. C.A.O. Muoghalu for peace and harmony in the community.
On the national issues, the Catholic prelate charged Christians to protect their faith, especially currently the Christian faith was under threat. He advised all to be at alert over the RUGA settlement, and warned traditional rulers and Presidents Generals against giving out the land of their respective communities to Fulani herdsmen.
Blessing the Fountain of Our Lady of Perpetual Help built and donated by the C.W.O of the parish, the Bishop described it as an avenue through which the parishioners would have closer relationship with the mother of God, who always interceded for her children.
In his vote of thanks, the Parish Priest, Rev Fr Festus Okoye, thanked God for his favour and care upon them, saying it was his first time as a parish priest to receive a bishop in a pastoral visit. He commended Bishop Ezeokafor for his good work in the diocese, and prayed God to sustain him. The parish priest extolled the numerous supporters of the parish for their tireless efforts.
Presentation of gifts to the bishop and various dance performances, among others, were highlights of the event which had Mr. Emeka Udoh as the chairman of the occasion.
