By Daruwana Daku
In valuing the aged and helping grow the welfare and support programme of the Church on old priests, the Savio Bosco Old Boys Association (SABOBA), Lagos Branch, December 30, 2023, paid a visit to the priests of the welfare home for Awka and Ekwulobia Catholic Dioceses in Awka, Anambra State.
The visit which is part of the tradition of the branch at every festive season, reaches out to charity homes and aged persons and had in attendance members of SABOBA and priests of the welfare home who were visibly happy to welcome them.
While receiving the branch into the priests’ welfare home, one of the priests, Msgr. Simeon Amateze thanked the old minor seminarians for finding it very thoughtful to visit them, especially in their old age, noting that the seminary lifestyle never left one, even after one left the seminary.
Recognizing the state of the country’s economy, Msgr Amateze commended the old boys for what he called their homework, in providing them with valuable items.
For pulling out their hard-earned resources to help the old priests, Msgr. Amateze also prayed for their longevity and that of their family members and children.
For his part, the chairman of SABOBA, Lagos Branch, Barr. Mayor Asiegbu noted that it was the second time they were visiting the priests’ welfare home as it was part of their tradition.
While also appreciating the good work of the director of the welfare home, Rev. Fr Emmanuel Udoh, the chairman, expressed satisfaction in the way the old priests were taken care of, noting that it was not an easy task to take care of the old.
Part of the members of SABOBA who came company of the chairman included Mr Sunny Eche; Sir Charles Ilohaglu; Dr. Dominic Nwankwor; Mr. Chris Obinna; and Mr. Orlando Okeke.
Fides gathered that part of the items the body came with included toiletries, beverages, and cash.
The items were received in the presence of Frs. Clement Onyemelekwe, Johnson Orjiakor, Ernest Nwankwo, Francis Ekejindu, Simeon-Peter Azuka, Clement Obianozie, and Clement Uzoezie.
Also present were Msgrs. Simeon Amateze and Basil Nwazojie.
Highlights of the visit included prayers and group photographs.
