By Daruwana Daku and Sampson Nelson
It was a delight on Sunday, February 25, 2024, as parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Egbengwu, Nimo, in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, received the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, His lordship, Most. Rev. Paulinus Ezeokaofor, on a pastoral visit.
The Bishop whose visit orchestrated the strengthening of the faith of 220 parishioners through the Sacrament of Confirmation, was welcomed by the parish priest, Rev. Fr Innocent Muomegha
Fr Muomegha, who during the Episcopal Mass welcomed His Lordship, noted that the Bishop’s visit was important for the Church, particularly for the spiritual growth of the parish and as such, he was thankful to the Bishop, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr Charles Ndubisi, and all priests who were physically present for the event.
Bishop Ezeokafor in his homily shared his joy with the Christian Community. This was even as he centered his teaching on the Christian faith, especially as it was revealed in the life of Abraham and in the moment of transfiguration which was part of the readings.
The Catholic prelate also used the medium to speak and enlighten the lay faithful on the teachings of the Church, while noting that the misconception of the Catholic doctrines seemed to be the order of the day.
Calling on the parishioners on the need to support the Church in its growth, the prelate also commended what he described as the good work of the parish priests and parishioners like Hon. Pete Ibida and other good-spirited members of the Church for the support they were giving to the parish priest for the Church’s growth.
Fides gathered that since the assumption of office by the parish priest in 2019, the parish has experienced tremendous growth. Some of them include; changing the entrance of the church, renovation of father’s rectory, visitation of the sick and aged and installation of wall fans.
Reacting to the Church’s growth, the parish priest, while speaking with Fides Media, said that God’s grace and transparency were at work in the parish, adding that it was the contributions of his parishioners at home and in diaspora that brought the visible progress that they were seeing.
He also commended the seven zonal leaders and the financial administrators of the parish for their diligence in discharging their duties diligently and appreciated them with gifts.
Highlights of the event included gift presentations and cultural dances.
