St. Mary’s Catholic Parish Obibiezena Celebrates Feast Day

Posted by The Leader News Online on Sunday, September 8, 2013 · Leave a Comment

Rev. Fr. Dr. Edmund Njoku flanked by members of the Feast Planning Committee

It was an atmosphere of Joy as friends and parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Parish Obibiezena in Owerri North, L.G.A. gathered to celebrate the feast of their Patron Saint, St. Mary on September 1, 2013.

The occasion started with a concelebrated Mass presided over by the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Dr. Edmund Njoku assisted by his curate Rev. Fr. Fausta Echetama.

In his homily Fr. Njoku described the key words of the day’s readings as humility and giving to others without expecting reward.

The homilist established the fact that God has no exclusive club for favorites but rather sees all as equal before his presence. Hence, he enjoined all to treat one another with respect and love as siblings of one father who has called all to the great feast at mount zion.

Fr. Njoku regretted that contrary to the word of God, Christians still segregate among themselves especially when they celebrate. According to him, they tend to invite the rich for what they can receive. Hence he encouraged all to extend their helping hands to the poor who give nothing in return in other to receive God’s blessings.

The clergy advised all to embrace humility which according to him means, taking their fellow human being as they take themselves. While urging all to abhor pride which is described as an incurable disease in the gospel, Fr. Edmund also reminded all that in every act of giving, the intention is of paramount importance. He concluded by saying that God alone gives eternal life and prayed that by giving to others all may receive God’s blessing on earth and in heaven.

Highlights of the event included; welcome song, cultural dance and drama, by Parishioners from various stations of the Parish.

This year’s celebration, organized by Mr. Emele Paul (chairman), Mr. Nobert Nneke (Secretary) under the supervision of the Parish Council Chairman, Mr. Patrick Okerafor, was memorable.

It would be recalled that the parish was inaugurated on March 3rd 1961 with Rev. Fr. J.O. Conor as it’s Pioneer Parish Priest, assisted by Rev. Fr. Donald Okoro who is now a Monsignor.