The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo, has highlighted the importance of fostering a spirit of ecumenism in churches to promote unity and national development.
Soludo noted that ecumenism accepts the diversity of God’s people, given in creation and redemption, and strives to bring these confessional, cultural, national, and racial differences into one fully committed fellowship. He urged religious leaders to unite and help salvage the economy.
He emphasised this message during the thanksgiving Mass commemorating the 40th priestly anniversary of Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Awka, the state capital.
Peaceful Co-existence
Governor Soludo commended Bishop Ezeokafor for his dedication to the Church’s growth and for promoting peaceful co-existence among various religious groups. He praised the Bishop’s exemplary leadership and his efforts in upholding the values of the Catholic faith, which have earned him widespread respect.
During his address, Governor Soludo encouraged Bishop Ezeokafor to continue using his influence to advocate for peace, justice, and unity in society. He also supported the Bishop’s initiatives for dignified living and burial, urging individuals to make positive contributions to their communities while alive.
Retreat Centre
The celebration saw notable contributions towards the construction of a new retreat centre in Isiagu community, Awka South Local Government Area. Sir Paul Chukwuma, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress and a potential governorship contender in 2025, donated N150 million to the Catholic Diocese of Awka. Senator Victor Umeh, chairman of the occasion, also contributed N5 million towards the project.
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Bishop Ezeokafor expressed gratitude for the generous donations, emphasising the importance of philanthropy and community support. He vowed to continue promoting unity and progress within the church and society through transformative programs and initiatives.
Speaking to journalists after the event, Rev. Fr. Hilary BenEzenwa, the chairman of the planning committee, reflected on the successful celebration of Bishop Ezeokafor’s 40 years in the Priestly Ministry.
He praised the bishop’s consistent dedication and leadership, acknowledging the support of the community in organizing the event.
He said, “What happened today is a testimony of a well-prepared event. The Bishop is 23 years a Priest and 17 years a Bishop. His life as a Bishop and a Priest wasn’t much different apart from the function he was performing.
“He was consistent. Who he was a priest is who he is, as a Bishop. He remained the same humble, dedicated, hard-working and thorough going person. I thank God for giving him to us as a good shepherd in our diocese.”
Bishop Ezeokafor, in a social media post, expressed profound gratitude to God and all attendees for their presence and contributions to the anniversary celebration.
He highlighted the grace and faithfulness of God throughout his 40 years in the Priestly Ministry, emphasizing the collective effort in realizing the diocesan Project at Isiagu for spiritual growth and nourishment.
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