By Nna Anulumadu
Parishioners of Immaculate Heart parish Fegge, Onitsha last Sunday July 26, rolled out their drums in honour of the Chief Shepherd His Grace Most Rev Valerian Okeke who paid a one day pastoral visit to the people of God over there.
The event witnessed reception of Sacrament of confirmation by dozens of candidates, blessing and commissioning of the newly renovated Hall at the parish.
In his Homily, Archbishop Okeke while reflecting on the parable of the sower as captured in the Gospel of Mathew, enjoined Christians to be that fertile land where the word of God can germinate and bear fruits. He explained that those who hear the word of God and practice it till the end of their earthly life are the real fertile land, stating that God blessing and miracles shall never cease to follow them. ” If you are a fertile land, you will not seek for miracles rather God’s miracles will be following you”.
In address shortly after the Mass, the Catholic community rained accolades on the Archbishop for visiting and blessing them and as well felicitated him on his 42nd priestly anniversary, describing him as a great achiever who has taken the Archdiocese to an enviable height.
The parishioners also eulogized their parish priest Fr Mike Okagbue for transforming the parish, testifying that he is a dedicated and committed priest who is sacrificing all his time and energy to ensure steady development of the parish.
Fr Okagbue in his remarks, extolled the Archbishop for visiting them, describing his presence as manifestation of his love to the parish. He also appreciated the parishioners for their unalloyed support and cooperation.
Mr Charles Emeka Agha ( Igwe Chibuikem of the parish ) who spoke to Trinitas expressed happiness over the coming of the Archbishop. He further praised the parish priest Fr Okagbue for completing most of the parish projects within a short period of time.
A parishioner Chief Barth Eli ( Ichie Ozuluigbo Awka Etiti) in his contribution congratulated Archbishop on his 42 anniversary, describing him as a workaholic and evangelical prelate who has brought gospel to door steps of Christians through creation of many parishes.
Also a parishioner Amb. Obiakor said they are elated over the visit of the Local ordinary, disclosing that they have been encouraged spiritually.
Parish CMO president Chukwudi Ossai and the parish CWO president Hon. Iyom Nnedimma Ndukamma on their part saw the visit of the Archbishop as blessing and spiritual upliftment.
The duo also commended the efforts of the parish priest towards the development of the parish, testifying that he has brought massive transformation to the parish.
