Fides Media Living the Faith
… As Couple Receive Papal Blessing
By Mercy Hill and Daruwana Daku
It was a double celebration for the Ejiofo’s in Obeledu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State as Prof. (Sir) Pita Ejiofo’s, a Professor of Management Science, and erstwhile Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikwe University, Awka, as well as an ardent promoter of Igbo language and Leader of Out Sụwakwa Igbo, celebrated his 80th birthday cum golden jubilee of wedding on Tuesday, January 4, 2021.
The event which began with an pontifical Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Parish, Obeledu, was led by the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor.
The Bishop in his homily appreciated God for the life and family of Prof. Pita and Lady Vera Ejiofo’s, even as he noted that the journey to marriage was always a taxing one. He however commended the couple for their resilience, endurance and tolerance in making their marriage worthwhile.
The couple whom many described as a perfect couple, also received papal blessing from the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis. Receiving the blessing from Bishop Ezeokafor, the couple expressed joy and astonishment to be remembered from the Vatican.
Speaking on behalf of the family in a vote of thanks, the son, Tonna Ejiofo’s, thanked God for the life of their parents and his Lordship for coming to celebrate with them. Acknowledging all the priests present, the Knights and Lady of St John International, royal fathers, academics, politicians and businessmen, Ejiofo’s noted that the celebration was more than just an anniversary but a thanksgiving to God for how He saved the life of their father in the first quarter of 2021. He specially thanked the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Bishop Ezeokafor, and that of his Okigwe counterpart, Most Rev Solomon Amanchukwu Amatu, for always praying for the family in their challenging times.
The wife, Lady Vera Ejiofo’s, also appreciated God for the grace he gave them to live as a couple for the past 50 years. She attributed the longevity experienced in their marriage to love, patience and endurance. She also added that the challenges faced in the family had been surmountable with prayers and God’s intervention.
Fides gathered that Prof Pita and Vera Ejiofo’s were married in 1970. Their marriage is blessed with children and grandchildren.
The highlights of the event were exchange of wedding ring, cutting of cake, as well as presentation of gifts.
