Rev. Fr. Davidson Obioma with guests at his sent forth ceremony.

Friends and parishioners of the various stations in the Etekwuru Egbema in Ohaji LGA, Imo State, bid farewell to their pioneer Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Raymond Kojo Madu and also welcomed his successor, Fr. Davidson Obioma officially to the parish.  The ceremony took place at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish, last Sunday.

Introducing the Mass, Fr. Obioma thanked God for the congregation and prayed God to increase the faith and zeal of Fr. Kojo.  He also prayed God to establish unity and co-operation in the new parish and protect all the relevant landmarks.

Delivering the homily, Fr. Kojo expressed joy for identifying himself with the people of Egbema and declared that God’s word would purify and sanctify everyone.  He explained that prayer required calling God, Father and reverencing His Holy Name.  He said God did not answer prayers according to our wants but according to need.  He also advised the congregation to seek God’s mercy and forgiveness as sinners.

Fr. Kojo explained that prayer does not require screaming as some people do, because God is not deaf but answers prayers made in humility, patience and repentance.  He expressed admiration towards Abraham’s relationship with God, saying that such friendly and loving relationship affords one the privilege to ask God for favours.  He encouraged the people to build such relationship with God by living out their Christian life, as people who were crucified with Him and reborn in baptism.

Highlights of the event featured welcome songs and cultural dance by the youths of the parish.  In  his welcome address, Sir Donatus Ndukwe, Chairman Parish Council, said Fr. Raymond made the impossibilities possible in the parish by the grace of God.  The address described Fr. Raymond Kojo as a realist who made tremendous achievements such as construction of the priest residence, launching of a Toyota car for evangelism, laying of the foundation of the church building and the creation of many out-stations etc.  They promised that the selfless effort of Fr. Raymond in their parish will remain indelible in their hearts.  To Fr. Kojo he said: “Jiri aka iji’ (keep up with your good works.  He assured  the incumbent Parish Priest, Fr. Obioma, of their unanimous support and co-operation, saying that his actions since arrival have made positive impact in the parish.

The event took another turn during the presentation of gift by the parish council which included bags of garri, more than 30 tubers of yam, heads of plantains and cash while individuals presented cash, three pieces of Nigerian wax wrappers, microwave oven and other donations.  Gifts were also brought by the various out-stations in Etekwuru.  The Anglican community presented tubers of yams, heads of plantain and a storage cooler as a way of showing appreciation to Fr. Kojo for his kindness towards them during his stay at Etekwuru.

Fr. Obioma in his response acknowledged Fr. Raymond as a hard working achiever who through commitment to service lifted the spirit of Etekwuru.

Sir Donatus Ndukwe also thanked all present.  He advised all parishioners to contribute towards the growth of the church building project.

Fr. Kojo in his response expressed appreciation for all the gifts presented.  He also thanked Fr. Obioma for making the event a reality and prayed that God will continue to be their strength.

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