Department of Church and Society, CSN

On Sunday, September 15th, 2024, the Catholic community of St. Mary’s Church Oraukwu was filled with joy as their magnificent church tower was dedicated to the Almighty God. The solemn dedication rites were performed by His Grace Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, Archbishop of Onitsha and Metropolitan of the Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province. The event attracted a large number of faithful, including the traditional ruler of Oraukwu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Barr. Dr. Emeka Onuora, and his cabinet members.

In his homily, Archbishop Okeke highlighted the significance of the dedication ceremony, describing it as the formal handover of the church building to God. He explained that once a church is dedicated, it undergoes an intrinsic transformation, becoming the house of God where only Holy Masses and church programs will take place. Reflecting on St. Paul’s message that “the temple of God is holy, and we are the living temple,” the Archbishop urged the faithful to embrace continuous purification and renewal, keeping their inner temple holy. He emphasized that all who participated in the dedication Mass underwent a spiritual rededication, receiving God’s liberation and blessings.

Archbishop Okeke also encouraged the parishioners to mark September 15th annually as the feast of their church dedication, declaring it a solemn day for the community.

Following the dedication Mass, the Catholic community expressed their deep appreciation for Archbishop Okeke in a welcome address. They praised him for dedicating their church and for his unwavering support, calling him a “living saint” for his sacrifices on behalf of the faithful. In response, Archbishop Okeke commended the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Jude Uchegbusi, for his determination in completing the church building project and thanked the parishioners for their support and cooperation, urging them to continue their good works.

Rev. Fr. Jude Uchegbusi, who also serves as the spiritual director of the Olu ndi Enigwe Adoration Ministry, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Archbishop Okeke for dedicating the church. He thanked all parishioners, especially the Lagos branch, for their generous donations toward the church building project and prayed for God’s blessings upon them.

The traditional ruler of Oraukwu, His Royal Majesty Barr. Dr. Emeka Onuora (Igwe Chinyere Eze n’Oraukwu), shared his joy over the church dedication, encouraging the Christian community in Oraukwu to remain dedicated to serving God and humanity, ensuring the continued progress of the church in Oraukwu.

The event marked a significant milestone in the history of St. Mary’s Church Oraukwu, leaving the community deeply grateful and spiritually uplifted.