By Obianuju Azukaego
Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Nkwelle-Ezunaka, led by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Josephat Mario Madubuonwu, on August 30, welcomed the Bishop of Aguleri Diocese, Most Rev. Denis Chidi Isizoh with joy and thanksgiving as part of the activities marking his pastoral visit.
Celebrating Holy Mass at the parish, Bishop Isizoh, in his homily from the Gospel of Matthew 16:21-27, reminded the faithful that the cross and suffering are essential aspects of the Christian life.
Reflecting on Christ’s rebuke of Peter, the Bishop urged Christians not to regard suffering and sacrifice as a curse, but to accept them as part of their journey of faith.
He encouraged the faithful to reject any teaching or influence that ought to make them abandon the Christian understanding of the cross.
Addressing the challenges confronting Nigeria, Bishop Isizoh stressed that every citizen had a role to play in the building a better society.
He particularly called on Christians and other citizens to take their civic responsibilities seriously by obtaining their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) and participating actively in elections.
The Bishop urged the faithful to use their votes wisely and elect leaders committed to the development and wellbeing of the nation.
He also emphasized the importance of investing in children and young people, describing their proper education and skills development as essential for the future of the society.
He advised the people not to take political aspirants seriously if they had no clear plans for children, schools and skill-acquisition centres.
Speaking on the significance of his pastoral visit, Bishop Isizoh identified its three major purposes as inspection, appreciation and empowerment.
He further encouraged parents to ensure that their children acquired practical skills and learnt various forms of handwork, particularly in view of the prevailing economic realities.
According to him, such skills would help young people become self-reliant rather than depend solely on salaried employment.
A major highlight of the celebration was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation on 209 candidates in the parish.
The Bishop charged the newly confirmed Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith and to become courageous witnesses of Christ in their families, communities and society.
Following the Holy Mass, Bishop Isizoh joined parishioners at the reception ground, where he was entertained and presented with gifts by the parish community.
The Bishop, alongside priests and parishioners, later proceeded to the parish’s new chapel, where he blessed the chapel and led the faithful in Benediction.
Obianuju Azukaego is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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