~ Calls For Protection Of Christian Values By The Church.
~ Advocates Removal Of Politics From Religion As Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye Becomes The Second Nnewi Diocesan Bishop Since Inception
The industrial town of Nnewi was yesterday, 10th of February, 2022, agog with beehive of activities as the over 100 Catholic parishes under the coverage of the Nnewi Diocesan District converged to formally witness the installation of new bishop of the diocese after the resignation of the bishop emeritus due to falling health.
The event which kicked off with a homily by the apostolic nunciature, His Eminence Antonio Guido Filipazzi, had over 45 bishops in attendance led by the president of the Catholic Bishops Council Of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Augustine Akabueze.
The well loved and charismatic emeritus bishop, Most Rev. Hillary Okeke (Nna Ora), who served as the Pioneer bishop of the diocese for 20 years since 10th of February 2002, gave an emotional valedictory speech on the occasion and called on the Catholic community in the diocese to give the newly installed bishop all the necessary support required to promote the works of God. He also took out time to extol the effort made by Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah for committing so much personal fund into single handledy building the cathedral to 80% completion.
Senator Patrick Ubah, while talking to journalists after the church service, called for a more concerted effort at arresting the current moral decadence prevalent amongst our youths. He further lamented what he called the “destructive effect of sustained attempts by tainted politicians at influencing the body of Christ negatively and called on the clergy to watch, pray amd guide diligently against such manipulations “. When asked why he made the decision to build the house of God (Cathedral), he said that his actions were as divinely directed by God in line with his vision for the spiritual and physical sustenance, nurturing and development of humanity. In conclusion he assured the bishop of his continued support and prayers.
The event was witnessed by many dignitaries including the State Governor, Gov. Willie Obiano; the Governor elect, Professor Chukwuma Soludo; a former Governor of the State, Mr Peter Obi and many others.
