*New Father’s House, Chapel, Grotto Commissioned_
*Over 100 Candidates Confirmed_
By Nna Anulumadu
Joy filled the air at Akili-Ogidi Catholic community on Sunday, February 23rd , 2025 as the Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, paid a maiden visit to Holy Trinity parish Akili Ogidi.
The epoch-making event witnessed the blessing and commissioning of completed projects, including a new rectory, chapel of perpetual adoration, and grotto. Additionally, over 100 candidates received the sacrament of confirmation.
In his homily, Archbishop Okeke charged Christians to forgive their enemies unconditionally and support them with love. He emphasized the importance of forgiveness in the Christian faith, explaining that to forgive one’s enemies, one must first accept the Spirit of God, which brings about divine transformation and empowerment.
“When you accept the Spirit of God, He makes you His child,” the prelate said. “Once the Spirit of God is active in you, you will continue to exude forgiveness, compassion, love, and charity.”
The prelate recalled the biblical story of David, who spared the life of Saul, his enemy, despite having the opportunity to kill him. Archbishop Okeke noted that David’s actions demonstrated that with God on one’s side, one is always in the majority.
In a welcome address at the event, the Catholic community eulogized the prelate for visiting them, describing his presence as a “faith boost.” They also appreciated him for his assistance and encouragement, particularly for sending Rev. Fr. Christopher Kosisochukwu Ogugua as their pioneer parish priest, who has been a blessing to their community.
They extolled Fr. Ogugua for transforming the parish within a few years of his arrival, describing him as a hardworking and dynamic priest who is bent on moving the parish to greater heights.
Responding, Archbishop Okeke commended the parish priest, Fr. Ogugua, for his commitment and sacrifices, expressing satisfaction with the level of development at the parish. He urged Fr. Ogugua not to relent in his efforts and also appreciated the parishioners for showing faith.
In his remarks, the parish priest, Fr. Christopher Ogugua, expressed unalloyed gratitude to the Archbishop for visiting, stating that their joy knew no bounds. He poured encomiums on his parishioners for demonstrating a high level of commitment and support to the development of the parish.
The chapel donor, Architect Olisama Chukwuemeka Stephen, who spoke to Trinitas Newspaper, said he was elated to witness the blessing of the chapel he built. He disclosed that he made the donation to appreciate God for His blessings and favors on his life.
He enjoined fellow Christians not to be afraid of giving to God, saying it pays to support God’s work. He added that he is a living testimony to the gains of giving freely to God.
Other parishioners who spoke to Trinitas Newspaper expressed joy over the event. They also praised their parish priest for his sincere commitment to building, describing him as a dynamic and ebullient priest.
