By Charles Igwe
In a moving display of gratitude and celebration, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, celebrated the New Year with a special Mass at the Enugu Old People’s Home, which is run by the dedicated Little Sisters of the Poor. The occasion, which coincided with the feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, was marked by a profound sense of blessing and the spirit of the New Year.
During the Mass, Bishop Onaga made a symbolic connection between Christ’s circumcision upon his birth and the profound blessings bestowed upon humanity. His homily, delivered with eloquence, was filled with hope for plentiful blessings in the New Year. Addressing the faithful, Bishop Onaga placed a spotlight on the importance of forgiveness as the year commenced. He encouraged everyone to release grievances from the past, emphasizing that one’s outlook shapes how the world perceives them. Stressing the power of happiness in shaping lives, he cautioned against allowing sadness to overshadow the path ahead. “Christ is the God of light, and we should allow that light to illuminate our lives,” proclaimed His Lordship. He called upon the community to pledge to be beacons of light in the midst of darkness, spreading happiness and joy to those around them.
The elderly residents of the home received special attention during the celebration. Bishop Onaga expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to welcome the New Year with them, attributing their presence to the care and support they received. He lauded the Little Sisters of the Poor for their tireless efforts in providing love and care that had sustained the elderly throughout the previous year.
The Bishop extended heartfelt appreciation to the generous benefactors who contributed to the well-being of the home, emphasizing their indispensable role in ensuring the continued existence and success of the Old People’s Home. Special recognition was given to the close parish of St. Paul’s Parish Awkunanaw, whose contributions were acknowledged with sincere gratitude. Additionally, Bishop Onaga expressed thanks to the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, acknowledging his wife’s previous visit to the home and reinforcing the sense of community and support. “This year is a year of blessings upon blessings!” declared the Bishop, encapsulating the overarching theme of hope and positivity that characterized the Thanksgiving celebration
