By Daruwana Daku and Chinonso Samson
It was a joyous moment and celebration of a befitting life at Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, as Sir Alphonsus Anamalu Anazodo celebrated his 90th Birthday with aplomb.
The celebration which began with a Thanksgiving Mass at his home parish, St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, was greeted with the presence of priests and religious from the Diocese of Awka, as well as his children, grand and great grandchildren and members of Knights of St John International.
While delivering his homily, Rev. Fr Alfred Anazodo reminisced on the early days of Anazodo whom he described as an honest, transparent and disciplined man that displayed piety to the things of God and the Church.
While noting his cerebral attribute, Fr Anazodo maintained that the celebrant in his years as teacher and principal lived an exemplary life befitting a Christian leader. This was even as he added that his doggedeness and love for the right things to be done were manifested in his days as a secretary of the Nigerian Union of Teachers.
The celebrant who through his vote of thanks expressed gratitude to God Almighty for blessing him with a long life, also thanked priests who came out to celebrate with him.
Speaking also on behalf of the family, the second daughter of the celebrant, Mrs Ugonwa Offoeki, thanked the priests and the entire congregation for celebrating with the family, even as she appreciated the efforts of their parish, St. Theresa’s Parish, Agulu, by supporting the church with a cash donation of N200, 000.
Highlights of the events included Papal Blessing from Pope Francis, song presentation by his grandchildren and cutting of Birthday Cake.
