By Emma Eko, CSN Media
The Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. Thomas Ifeanyichukwu Obiatuegwu, has called on the faithful to look to the Cross of Christ as the true source of salvation. He gave the charge during the vespers and benediction held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at St. Lucy Catholic Church, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Akwa Ibom State, as part of activities marking the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) 2nd Plenary Assembly.
The liturgical celebration began with the recitation of the Holy Rosary, followed by exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, presided over by Bishop Obiatuegwu. Delivering his homily on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the Bishop reminded the faithful that the Cross is a symbol of victory and citizenship in Christ.
“Thank God the Church is celebrating that feast in which the face of the earth was renewed,” he said. “As soldiers of the Cross, we are no longer slaves or foreigners. In this our second plenary, may we invoke this spirit and power of God to find success in our deliberations.”
Bishop Obiatuegwu noted that although crucifixion was a mark of shame and humiliation in the Roman Empire, Christians must never take for granted the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which transformed the Cross into a sign of triumph and salvation.
Following the solemn vespers and benediction, parishioners of St. Lucy Catholic Church organised a warm reception to welcome the bishops, priests, and dignitaries in attendance.
The pioneer parish priest, Rev. Fr. Michael Essien, expressed gratitude to God for the privilege of hosting the bishops in the young parish. He particularly appreciated the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, for his historic visit, and commended the Senate President, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, for his immense support in building the parish church.
“No title is greater than builder of God’s house,” Fr. Essien said.
On behalf of the Bishops’ Conference, the CBCN President, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, thanked the parishioners for their hospitality and generosity, describing their gesture as unforgettable. He also lauded Senator Akpabio for his unwavering commitment to mission work through his contributions to the church’s development.
The event, which formed part of the ongoing CBCN 2nd Plenary Assembly, was graced by top government officials, clergy, and faithful, with the Senate President himself present to participate in the celebration.
