Fides Media Living the Faith
By Anthony Akinmolafe
Following the announcement of her Pontifical Award in November and over seven decades of existence, Mrs Philomena Azuka Ozumba (Nnediugwu, Nwayigbue-efi) celebrated her birthday. The event which took place on Thursday, 29th December 2022, featured a Pontifical Mass of thanksgiving at St. Francis Catholic Church, Urunnebo, Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka LGA of Anambra State and a reception at her residence.
The event which started with a Holy Mass was graced by his lordship, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, accompanied by many priests.
During his homily, Bishop Ezeokafor expressed his delight to be present at the Mass and encouraged the celebrant to continue to place the love of God in her heart as she had always done, noting that she could achieve that if she loved her neighbours.
‘That is why the reading also tells us that there is no way we can talk of loving God without loving our brothers,’ Bishop Ezeokafor said.
He also said the preservation of one’s life remained the greatest responsibility for every human. ‘The greatest responsibility each and every one of us has is to preserve our lives; you have no reason to risk your life,’ he said, while urging children to ensure that they did all things in line with the doctrine of the Church.
While the Mass was on, Bishop Ezeokafor presented a Pontifical Award to Mrs Philomena Ezinne.
Rev. Fr. Chidi Jude Ozumba, the 6th child of the mother, while speaking to Fides, expressed gratitude for being a child of his mother whom he pointed out, scarified a lot for the growth of her children.
The event continued with a reception party in her house, with friends and loved ones all around to celebrate with her amid dancing and cutting of cake.
