The faithful of Orlu Diocese gathered in a spirit of joy and thanksgiving on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, to celebrate their diocesan feast day. Traditionally held on January 6th, Feast of the Epiphany, the event was rescheduled this year to enable the faithful to attend the event. Nevertheless, the celebration retained its solemnity and splendor, beginning with a Holy Mass presided over by His Grace, Most Rev. Bryan Udaigwe, the Apostolic Nuncio to Sri Lanka.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Chibuike Ukeh set the tone for the day, delivering a powerful and reflective message. Welcoming dignitaries and the faithful, he reminded all of the unity symbolized by the bishop’s presence, citing the profound Latin phrase “Ubi episcopus, ibi ecclesia”—”Where the bishop is, there is the Church.” Fr. Ukeh emphasized that the diocesan feast day is a time to reflect on the Church’s foundation and celebrate its mission.
Drawing inspiration from the Gospel reading, Fr. Ukeh recounted Christ’s miraculous feeding of the 5,000, highlighting how Jesus cared for both the physical and spiritual needs of the people. He linked this act of divine compassion to the mystery of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem, the “House of Bread,” and His declaration as the Bread of Life. Fr. Ukeh called on the faithful to emulate Christ’s love and generosity, especially during the Christmas season, reminding them that all blessings come from God.
After the Mass, the Catholic Bishop of Orlu, Most Rev. Augustine T. Ukwuoma, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who participated in the day’s celebration. He extended an invitation to the diocesan secretariat, where a festive reception awaited. The celebration continued with music, dance, and a joyful gathering of clergy, religious, and laity. During the reception, Bishop Augustine took a moment to reflect on the diocese’s rich history, paying tribute to the late Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Gregory Ochiagha, whose legacy continues to inspire the faithful.
The day concluded on a high note, as attendees departed with hearts full of gratitude and joy, carrying with them renewed zeal to live out their faith and foster unity in the diocese.
