By Charles Igwe
The 53rd Convocation Ceremony of Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu was a moment of great joy and celebration as the institution once again upheld its legacy of academic distinction. The event, which brought together clergy, religious, and lay faithful, was marked by a deep sense of gratitude to God and recognition of the hard work and dedication of the graduating class.
The ceremony commenced with the Holy Mass, presided over by the Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Chukwu. In his homily, Bishop Chukwu reminded the graduands that their academic success was not an end in itself but a preparation for greater responsibility in the Church and society. He urged them to use their formation to be beacons of truth and integrity in a world that often prioritizes personal gain over service. He also emphasized that intellectual growth must be accompanied by moral responsibility, urging them to remain steadfast in their calling amidst the challenges of contemporary society.
Among the highlights of the convocation was the conferment of degrees on the graduands, with special recognition given to those who excelled academically. The Archdiocese of Onitsha had a particularly strong presence, as two of its seminarians, Mr. LouisMary Dunu and Mr. Francis Ugwu, achieved the highest academic honour, Summa Cum Laude, in Philosophy from Pontifical Urbaniana University, Rome.
In his address, the Rector of Bigard Memorial Seminary, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Albert Ikpenwa, reminded the graduands of the responsibility that comes with their education. He lamented how society today “downplays the need for responsibility, intellectual growth, and moral decency,” warning that they would face a world that often confuses freedom with unbridled choice, love with lust, and growth with mere progress. However, he encouraged them to embrace their formation as a call to service, urging them to be solid witnesses to the Gospel through a life of discipline, charity, and obedience.
The convocation ceremony was graced by numerous clergy, seminary formators, and families of the graduands, who gathered to celebrate their loved ones’ achievements. The atmosphere was one of joy and thanksgiving, as the new graduates looked forward to their next phase of formation, prepared to take on the challenges ahead with renewed strength and commitment.
With yet another successful convocation, Bigard Memorial Seminary continues to affirm its reputation as a premier institution for the formation of men of intellect, character and commitment to the Church’s mission.
