By Osegbue Patricia
The Resident Priest of St. Mary’s Catholic Parish, Inland Town, Onitsha, Rev. Fr. Jude Nworah, has urged mothers to uphold Christian values and serve as worthy role models for their children and society.
Nworah made the call on August 1, during the First Saturday devotion, a monthly Catholic observance in which mothers offer thanksgiving to God and honour the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God.
In his homily, the priest expressed concern over what he described as the declining commitment of some mothers to their responsibilities in the home.
He urged them to return to their families and faithfully discharge their duties, stressing that Christian virtues should be evident in their daily lives.
“Live out the Christianity in you at all times so that your children will follow your footsteps,” he said.
Nworah also noted that the Church commemorated the feast of St. Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, who was renowned for his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Quoting the saint, he said: “Whoever desires the fruit must go to the tree; whoever desires Jesus must go to Mary; and whoever finds Mary will most certainly find Jesus.”
According to him, the First Saturday devotion offers the faithful, particularly mothers and members of Marian societies, an opportunity to reflect on the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and renew their commitment to Christian living.
The celebration featured special prayers for mothers, who processed to the altar with thanksgiving offerings amid hymns and joyful dancing.
Osegbue Patricia is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State*
