The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Leonard Jioke, the parishioners and entire Catholic faithful of Our Lady of Assumption Parish Umuariam, on November 5, 2023, warmly welcomed the presence of His Lordship, Most Rev. Solomon Amamchukwu Amatu, the Catholic Bishop of Okigwe Diocese on his Pastoral visit to their parish. It was the bishop’s first official visit to the parish after four years of a similar visit. The Holy Mass commenced at exactly 10:00 am, with the Bishop as the Chief Celebrant, flanked by the parish priest, and the Dean of Obowo East, Very Rev. Fr. Jude Kingsley Maduka.
Speaking during his homily, the bishop pointed out the special message the day’s readings have for priests and all preachers of the Word. He expressed how much preachers have lost the way and have turned from the Divine mandate to lead God’s flocks.
The bishop however reiterated that the failure of the preachers to live out what they preach is no excuse for anyone who may decide to ignore the word of God. Hence, just as Jesus said of the Sadducees and their counterparts, the Pharisees, the preachers also occupy the seat of Moses and must be listened to.
Finally, the bishop encouraged both the priests and the faithful present, to be more careful in both deeds and omissions in order to avoid attracting God’s wrath.
Other highlights of the event include:
– the solemn Confirmation of 55 Candidates
– an Address of welcome and packages of goodwill presented to the bishop
– photo shots of the bishop with the newly confirmed and the priests, and guests present
– warm reception of His Lordship by the Parish Council, at the end of the ceremony.
The priests who attended the ceremony include:
– Very Rev. Fr. Bartholomew Nnaemedo, Vicar General II
– Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor/Secretary
– Very Rev. Fr. Jude Kingsley Maduka, Dean Obowo East
– Very Rev. Fr. Chibuike Uwakwe, Diocesan Finance Administrator
– Very Rev. Msgr. Cletus Ehiem Finance Consultant
– Rev. Fr. Leonard Jioke SMMM, Parish Priest
– Rev. Fr. Richard Onuoha SMMM, Assistant Parish Priest
– Rev. Fr. Benjamin Okafor
