By Daruwana Daku and Ebube Edieh
Last Sunday, the Catholic Community of Neni in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, welcomed the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most. Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, as the prelate dedicated St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Neni.
The dedication which came as part of a successful completion of the church, the hall, chapel and belfry, was witnessed by priests, among whom were the Chancellor of the Diocese, Fr. Charles Ndubisi; serving parish priests in Neni; religious and parishioners.
Bishop Ezeokafor in his remarks to the parish, thanked God for the life of the parish and how they had witnessed consistent growth since her creation in 2000.
The Bishop who enlightened the parishioners on the significance of church dedication, also appreciated what he described as the philanthropic acumen shown by parishioners in getting the church dedicated to God. He however cautioned that the church should have a maintenance culture, so as to always keep the structure of the church and its paraphernalia intact.
While the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Christopher Aniukuw, could not conceal his joy over the successful dedication of the church, he however, said the dedication of the church came with its challenges, even as he expressed gratitude to God and the entire parishioners for making it a success.
The epoch making ceremony which was chaired by Sir. Eugene Nwankwo had among the dignitaries, HRH, Igwe Damian Ezeani and the Chairman of Anaocha Local Government, Chief Romo Ibekwe.
Fides gathered that St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Neni, before its creation in the year 2000, started as an outstation under St. John’s Catholic Parish, Neni.
The creation of the parish was nurtured by Rev. Fr Fabian Obi who was the Parish Priest of St. John’s Parish, Neni, at the time.
With the approval of His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Simon Okafor, the parish housed Rev. Fr Emmanuel Okpalauwaekwe as her first Parish Priest on April 1, 2000.
The church has received significant growth, both spiritual and physical, and has had over 10 priests that have worked within.
Highlights of the event included: dedication and blessing of the tower, presentation of awards, planting of tree, dance rendition and group photographs.
