By Ifeyinwa Ogwo
The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, at Mater Christi Centre in Amawbia, organised a heartfelt farewell with gratitude and celebration for Rev. Fr. Dominic Anyalagbuna, who served faithfully for a year and is now departing for further studies abroad. The event took place on Pentecost Sunday, May 24.
During his homily, Fr. Anyalagbuna highlighted that Pentecost Sunday is a special church celebration that marks the birth of the church and the descent of the Holy Spirit on humanity. “The Holy Spirit is our paraclete, comforter, and intercessor. It guides us in understanding ourselves and our distance from God.”
He elaborated that the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit—Wisdom, Knowledge, Understanding, Piety, Counsel, Fortitude, and Fear of the Lord—enable us to have faith, resilience, clarity about what matters most, recognition of God’s plan, love and respect for God, a divine perspective, and a desire to avoid offending Him. He urged everyone to ask the Holy Spirit for intercession and unity with God.
During the celebration, Fr. Anyalagbuna expressed his gratitude to the Sisters for organising such a grand farewell. “I am overwhelmed by this ceremony and display of love because I usually do not celebrate my birthdays or like to be celebrated. I am very thankful for the opportunity to serve your centre, and I pray for God’s blessings on all of you,” he stated.
In her farewell speech, Sr. Mary Lucella Ukaegbu IHM, the administrator of Mater Christi Centre, expressed appreciation to Fr. Anyalagbuna for his dedicated service over the past year. She highlighted that his homilies provided crucial guidance and encouragement, strengthening listeners and inspiring them to embody Christ’s love in daily life. “Father Dominic came to Amawbia almost a year ago, and despite the short time, he made a lasting impact.
“Beyond the pulpit, he showed a true commitment to service, and he is present where he was most needed. He listened patiently, prayed earnestly, and acted kindly. His pastoral care reminded us that ministry is personal, consistent, and sacrificial,” she remarked.
She also prayed for God to grant Fr. Anyalagbuna new grace in his studies, along with good health, success, and happiness.
The event featured musical performances by the teachers and students from Mater Christi Academy of Sacred Music; cultural dances, drama and solo acts by the Scholastics, and a recorder musical presentation.
Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
