21st Century Miracle: Bishop Okeke Dedicates Deo Gratias Rectory

By Chioma Nnagbo

On Sunday, 9th February 2020, the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Hilary Paul Odili Okeke, blessed Deo Gratias Rectory Maryland at College of Health Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Okofia, Nnewi Campus.

During his homily at the mass, the bishop advised the students to be the light that shines through darkness. He added that God has made them to be the light and salt of the earth. He told students never to lose their value as the salt of the earth. The bishop thanked the students and members of staff for their efforts and contributions to the building and completion of the rectory. He thanked all the benefactors who have contributed to the growth of the chaplaincy and to the church.

On his own part, the Chaplain of St. Camillus De Lellis, Rev Fr Jude Chetanna Chukwuneke, described the building and completion of the Deo Gratias Rectory Maryland as a 21st century miracle. He said that the building of the rectory started without any money; adding that the funds were provided by students, lecturers and other benefactors. In his word, ‘Deo Gratias Rectory is a dream come true’

Giving his vote of thanks, Fr. Chukwuneke, thanked Bishop Okeke for his pastoral care and love for the church. He thanked him for his time and most importantly, for his love toward the youths and children. He also expressed his gratitude to all the priests and religious present at the occasion. He thanked the Director of Social Communications, Awka Diocese, Rev Fr Martin Anusi, for his constant love and support. He thanked the assistant Chaplain, Rev Fr Cornelius Offiah, for his availability and expressed his immense gratitude to the students and members of staff of the university, who with their support, made Deo Gratias Rectory, Maryland a reality.

At the end of the mass, students took pictures and expressed joy over the completion and dedication of the rectory.

The Chaplain, Rev Fr Chetanna Jude Chukwuneke, cuts the tape for the opening of the new Deo Gratias Rectory St Camillus De Lellis Chaplaincy, Maryland, College of Health Science, UNIZIK, Okofia, Nnewi Campus