By Nonye Muo
Christians have been reminded that every human being created by God has a divine purpose to fulfill on earth.
The reminder was given by Rev. Fr. Chibuzor Okeke during his homily at the burial Mass of late Lady Mrs. Cecilia Ugoye Luke Okafor, mother of Lt. Colonel Cyril Okafor, held at St. Edward Catholic Church Eziowelle.
In his sermon, Fr. Okeke emphasized the need for Christians to understand the reason for their existence, stressing that life is a journey with eternal significance.
Quoting the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the cleric said God created mankind to know Him, love Him, serve Him, and live happily with Him forever in eternity.
According to him, life on earth is temporary and should be lived with the consciousness that everyone would one day give account of his or her stewardship before God.
“We are in this world for a purpose,” he said, adding that death serves as a reminder for people to live rightly and prepare for eternity.
Fr. Okeke likened life to a school where examinations must be passed before promotion can be attained, explaining that just as students study hard to succeed in examinations, human beings must strive to live upright lives in order to inherit eternal life.
The priest urged the congregation to leave behind positive legacies that would continue to speak for them after death.
“One day, everybody’s turn will come to leave this world. What will remain after death is the legacy you leave behind,” he said, noting that although Lady Okafor had passed on, her good works and impact would continue to be remembered.
Using examples from family life, Fr. Okeke encouraged people to always stand for truth and peace, even when such actions attract criticism.
“If making peace and speaking the truth will make you have enemies on earth, do not be afraid. It is better to stand for truth and make heaven,” he added.
Earlier in his remarks, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Thadeus Eya, welcomed priests, parishioners, family members, and sympathizers who gathered for the funeral Mass.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lt. Colonel Cyril Okafor expressed gratitude to all who attended the burial and supported the family with prayers and encouragement during their period of mourning.
Other priests who officiated at the Mass included Rev. Fr. Samuel Chibuzor, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Amobi, and Rev. Fr. Anene.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Owelle of Eziowelle, Igwe Michael Etusi, Chief Dr. Bob Francis Nzekwesi, and Barr. Akpudo, popularly known as Ichaka Eziowelle.
Muo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
