UNIZIK: Catholic bishop visits chaplaincy, commissions rectory, confirms 273 candidates
By Augustine, Victor and JohnBosco
In a joyous celebration, St. Joseph the Worker’s Catholic Chaplaincy at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, on 11th of August, welcomed His Lordship, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, for a pastoral visit, administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, and the commissioning of the new rectory.
The event kicked off with a Holy Mass, during which 273 candidates were confirmed, and the rectory opened afterward.
Speaking on the rectory, Ifeanyichukwu Ogbu, NFCS Onitsha ecclesiastical provincial Secretary, said “This is the greatest achievement that the chaplain in charge of this chaplaincy has accomplished. He fought tooth and nail to complete this, so I feel great because our priests will now be closer to us, and they won’t need to drive far to attend to the needs of the parishioners.”
Meanwhile, the highlight of the event was the reception which featured remarks from Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, the chairperson of the event, Fr. Remigius Ezeokonkwo, the Chaplain, as well as other affected persons.
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However, in the spirit of the celebration, various societies and organizations within the chaplaincy including the; CMO, CWO, Choir, St. Vincent de Paul, and NFCS, presented awards and gifts to the Bishop.
Notable dignitaries that graced the event includes Prof. Carol Arinze Ume-Obi, Ag. VC of Unizik; Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, as well as the chairman of the occasion; Comr. Onyinye Nwachukwu, the Acting SUG President; and Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, the Chief of Staff to the Governor.
Speaking with Okpara Samuel, a confirmation candidate, about how he plans going forward, he said, “I plan on living a holy life while looking up to God to strengthen me.”
Stella Onyinyechukwu, another candidate, expressed her gratitude for the catechism classes, stating, “I learnt about the Holy Spirit, the sacraments, and much more. The teachings were wonderful.”
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the Bishop and a closing prayer, bringing the day’s activities to a successful end.