By Nonye Muo
The Parish Priest of Annunciation Catholic Parish, Awka Diocese, Rev. Fr. Raphael Onyeka Agbanu, has called on Christians to practise genuine love in their relationships, stressing that hatred, jealousy, violence and cruelty have no place in a life guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ.
He made the call during the Sunday Mass on October 25 at Annunciation Catholic Parish, Awka, where he reflected on the significance of love as the foundation of Christian living and peaceful coexistence.
The priest expressed concern over relationships in which people profess deep affection for years but fail to sustain their commitment after marriage. He questioned the authenticity of such love, particularly where couples resort to divorce shortly after their wedding.
According to him, true love demands patience, understanding, sacrifice, commitment and mutual respect, especially when couples face difficulties. He maintained that love should be demonstrated through actions rather than mere words.
Rev. Fr. Agbanu also condemned the abuse of domestic workers, recounting the case of a woman who allegedly tortured her house help with a hot item, leaving the victim with burn scars. He described such treatment as a violation of the dignity and welfare of another human being.
He further cited the killing of a young woman by a man who had previously professed love for her, noting that violence against a person one claims to love contradicts the true meaning of love.
The priest urged Christians to overcome envy and celebrate the achievements of others, explaining that genuine love promotes peace, compassion and mutual support rather than resentment over another person’s progress.
Explaining the biblical basis of his message, Fr. Agbanu said that the first four of the Ten Commandments concern humanity’s relationship with God, while the remaining six guide interactions among human beings. He emphasised that love remains central to the commandments and the teachings of Christ.
He referred to Matthew 22:36–40, where Jesus Christ identified love for God with all one’s heart, soul and mind, and love for one’s neighbour as oneself, as the greatest commandments.
The priest also drew attention to 2 Timothy 3:1–5, which describes the negative attitudes expected among people in the last days, including selfishness, greed, pride, ingratitude and a lack of natural affection. He warned that such attitudes weaken family bonds and undermine harmonious relationships in society.
He therefore encouraged members of the congregation to make love evident in their daily dealings through kindness, forgiveness, respect, compassion and concern for the welfare of others.
The Mass also featured the celebration of parishioners born in October. Among them was the former National Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Damian Okeke Ogene.
As part of the celebrations, Chief Ogene made a donation to the church, contributing to the support of the parish community. The Parish Priest congratulated the October-born celebrants and expressed appreciation for their gifts and generosity.
Nonye Muo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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