ARCHBISHOP AKUBEZE CONSECRATES ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, CONFIRMS 29 FAITHFUL
By Augustine Orapine
The Catholic community in Ukomu came alive with joy, colour, and deep spirituality on Saturday as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, dedicated the newly constructed St. Joseph Catholic Church, Okomu, and administered the sacrament of confirmation to 29 faithful.
The historic celebration was marked by a vibrant cultural welcome as the Archbishop was received with a traditional Tiv dance, symbolising the unity of faith and culture in the Church’s mission. The dedication Mass was attended by clergy, religious, parishioners, guests from neighbouring communities, and representatives of Okomu Oil Palm Company.
In his homily, Archbishop declared the event a clear sign of the growth of God’s kingdom, even in rural areas, “Today, we are witnessing the expansion of the kingdom of God, as we gather together to dedicate this Holy House, St Joseph Catholic Church, build to the Glory of God in this blessed community of Ukomu. Ensuring growth of the church even in the ruler areas like, despite the tribulation is a clear testimony that church is not of human origin.
“The church is of divine foundation, it is God’s word mot man’s word, it is God’s plan, it is God’s house, not man’s invention. And because it is more of God, it will continue to stand, to grow and to bear fruits until the end of time.” He said.
The Archbishop expressed deep gratitude to all who contributed to the project, especially Rev. Fr. John, Nzete, the parish priest, for his pastoral dedication and perseverance. “I must commend all those who play a role in bringing this project to fulfillment. In a special way, I thanked the parish priest, Rev fr John for his pastoral and perseverance in completing this project. I thank also the building committee, the architect, the workers and in deed all of you who contributed your time and your talents. May God richly replenish you in hundreds folds through Christ our Lord” he appreciated.
The Archbishop further encouraged the newly confirmed candidates to cherish the gift of the Holy Spirit, remain firm in their faith, and be witnesses to Christ in both the Church and society. ” My dear people of God, I urge you to treasure this gift, let it strengthen your christian life even your love for the church. I beg you to serve both God and the society faithfully. Never stop talking about your faith. Visit the blessed sacrament regularly and receive worthily the secrete Eucharist at all time.” He urged.
The Parish Priest, in his welcome address, thanked the Archbishop for his fatherly presence and for accepting to dedicate the church and confirm the candidates. He described the church as a new beacon of hope, faith, and love for the people of Ukomu.
“As we dedicate this church, we are reminded of the words of Jesus, ‘Whe
re two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them’ (Matthew 18:20). May this sacred space be a beacon of hope, faith, and communual love, where we come together to worship, pray, and serve the Lord Jesus Christ.
“We express our deepest gratitude to you Your Grace, for coming to bless, make holy and sacred this building as a place of worship. We also thank you for accepting to confirm 29 of our parishioners at this solemn celebration. Your leadership, guidance and generosity are a blessing to our community, and we are grateful for your role in consecrating this church.
“As we begin this celebration, we invoke the Lord’s blessing upon this church, its people, and all who will worship here. May this sacred place be filled with the presence of God, and may we be transformed by his love and mercy. Also, may we always find joy and happiness each time we come here for worship as the psalmist says, ‘I rejoice when I heard them say let’s go to the house of the lord’” he said.
Fr. Nzete also paid tribute to Rev. Fr. Charles Onomohale Igechi, a beloved priest of the Archdiocese, whose second anniversary of death coincided with the dedication. “Finally, we remember in a special way at this mass to pray for the happy repose of the soul of late Rev. Fr. Charles Onomohale Igechi, who died exactly two ago on this day. Eternal rest grant onto him O lord.” He prayed.
The event concluded with thanksgiving and joy, as parishioners danced and celebrated their new achievement.
