By Nkiru Anakor
The Bishop of Ekwulobia Catholic Diocese, His Eminence, Cardinal Peter Okpaleke, has urged Christians to honour Christ not only through worship but also by showing love and compassion to the poor and vulnerable.
Okpaleke made the call during the dedication of the newly completed St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Oko, on July 12. The ceremony, which coincided with the Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, attracted Catholic faithful, clergy, and other guests.
The event commenced with the blessing of the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, followed by the Solemn Mass for the dedication of the church.
In his homily, the Cardinal, reflecting on Nehemiah 8:2, 4–6 and 8–10, said that although church buildings are sacred places of worship, the proclamation of God’s Word gives true meaning to every gathering of believers. He described every Catholic church as the home of God’s Word.
Drawing from the teaching of St. John Chrysostom, he urged the faithful to put their faith into practice through acts of charity, saying, “We must also honour Christ in the poor, for the same Lord whom we adore on the altar meets us in those who suffer.”
He encouraged Christians to extend the reverence shown in the sanctuary to the needy, stressing that genuine worship must be reflected in service to others.
The dedication marked a significant milestone for the Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. Damian Ogwatta, and members of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, whose years of dedication and sacrifice culminated in the completion of the church edifice.
Earlier, the Acting Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, Mrs. Bibian Onwuvumpe, expressed gratitude to God and appreciated all individuals and groups whose support made the project a reality.
The ceremony featured cultural performances and other entertainment as parishioners and guests celebrated the successful completion and dedication of the new church.
Nkiru Anakor is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
