By Nkiru Anakor
St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Green Gate Estate, Nkwele-Ezunka, was filled with faith, joy and thanksgiving as the Bishop of Aguleri Diocese, Most Rev. Denis Chidi Isizoh, undertook a pastoral visit to the parish.
The pastoral visit featured the celebration of Holy Mass, the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation to 306 candidates, and the solemn blessing and dedication of the newly constructed Chapel of Perpetual Adoration.
During the Holy Mass on Sept. 6, Bishop Isizoh explained that pastoral visits provide bishops with opportunities to nurture, strengthen and accompany the faithful entrusted to their pastoral care.
In his homily, the Bishop urged the faithful to remain committed to the two fundamental commandments of love: love of God and love of neighbour.
He reminded the congregation that genuine love for God must be reflected in the way christians relate with one another. “You cannot claim to love God whom you do not see, if you do not love your neighbour whom you see,” he said.
Addressing the 306 newly confirmed candidates, Bishop Isizoh encouraged them to rely on the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit as they continue to grow in their christian faith. He reminded them that the power of God dwelling within them is greater than every other power in the world. “The Spirit of God in you is greater than any power in the world,” the Bishop admonished.
The Bishop also commended the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. David Ozoemena, members of the Parish Pastoral Council and the entire parishioners for their commitment, sacrifices and dedication to the growth and development of the parish.
He expressed appreciation to the benefactors for their generosity and selfless contribution to the spiritual growth of the parish. He prayed that God would continue to bless and reward the family for their support towards the work of evangelisation and the growth of the Catholic faith.
A major highlight of the pastoral visit was the solemn blessing of the newly constructed Chapel of Perpetual Adoration. The chapel was single-handedly constructed and donated to the Church by Mr. and Mrs. Edwin and Ngozi Ikwunemelu and their family.
Nkiru Anakor is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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