By Daniel Obagha
The Parish Priest of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Umuoba Anam, Anambra East Local Government Area(LGA), Rev. Fr. Paul Nwankwo, has called on Catholic mothers to emulate the unwavering faith, perseverance and prayerful life of St. Monica, whose steadfast prayers led to the conversion of her son, St. Augustine.
Fr. Nwankwo made the call during the Holy Mass marking the opening of the 2026 August Meeting of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) in the parish on August 4.
Reflecting on the life of St. Monica, the priest noted that she remained steadfast in prayer for 17 years despite the challenges she faced before witnessing the transformation of her son into one of the church’s greatest saints.
“St. Monica never gave up on her son. She prayed persistently until God answered her prayers and transformed Augustine into a saint. Mothers whose children are facing challenges should remain hopeful and continue praying because God is still in the business of restoring families,” he said.
He encouraged mothers not to lose faith over difficult family situations, expressing confidence that God would restore peace, unity and joy to homes that remain committed to prayer.
Fr. Nwankwo commended the women for gathering to deliberate on initiatives that would promote the development of their parish and community despite prevailing economic and security challenges.
He prayed for God’s guidance throughout the meeting, asking the Holy Spirit to inspire fruitful discussions and meaningful decisions that would positively impact families and society.
The cleric prayed for the moral transformation of young people involved in substance abuse and other negative behaviours, urging them to embrace education, vocational skills and apprenticeship for a better future.
Also speaking, the Grand Patroness of the Catholic Women Organisation in the Diocese of Aguleri, Mrs. Mary Agbata, prayed that God would bless the efforts of all mothers participating in the August Meeting.
She asked God to reward the women for setting aside their businesses and personal engagements to seek ways of strengthening their families, church and communities, while praying for their safe return home in good health and greater prosperity.
The President of the Catholic Women Organisation, St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Umuoba Anam, Mrs. Felicia Ekwenze, explained that the annual August Meeting is held during the month of August because it coincides with the church’s celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
According to her, the period is regarded as a season of grace, during which Catholic women seek the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for strength, wisdom and divine guidance in their homes and communities.
Following the Mass, members of the CWO commenced their annual meeting, with activities including the unveiling of the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Seed of Mary, the lighting of candles, prayers and group photographs with the parish priest.
Daniel Obagha is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
