By Ononye VC
In a joyful and colourful outing at the Bethany House,Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity Onitsha on Saturday,13th September 2025,dozens of members of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) Archdiocese of Onitsha gathered to honour their patron saint and role model,the Blessed Virgin Mary,mother of Christ on her birthday which the church celebrated annually on September 8.
The event was kick-started with a Holy Mass presided over by a co-chaplain of the CWO,Rev Fr Collins Okoye.
In his homily,Fr Okoye urged the women among others,to imbibe the spirit of humility and purity which the Blessed Virgin Mary was known for and also remain steadfast in the good works of the CWO Archdiocese of Onitsha led by their director,Dame Dr Ngozi Nwanosike.
He commended Dame Nwanosike for personifying humility, obedience and honesty in leadership of the women and urged her to continue with her good works.
The Senator representing Anambra North Senatorial Zone,Dr Tony Nwoye drew a loud ovation when he joined the celebration midway,stating that his own birthday coincided with that of the Blessed Virgin Mary and therefore was glad to join the women.
He was received warmly by the chaplain of the CWO/Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Onitsha,Rev Fr JohnBosco Okafor,Fr Collins Okoye and CWO Director,Dame Dr Nwanosike. The Executive Chairman of Anambra Universal Education Board (ASUBEB) Dr Vera Nwadinobi who was represented on the ocassion,sent her goodwill message to the celebrants.
In her brief remarks,the CWO Director Dame Dr Ngozi Nwanosike thanked all the attendees for success of the event and also,the CWO chaplains for their prayers and support.
Highlights on the event are, cultural dances, thanksgiving presentations from various regions,mock News Casting and cutting of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday cake.
