By Nkiru Anakor
The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi has celebrated the solemn dedication of St. Mary Mother of God Parish, Akwaihedi, marking the culmination of 25 years of sacrifice, perseverance and commitment by the parish community. The dedication ceremony was presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, on Aug. 23.
In his homily, Bishop Okoye commended the parishioners for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices towards the construction and development of the church. He particularly acknowledged the major benefactors and donors whose generosity, financial contributions and personal support played significant roles in completing the project.
The Bishop reminded the faithful that a church solemnly dedicated to God is a sacred place of worship and should be treated with reverence. He urged parishioners to preserve its sanctity and refrain from using the church for ordinary social activities, meetings or functions unrelated to religious worship.
Bishop Okoye also expressed appreciation to the Senator representing Anambra South, the Mayor of Nnewi South, other government officials, dignitaries and guests for their presence and support at the ceremony. He equally acknowledged Sir Patrick Ubajaka, Vice Chairman of the Diocesan Pastoral Council, and the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Peter Igwe, for their invaluable contributions, support and presence at the historic celebration.
The ceremony also featured an honorary award presentation in recognition of individuals who had made outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the parish and the wider community.
Among those honoured was Mother Amaka Osegbo, who received the distinguished title of “Mother of Light” (Nne Ife) in recognition of her sustained support for the growth and development of the church and the wider community. Other award recipients were similarly recognised for their contributions to the parish and community.
As part of the celebration, Bishop Okoye also blessed the newly constructed Calvary Garden, a project undertaken by the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) of the parish.
Nkiru Anakor is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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