By Sir Winifred Chidimma Ikwugbado
It was a moment of faith and pride at St Andrew’s Catholic Church Adazi-Nnukwu, as the Catholic Diocese of Awka organized a grand celebration in honour of old boys, past chaplains, patrons and all who have contributed and still contributing to the growth of the Altar Servers Association in the Diocese.
The event had in attendance the Diocesan Bishop, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor; His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, Governor of Anambra State, who was represented by the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike; Chief Dozie Nwankwo (Onyendozi), represented by the Mayor of Anocha, Honourable Romanus Ibekwe
Other dignitaries present included the Diocesan Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Ndubisi; and the Episcopal Vicar of Adazi Region, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Anike; the Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Okechukwu Chukwuemeka; as well as priests; religious; parishioners; and altar servers from various parishes in the diocese
The celebration began with a solemn Mass presided over by Bishop Ezeokafor. In his homily, the Bishop commended the altar servers for their commitment to service at the altar. He described them as “the right hand of the priest” and urged them to continue to live exemplary lives of prayer, discipline and holiness as most people who are priests today started their journey as altar servers.
Representing the Governor, Dr. Obidike conveyed Prof. Charles Soludo’s goodwill message and applauded the Catholic Church for its contributions to youth formation and moral development in Anambra State. He assured the Church of the state government’s continued support for programs that promote peace and community values.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to the diocesan bishop, the governor who happens to be one of the old boys, the diocesan chancellor Fr. Ndubisi and the diocesan financial administrator Fr. Paulinus Okonkwo also received awards for selfless service to the Altar Servers Association .Many other dignitaries also received different awards.
Other activities to spice up the occasion include cultural displays, dramas and dances by various parishes
In his vote of thanks the Diocesan Chaplain of Altar Servers Association, Rev Fr Christian Ezulike, thanked the Bishop for his fatherly love and continued support and especially for making out time to be personally present to celebrate with the altar servers. He appreciated the Governor for his interest in the altar servers and for always identifying with them. He also thanked all the priests and religious present for honoring the invitation. He said their presence would inspire the altar servers to serve God with greater dedication.
The celebration ended with prayers for the government, the Diocese, and all the parishes.
