Newly ordained Claretian blessing the ordaining prelate Bishop Augustine Ukwuoma

It was jubilation galore at the Claret House, World Bank Estate, New Owerri as friends, relations and well-wishers besieged the new Claret Chapel to witness the ordination of three priests and five deacons, Saturday, July 6.

The Catholic Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma presided over the ordination ceremonies.

In his sermon, Bishop Ukwuoma reminded the candidates that God has a purpose for choosing them to be instrument in His service, stressing that they are no longer the same persons they were before as they are now alter Christus, another Christ.

He reminded them that a priest has no private life as his life has become public.  Similarly, some of his rights have been taken away as he must do what the church wants him to do.

The prelate underscored the importance of discipline and obedience in the life of a priest, stressing that a priest must remain obedient to the Church because it is the test of his commitment to the Church, the Hierarchy and the Congregation.

“Don’t tribalize obedience and discipline.  Nobody is forced to be a priest or Religious.  It is your choice and if you make the choice be prepared to surrender some of your rights and live life of a priest”.

In the same vein, a priest must live life of sacrifice, make himself available to service at all times and at odd times, Bishop Ukwuoma said, adding, “like the candle, you are going to burn yourself until you burn out for the sake of Christ, the Church and the faithful”.

“I encourage you to live according to the choice, to live up to the commitment and choice you’ve made.  Don’t be afraid to be poor.  It is part of what God has called you.  Go with zeal and commitment”.  He further warned them not to let their parents or friends be a hindrance to their Religious life.  He also warned the laity not to be a stumbling block to their realization of their priestly vows.

After the ordination, the Provincial Superior, Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Nwobi (CMF) thanked the Bishop for accepting to preside over the ordination Mass.  He also commended their formators, parents, guardians, benefactors and those who contributed in one way or another to the ordination of the candidates.

The new priests later blessed the ordaining prelate, their fellow priests, the faithful and parents.

The three new priests are: Rev. Frs: Stanislaus Ekwujuru (CMF) from Awo-Mbieri, Stanley Ogaraku (CMF) from Dim na Nume Isu and  Matthew Iwuagwu (CMF) from Nnarambia, Ahiara Mbaise.

The deacons are: Revs: Anthony Achebe, Patrick Ekong, Matthew Mmuo, Marcellinus Ndubuisi and Emmanuel Ukata.

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