By Nkiru Anakor
Hundreds of Catholic faithful gathered at St. Paul Catholic Church, Ekwulobia, on July 19 to receive the Bishop of the Diocese, His Eminence, Cardinal Peter Okpaleke, during his maiden pastoral visit to the parish.
The visit was a memorable occasion for the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Paschal Uche Okeke, and the entire parish community, as 472 candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation, publicly affirming their commitment to the Catholic faith.
In his homily, Cardinal Okpaleke reminded the newly confirmed candidates that the Sacrament of Confirmation marks the beginning of a deeper commitment to Christian living rather than the end of their faith journey.
He urged them to remain steadfast in their faith by avoiding negative influences, including cultism, drug abuse and internet fraud. The Cardinal also encouraged them to honour their parents, participate actively in the life of the Church, and serve as positive role models for their peers.
He emphasised that both the Church and society depend on young people who are prayerful, disciplined and faithful, warning the candidates not to allow the pressures and distractions of modern society to lead them away from Christ.
Addressing parents and guardians, Cardinal Okpaleke stressed the importance of providing continuous spiritual guidance through prayer, exemplary living and encouragement. He noted that the family remains the primary school of faith and plays a vital role in raising responsible and committed Christians.
The Cardinal further encouraged all the faithful to strive to be “wheat and not darnel,” urging them to make meaningful contributions to the spiritual growth, unity and development of the parish community.
Nkiru Anakor is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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