Historic Visit: Bishop Godfrey Onah Graces Mary Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Sabogida-Ora

By Cynthia Aule, CSN

In a historic and joyous event, the Mary Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Sabogida-Ora, which is a Mass Centre under St. Joseph parish, Ora, welcomed Most Rev. Godfrey Onah, the Bishop of Nsukka. He was accompanied by Most Rev. Charles Hammawa of Jalingo Diocese (represented by Fr. William Awoshiri) and Miss Cynthia Aule, a staff of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria.

The visit marked a significant occasion for the small but vibrant community, who were filled with joy and spiritual renewal.

The Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of the Mass Centre set the tone for the day with a grand procession and traditional songs, warmly welcoming the distinguished guests. The arrival of Bishop Onah was met with enthusiasm and reverence, as he was greeted by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Moses Afokhume, and the entire congregation. Two children, dressed in traditional attire, presented symbolic flowers to the Bishop, marking the beginning of the event with a touch of cultural significance.

During the Mass, in a remarkable gesture that resonated deeply with the congregation, Bishop Onah delivered his homily in Pidgin, responding to the request of the people. He used the opportunity to teach the people about the life of St. Augustine, emphasizing the importance of being transparent in truth and encouraging them to speak to God with a clear conscience.

The church’s location is noteworthy, as from its landmark, one can easily connect to Akure, the capital of Ondo State, highlighting its significance within the region.

Throughout the event, the CWO and the children of the Mass Centre showcased their rich cultural heritage through vibrant traditional dances and songs. The choir’s melodious performance of local songs further enriched the celebration.

In his welcome address, Sir Chris Ekauno, KSM, the Church Laity Chairman, expressed deep gratitude for the Bishops’ visit. He highlighted the historical significance of the occasion, noting how the visit not only strengthened the spiritual bonds within the community but also reaffirmed their cultural pride. Sir Chris also conveyed the community’s appreciation for the initiative of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in organizing such a meaningful pastoral visit. He acknowledged how the Bishop’s effort to connect with the community in their own language through pidgin was especially impactful and praised the CBCN for their commitment to reaching out to even the most remote areas. He prayed for the continued guidance and protection of the Bishop’s conference and for the community to remain united and inspired by the teachings shared.

The visit, filled with spiritual and cultural significance, has left an indelible mark on the Mary Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church Mass Centre and its parishioners, who assured that day will remain remarkable and well cherished for a long time, and serve as a source of inspiration and unity for the community.