By Ononye VC/Rev Sr Judith Ezeogu
The Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity Onitsha was in a festive mood last Sunday as 37 Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary,Mother Christ, (IHM),congregation celebrated their jubilees with a thanksgiving mass presided over by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha,Most Rev Valerian Okeke.
A breakdown of the number shows that 3 Sisters celebrated Diamond Jubilee, 13 celebrated Golden jubileee while 21 celebrated Silver Jubilee,totalling 37.
The celebration attracted a host of Monsignori and priests from different dioceses of East and West of the country.
In his homily, Archbishop Okeke while referring to the readings of the day, reminded the Sisters that there are two ways in life; the way of wisdom and the way of foolishness. He enjoined all to follow the way of wisdom.
The Archbishop further pointed out that Jubilee is God’s special intervention in our lives. “It is a time of giving thanks”, he said. He continued that there are many ways of giving thanks which include giving something tangible,sacrifice and forgiveness.
Within the Mass, the Jubilarians presented their special Jubilee Symbol with a theme from the scripture which read, ‘Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path’ (Psalm 110:105).
Mother Maureen Akabogu, the Superior General of the IHM Sisters who was present with her Councillors and other Sisters received the symbol from the Jubilarians.
Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion was the traditional ruler of Onitsha – Obi Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi) and his cabinet. Two Sisters indigene of Onitsha were among the Golden and Silver Jubilarians.
Families of the Jubilarians, co-workers, friends and well wishers from their different places of apostolate were in their numbers to support and rejoice with the Sisters.
After the Holy Mass, the Jubilarians were celebrated and entertained at the Basilica arena. The joy of the day was vibrant and infectious for all who were present at the occasion.
