By Alexander Johnson Adejoh and Samson Chinonso
The Justice, Development, and Peace Caritas (JDPC) Awka Diocese, on September 1, 2024, launched its 2024 Week with a flag-off ceremony and fundraising event at Madonna Assumpta Parish, Agulu, Anaocha LGA of Anambra State.
The event, themed, “Economic Empowerment and Capacity Strengthening for Self-Reliance and Community Reliance,” was aimed to sensitize and educate the public on the importance of empowering the poor, vulnerable and marginalized.
Rev. Fr. Levi Ndubisi Ukor, JDPC Director, outlined the Week’s objectives to include advocacy, partnership with donor agencies, youth and women empowerment, micro-credit programmes, capacity building, and promotion of social justice.
The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, represented by his Secretary, Very Rev. Fr. Evaristus Iheanacho, urged attendees to embrace a life of caring for the less privileged.
He emphasized that ‘Doing the work of Christ without putting your entire heart is a waste of time.’
Dignitaries present at the event included Mr. & Mrs Michael C. Okolibe, (Omereihedike Jnr of Akpu), Chairman of the Occasion, represented by Hon. Darlington J. Uzoezie; Chief Sir Senator Victor Umeh, Senator representing Anambra Central Constituency; Hon. P. C. Adinuba, Chairman, JDPC, Awka Diocese; Rev Frs Augustine Oguine and Emmanuel Oformata, JDPC Coordinators Adazi and Awka Regions, respectively; Lady Queen Nwogu, former JDPC Awka Diocesan Secretary; Rev. Fr. Peter Chikelue former Chaplain, JDPC Adazi Region; priests, religious other prominent figures.
The event’s highlight was fundraising for the JDPC Week, aimed at support for economic empowerment and capacity strengthening initiatives.
Other highlights of the event included cultural displays, presentation of recognition awards, and fundraising.
The cultural display showcased the rich heritage of Agulu Community, while the recognition awards honored individuals and organizations that had contributed to the JDPC’s mission.
The fundraising segment saw generous donations from attendees, setting the tone for a successful JDPC Week.
