Fides Media Living the Faith
By Ifeoma Ezenyilimba
St Vincent De Paul’s Catholic Parish, Otikpo, Oka-Uga, Aguata L.G.A, Anambra State, last Sunday, September 22, 2019, celebrated birthdays for her aged, who have attained 70 blessed years of age and above.
In his remarks, the host parish priest, St Vincent De Paul’s Parish, Oka-Uga, Rev Fr Cornelius Anene, thanked God for His grace and sustenance on the parish, through the intercession of the patron saint, Vincent De Paul.
Rev Fr Anene expressed his delight over the impressive turn out of the aged, especially those who had been constrained at homes due to aging difficulties. He noted that the event was part of the parish’s programmes to celebrate graceful living, in line with the teachings of the Church.
In his homily when he led in the concelebrated thanksgiving Mass for the St Vincent De Paul’s Parish Feast Day and birthday celebration for the aged, an indigenous priest of the parish, Rev Fr Venantius Ogbuagu, commended the parish for what he described as her worthwhile initiative to celebrate the aged, otherwise known as senior citizens.
Rev Fr Ogbuagu, who is the parish priest of St Mary’s Parish, Ifitedunu, urged the leaders at all levels to use their positions for the betterment of those they lead. He charged politicians and government officials in power to make proper use of the public funds for the provision of basic amenities such as constant electricity, water and good roads for the wellbeing of the masses.
The Catholic priest emphasized the need for employers to ensure prompt welfare of their workers, and the government to give priority attention to the welfare of the poor in society. He however called on the people to support their leaders with prayers.
Presentation of Certificates of Recognition / Birthday to over 100 old men and women by the parish, cutting of the celebration cake and cultural dance performances, among others, were the highlights of the well-attended event that had Nze Daniel Ezeigbokwe as the chairman of the occasion.
