Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has received the Altar Servers Pillar Award from the Catholic Altar Servers Association of Nigeria (CASAN), Awka Diocese, in recognition of his service to the Catholic Church as a former altar server and his contributions to society.
The award was presented during the Awka Diocesan Old Boys Reunion and Special Convention held at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, Adazi-Nnukwu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Represented by the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, Governor Soludo expressed appreciation to the association for the honour and urged young altar servers to remain steadfast in faith, discipline and selfless service.
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In a message delivered on his behalf, the governor encouraged the altar servers to maintain a close relationship with God, saying the spiritual and moral values he acquired while serving at the altar helped shape his character and leadership.
He urged them to remain committed to serving God and humanity, noting that the discipline, integrity and sense of responsibility developed through altar service would continue to guide them throughout their lives.
The convention began with an Episcopal High Mass presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor.
In his homily, Bishop Ezeokafor described faith as the foundation of Christian life and encouraged altar servers to remain steadfast in their commitment to God despite life’s challenges.
He said altar servers occupy a unique place in the Church because of their close participation in the liturgy, urging them to uphold discipline, humility and dedication in their service.
Also speaking, the Mayor of Anaocha Local Government Area, Mr Rome Ibekwe, said his experience as a former altar server instilled in him the values of discipline, commitment and selfless service, which continue to influence his public life.
He encouraged young altar servers to view their service as preparation for responsible leadership and active citizenship.
The organisers said Governor Soludo was selected for the Altar Servers Pillar Award in recognition of his years of service as an altar server and his continued commitment to leadership, humanitarian service and community development.
Receiving the award on the governor’s behalf, Obidike commended CASAN for promoting the values of faith, discipline, integrity and service among young people, describing them as essential to building responsible leaders and a stronger society.
The convention brought together former and serving altar servers from across the Awka Diocese to strengthen fellowship, celebrate their shared heritage and reaffirm faith, discipline and service as foundations for responsible leadership and national development.
