On August 3rd, 2025, the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Catholic Parish, Eziachi, were filled with joy as they welcomed the Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Orlu, His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Ukwuoma, on a pastoral visit. The visit was marked by the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation to 197 candidates who had been duly prepared and found worthy to receive the sacrament.
The high point of the occasion was the celebration of the Holy Mass, which began promptly at 9:00 a.m., presided over by the bishop. Concelebrating with him were the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Hyginus Obia, and Rev. Fr. Dr. Uzoma Godwin, CMF, alongside other priests and religious. The parishioners, filled with eager anticipation and radiant joy, were seated well before the liturgy began.
In his homily, Bishop Ukwuoma expressed that his visit was a pastoral duty to strengthen the faith of the people and to understand the challenges they face.
He noted that the Gospel brings true transformation. He contrasted pre-Christian cultural practices—such as the killing of twins and the marginalization of women—with the liberating message of Christ, which brings dignity and life. However, he lamented that many of today’s youth are turning back to former ways of ignorance, losing the wisdom that comes from the Word of God.
The bishop drew insights from the first reading (Ecclesiastes), describing the futility of chasing wealth without a spiritual foundation. “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity,” he said, reminding the faithful of the transient nature of worldly possessions. He also highlighted the parable of the rich fool in the Gospel, who hoarded wealth without thought for others or gratitude to God. “He failed to recognize the God who gave the increase,” the bishop remarked. He urged all to live lives of generosity, humility, and service, stressing that no one is too poor to give.
“Giving is not only for the wealthy,” the bishop emphasized. “God has given each of us talents and skills, which we must use for His glory and for the service of others.”
Before the Sacrament of Confirmation was administered, the bishop addressed the candidates, reminding them that being “soldiers of Christ” does not imply violence but rather a commitment to goodness, respect, and service—such as obedience to parents and helping with chores. He prayed that the gifts of the Holy Spirit would bear fruit in their lives.
Following the Confirmation rite, Mass continued reverently. After the consecration, Bishop Ukwuoma presented awards to winners of the recently concluded parish quiz competition. St. Patrick’s has five outstations, with All Saints (Government Station) clinching first place, St. Christopher’s Amano placing second, and Holy Trinity Station, Amato, taking third. In the individual category, Maryrose Adegbu came first, followed by Henry Ukwuoma and Esther Nwafor.
In his vote of thanks, the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Hyginus Obia, expressed deep gratitude to the bishop for his presence, noting that it had been four years since the last episcopal visit. He also requested that winners of the parish’s youth soccer tournament be similarly recognized to encourage active youth involvement in the Church.
The parish secretary, Eziada Vivian Ogbenna, also addressed the bishop, thanking him for his tireless service to the diocese and extending condolences over the recent loss of some diocesan priests. She praised the parish priest for his pastoral zeal and listed some parish achievements, including the introduction of burial reforms to assist bereaved families, support for free weddings, and the increase in pious societies. She concluded by assuring the bishop of the community’s warm and open-hearted welcome.
In response, the bishop commended the parish priest and the faithful for their commitment to spiritual growth and parish development. He specifically praised the secretary for her eloquent and accurate presentation.
In a touching gesture, Bishop Ukwuoma awarded scholarships to three newly confirmed candidates who came forward to express their gratitude, emphasizing the value of appreciation. He encouraged the youth to seek God sincerely and not be misled by idols or the lure of material wealth.
The bishop also blessed the newly constructed Grotto of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and the M.O.D. (Man of Order and Discipline) stand, marking the close of the celebration with great joy. The day concluded with a lively reception in honor of the bishop’s visit.
