By Nna Anulumadu
The Archbishop of Onitsha His Grace Most Rev Valerian Okeke has engined christians to be reformers like St Charles Borromeo.
The Prelate gave the advice while preaching a sermon at St Charles College Onitsha on Saturday, November 9th, 2024.
He shed light on the remarkable life and times of St Charles Borromeo, hailing him as a trailblazing reformer who transformed the Church.
“St Charles Borromeo was a shining example of dedication, humility, and zeal for the Lord,” Archbishop Okeke said. “His unwavering commitment to reforming the Church helped shape the course of Catholic history.”
According to him, St Charles Borromeo was an Italian bishop who played a pivotal role in the Counter-Reformation. Archbishop Okeke highlighted his notable achievements which included establishment of seminaries for priestly formation, establishment of hospitals, promotion of Catholic education, advocacy for clergy reform and discipline, tireless service to the poor and marginalized, adding that he was the person that introduced Sunday evening classes in the church.
The prelate encouraged the faithful to emulate St Charles Borromeo’s exemplary lifestyle, characterized by unwavering faith and devotion, unrelenting pursuit of holiness, selfless service to others, courage in the face of adversity, passion for spiritual renewal.
“St Charles Borromeo’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of our own call to reform and renewal,” he emphasized. “May his example inspire us to live out our faith with integrity, compassion, and zeal.”
As the patron saint of St Charles College Onitsha, St Charles Borromeo’s influence continues to shape the lives of students, faculty, and staff.
“Let us draw strength from St Charles Borromeo’s remarkable life and strive to become agents of positive change in our own communities. Never allow a system to decay in your own time, rather improve it and transfom it, ” Archbishop Okeke concluded.
