By Ehichioya Steve Odion
It was all fun and joyful moments for Igbos across the Niger at St. Patrick’s Military Catholic Church, Lucky Way, Benin City last Sunday as they celebrated their annual thanksgiving.
The occasion saw a moment when all persons of Igbo origin in the church with no exemption joined by their friends and well wishers, appreciated God for the gift of life while presenting their gifts at the alter.
In his remarks at the post service reception, the Chairman of the Igbo across the Niger, Mr. Ifeanyi Ibe thanked God for giving them the enablement to gather once again to participate in their special End-Of-Year celebration.
Ibe said they come together annually not just as individuals, but as one family united in faith, in culture and in love for Christ.
According to him, “Throughout this year, God has shown us His mercy, protection and blessings. In moment of joy, He was with us, in time of challenges, He strengthened us. Indeed God has proven his faithfulness to us”.
He further said that as they reflected on the journey of the past months, they also celebrate the values that define them as Igbo people, culture, faith, unity, community spirit, integrity, hard work and support for one another.
“This gathering reminds us that wherever we are, East, West, North or South, Igbo is Igbo and our Catholic faith remains our foundation and identity. The church is our home and Christ is the center of our lives”.
He prayed that God strengthen their families and marriages, raise their children in the fear of God, promote unity and peace within their community, support the Parish and its mission and extend love and charity to the less privileged.
He thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the event, especially the executive, women leaders and all members of the group.
In his goodwill message, the council chairman of St. Patrick Military Catholic Church, Mr. Christian Eze congratulated the group on their end of year celebration. He thanked them for their support and contributions towards the church and sought more of such support in future.
He advised that the main purpose of this kind of group is to build bonds of love and unity and pray for the growth of the group.
The group used the event to honour some individuals with special Awards of Recognition. They described their contributions to the church and mankind as remarkable. The individuals that received the awards were Mr. Patrick Jonas Nwokoye and Chief Engr. Nnamdi Ihioma.
One of the special guests was the MD, Easy Life Hotel, Chief Iyke Nwaka
Highlight of the event was the cultural dance entertainment by the Ogene Oganairu Group and Igbo across the Niger women’s group.
Earlier in his homily titled: “Rejoice for the Lord is coming” at their Thanksgiving Mass, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Major Michael Nwafor, asked Christians to rejoice because God Almighty has made us alive, adding that either good or bad as far as they are alive it calls for celebration.
“We have to celebrate because the people that have been wailing in darkness have suddenly seen light. People who lived in the spiritual darkness shall be made to see light. God said He will bring them out of this shadow, a place where the presence of God is not felt”.
The man of God noted that the coming of Jesus Christ will bring spiritual blessings and strength, knowing full well that many children of God are passing through difficulties and pains. He however said that the scriptures assure us it will be over when Christ comes.
“Do not be discouraged, rather look up to God”, Fr. Nwafor concluded.
