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Vocationews VOL.
8 NO. 1 OCTOBER 1997 - APRIL 1998
ASPECTS
OF
(By Rev. Fr. Donatus Ironuma)
RPREAMBLE
The
diocese is a united family consisting of the bishop, his priests, the religious
and laity in a common enterprise. This unity is strength because, “a family
united can weather every storm, a church united can heal every division, a world united can solve every problem ,
human beings joined together can make miracles happen”.
ST.
MARY'S PROPAEDEUTIC SEMINARY AZUMINI: The spiritual year ended her 1996/97
academic year on June 30, 1997. The
seminarians of the spiritual year seminary participated for the first time at
this year's apostolic work for senior seminarians. 10 Aba diocesan seminarians
+ 3 seminarians of CCE graduated from the spiritual year and after scrutiny by
His Lordship all were found worthy to proceed to the senior seminary. The
vocations ministry notes with joy the
high level of formation that is imparted to the seminarians and welcomes Rev.
Fr. Okite to the college of formators. He replaces Rev. Fr. John Vianney Ijeoma
who travelled to U.S.A. and retains the
duties of bursar. The spiritual year reopened on October 10, 1997 for the
1997/98 academic year. 10 Aba diocesan seminarians + 3 CCE seminarians were
admitted. Mr. Onyechesi Longinus Ebere has joined the team of formators. He is
on one year diocesan assignment embarked upon by seminarians of Aba diocese,
who have excelled in their seminary formation especially after Philosophy. We
wish the Azumini team God's blessings.
FIRST
ENCOUNTER WITH ST. MARY'S PROPAEDEUTIC SEMINARY AZUMINI: I
was admitted into St. Mary's propaedeutic spiritual year seminary on August
17, 1996 and I thank God for granting
my prayer. The spiritual year seminary resumed for the 1996/97 academic year on
October 7, 1996. The eve of resumption
was very short for me since I could
hardly sleep out of excitement.
After I had made all last minute
preparations it remained the obligatory journey to Azumini which I soon had
behind me. My first encounter with the Spiritual year seminary was preceded by lots of thought consisting of
phantasies and realities. My expectation of a serene meditative atmosphere was
confirmed at the first encounter since the compound presented a quiet picture
of a monastery. One of the building complexes
goes actually by the name Gethsemane with life size statues of the Lord mounted
at different locations in a garden reminiscent of the Gethsamane of old.
These statues took diverse postures in the small garden in front of the
main building. Some evoke pleasant thoughts of meditation, some evoke painful
thoughts while others just stare you
straight in the face some what castigating. I tended to figure out what these
associations stood for and had flash thoughts as to the expectations placed on
students of this great place. I was soon welcomed into the interior of this
very Gethsemane. When I was showed a room, I stood there but did not understand
what the senior seminarian who received me meant. After waiting for a while I approached him to inquire what I
should exactly do next and where I should actually pack in. To my greatest
surprise he told me that the room I was shown was my room. I exclaimed within
me - incredible!. A few minutes later my roommate Mr. Paul Okeke came in from
the backyard and we introduced ourselves and shared our first experiences.
Indeed these rooms were for us - spacious, with rare marbles, self-contained,
specially illuminated and ventilated. The very atmosphere of pain and
crucifixion outside soon gave way to something quite different. I felt within
me joy, happiness and welcome. It was then that I started to ponder over the
contrasting agonising exterior and the exhilarating interior. My mind went straight to expectations placed
on students of this great place. I was further overwhelmed by the love and care
that must be behind the minds of those
who assembled us here for formation. I prayed that the opportunities given to
me in Aba diocese should never slip away, I reaffirmed my resolve to give my
best in my formation, I prayed to see joy and happiness in all difficulties I
would encounter on my way to the priesthood, I prayed not to succumb to
difficulties but to learn from these as the way to greater things to come (Jude
Okorie).
NEWS
FROM ANANNUNCIATION SEMINARY AMAUDARA. In line with
her policy of self sufficiency, the seminary has opened a clinic with her own
two paid permanent nurses. This arrangement as novel as it is has started
yielding marvelous results. With the facilities for minor treatments in place,
seminarians now get more thorough and urgent medical attention while reserving
only the difficult cases for treatment at outside hospitals. There is a
noticeable reduction of the number of students seeking permission to go home
for treatment since the seminary can offer equal services. This has made it possible to have the
get-sick too-often students retained in the compound for their formation. Plans
are now at advanced stage to have the hostels modernised and renovated. With
the appointment of the new rector Rev. Fr. Dr. Callistus Onwere, who has just
come back from Italy, it is hoped that the seminary would vigorously wear a new
face soon. The vocation ministry congratulates Rev. Fr. Hendilaha Emeka Okite
and his team comprising Rev. Fr. Alexander Okonkwor and Rev. Fr. Anthony Iroh
for the wonderful work they did in the seminary during their tenure. This team
has now been replaced by the duo Rev. Fr. Dr. Callistus Onwere and Rev. Fr.
Gabriel Ezeh who have since assumed duties. The vocations ministry welcomes
them to their sacred duties of formation of future priests of Aba diocese. In
the team of formators are our three seminarians on diocesan assignment, Mr.
Anthony Chukwuma, Mr. Chidi Ekpendu, and Mr. Jerome Opuehi.
REPORTS
FROM 1997 APOSTOLIC WORK I did my six-weeks apostolic
work in three stations: St. Matthew's Ovungwu, Immaculate Conception Amaputa
and St. Mary’s Umuojima. I was warmly received at these stations. I stayed for
two weeks in each of these stations. I conducted daily morning prayers, taught
catechism classes, promoted choir practices and encouraged the faithful in my
home-visitations. Over and above all, I conducted church services for the
congregations in the absence of the parish priest on Sundays. Furthermore, I instructed the Charismatic
societies by pointing out excesses that need to be curbed. I emphasized to them
the need to say the holy rosary daily and go to confession regularly. These are
some practices they frown at. I also encouraged the society of Sacred Heart of
Jesus, attended to the less privileged and our fallen Catholics. I observed with deep dismay that lack of a
residential catechists in each of these stations may be some of the factors
that slow down their pace of progress.
I concluded my apostolate at the Immaculate Conception Amaputa with a
three-day retreat. (Dafe Emmanuel at
Ss. Peter & Paul Parish Mbutu-Ngwa). On arrival we
were given a room at the father's house by the Parish Priest Rev. Msgr. B. O. Onwumere. The same day our work was
defined after our little meeting with the Parish Priest and his assistant. Work
resumed the following day. As a matter of fact, it was not all that easy due to
many factors. We were given charge of catechism classes and block Rosary
Crusade which we discharged responsibly. We also helped in the distribution of
Holy Communion and instruction of various Pious associations in the Parish. We
equally conducted retreat for the C. B. I. U . and Christian Mothers during
their novenas. We met dedicated
Christians and caring people. Finally, we are grateful to both the Parish
Priest, his assistant and the Parishioners. (Emmanuel E. Anaba and Paul Nwaosuagwu
- St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish Aba). My work at Sacred Heart
Parish Umunkpeyi Nvosi was a joyful one. I conducted morning prayers, went on house
to house visitations, prayed for the sick, formed block rosary centres, helped
the Parish Choir and organized retreat for those who received their first holy
communion and confirmation recently in the Parish. Again, I discovered that
most of aged couples are yet to wed in the church. So I tried my best to make
them aware of the importance of the Sacrament of matrimony. It is then a thing
of joy to note that most of them accepted to wed. Presently their bans are
being called in the church. ( Ajanma Emmanuel - Sacred Heart Parish Umunkpeyi Nvosi). On arrival I was received by the
Parish Priest and spent eight days in the father's house. I commenced my
apostolate at Ss. Peter and Paul Okpuala- Umuosakwu on 10th July 1997. On my
arrival, they received me warmly. During my stay with them, I taught them Cathechism and Christian
doctrines, organised and helped the Choir, conducted morning and evening
services, prepared candidates for different Sacraments (Baptism, Communion,
Confirmation ), encouraged some of them to wed, prayed and visited the
sick/aged and conducted a census. I also noticed that they spend a lot to
maintain the station, some have no love among themselves, they lack good
leaders and some practise polygamy. My stay with them lasted for three weeks
and they really enjoyed and learned a lot from me. After my stay at
Okpuala-Umuosakwu, I came back to the father’s house. I resumed my apostolate
at St. Anthony’s station Orhuru on the 5th August. During my apostolate, I
conducted morning and evening services, taught Cathechism , visited the sick
and aged , strengthened the block Rosary crusade, conducted a census. I noticed
that they were unprepared to receive any Seminarian. (Ifedigbo Charles C. - St.
Jude's Parish Orhuru). This
year's apostolic work brought me to St. Benedict’s Parish Ntigha. The Parish
comprises of six stations including the Parish Centre. Some of the stations are
located some 2 to 4 kilometers away from the Parish Centre. At the Parish, I
was given a warm welcome by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Ben. Oparaji. The first
three days were spent at the Parish Centre. Then on 7th July, 1997, I was
deployed to St. Peter's Umuekpe, about three quarters of a kilometer away from
the Parish Centre. Umuekpe, a village of about 2 square kilometers has a
population of about three hundred inhabitants made up mainly of parents and
students and pupils predominantly Catholics. They are mainly farmers and petty
traders for they have a big market that sits every 4 days and 8 days
respectively. At Umuekpe, the apostolate was made a little bit easier because
of the favourable disposition of the people towards it, particularly the women
folk and the children. Their hospitality was priceless and their attendance at
morning prayers was encouraging and therefore highly commendable. In fact they
provided a very conducive atmosphere for me to work. This Station is without a
station Catechist and I consider the presence of a Catechist there necessary
since it will go a long way to serve the spiritual needs as well as a link
between the people and the priest. My accomplishments include: 30 persons
received the sacrament of Confirmation, building the choir, organizing the
youth, consolidating the block rosary. At the end of the third week at Umuekpe
I was sent to St. Andrew’s Umuogele another Village about 2 kilometers away
from the Parish Centre. At Umuogele, the apostolate was not so easy because of
the people’s ill disposition towards it all. The village Umuogele, a village of
about one and half square kilometers has a population of about 300 (three
hundred) inhabitants made up of parents, aged and young and students and
pupils, predominantly Catholics. The
people are farmers and petty traders by occupation . The church there is
suffering because of the people’s lukewarm attitude towards it. Within the
first few days of my arrival, their response and attendance at morning prayers
and retreats was too cold until after many house to house visitations that made
women and the children to start coming. Though with a station Catechist, yet
the people’s response to spiritual and church matters was on its lowest ebb.
Effort put up to reorganize the youth, the choir, the Mary league and establish
the block rosary in this station was frustrated by the frivolous and nonchalant
disposition of the people. 28 persons received the sacrament of confirmation
(Chrystogonus Amadi at St. Benedict’s
Parish Ntigha). I did my
Apostolic Work at Sacred Heart Parish Umunkpeyi Nvosi. During the period I
worked at three Stations , the stations are St. Theresa’s Amiyi Nvosi, St.
Mary’s Usaka Umuofo and St. Peters Umuhu Nvosi. During the apostolate I
conducted morning prayers, catechism classes, home visitations, choir
practices, moral instructions, among others. At Amiyi Station the response was
quite encouraging and I advised them to keep up the spirit. At St. Peters Umuhu
Nvosi , I discovered that they have sincere love for the service of God and
humanity but need to be properly directed. At Usaka Umuofo, the response was
not quite impressive. In the light of
this therefore I am suggesting that they be given a resident Catechist who
would help to groom them in Catholic doctrine. The apostolate was quite
successful, thus the faithful exhibited sense of maturity (Nwaogwugwu Dozie
Declan at Sacred Heart Parish Umunkpeyi Nvosi). The Parish Priest received me and exercised some act of
welcome. On 4th of July, I went to my first station which was St. Michael
Catholic Church Mgbokonta. I was well received by the people. The problems
which I discovered within that three weeks were : First that the religious
societies here lack qualified leaders which is observed in their attitude
towards some catholic doctrine. Secondly, they need consistent teaching on some
catholic doctrine. Despite these problems, the station has religious societies
which are flourishing well and more devoted Christians. Their attitude towards
Seminarians is highly commendable. My next station of apostolate was St.
Anthony’s Catholic Mission Umuko. Here,
more matured Christian attitude was exercised. The people love seminarians
which I may attribute to their matured christian attitude. Well organized
religious societies are in the place. In spite of these, they still need more
consistent teaching on the catholic doctrine (Bede Ukaegbu- Sacred Heart Parish
Umunkpeyi Nvosi). We were four who
were posted to Holy Family Parish Amiri. The four of us arrived at the Parish
centre on the 2nd of July 1997. We were warmly received by the Parish Priest Rev.
Fr. Donatus Ironuma. It was during lunch with the Father that formal
introductions were made, and the Father geve us our assignment. These
included teaching catechism, conducting
moral and bible instructions for the people, our main work was to prepare the
children for confirmation coming up in September this year. Amiri is made up of seven stations and the Father
posted us to our different stations by picking ballots. I picked St. Patrick’s
R. C. M Umuotiri. I left to my station on Saturday . There are three villages
that make up Umuotiri station namely: Amede, Umuejije and Umuotiri. I did my
work to the best of my ability and during the course of my work I discovered
certain good qualities of the people and some of their weaknesses. I discovered
that the people were hospitable, loving , kind, caring, cordial, friendly, hard
working, cooperative, prayerful,
spiritual, faithful, humane. On the other hand, I noticed that some of the
church members, owing to hardship and difficulties inflicted on them by
pagans go to some of the spiritual churches and to dibia (native doctors) to
obtain solution to their problems. Again they are mainly farmers and some of
them attach so much importance to their work that they rarely have time to
attend church activities or they come late to activities. As such they need
somebody who will always pull them along. (Felix T. Ike at Holy Family Parish
Amiri). Three of us were happily received by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr.
Eugene Eburuche. After receiving us, he briefed us on the nature of our work and the important areas to
emphasize. He encouraged us in our work and wished us a successful apostolate.
He sent us to different stations leaving me to work in the parish centre.
However, the parishioners were happy to
have a seminarian sent to them. They were hospitable and accommodating which
could be expressed in their high grade feeding. I understood them as rural
dwellers having farming as their main occupation and as such considerate in
demands. Moreover, the people love to face responsibility but the means are
lacking. They consider poverty as the cause of their not finishing their church
building. I emphasized on team work and oneness as the secret behind the
success of every organisation. I made it clear to them that love and unity is
the only instrument that will lead them through. Notwithstanding, the existence
of numerous Pentecostal churches is a treat to Catholic faith in the area. I
succeeded in bringing few erring Catholics back to the faith with clarity on
the doctrines. Nevertheless, land dispute among fellow Catholics is predominant
in the area. This ugly situation was caused by lack of love and unity. Such people were referred to
the Parish Priest. Hence growth through mutual cooperation among themselves and
the Church hierarchy were greatly emphasized. Candidates for various sacraments
were prepared. I suggest that the Diocese should organize rallies for the rural
Parishes so as to create the awareness on evangelization and pious societies. I
hope by God’s grace that the seed of the gospel sown in them will grow to bear
much fruit. (Adiele Felix- St. Gall’s Catholic Parish Itu- Ngwa). I worked at St. John’s Catholic
Parish Iheorji, Aba. I was engaged in a general apostolate; prepared candidates
for first Holy Communion, Baptism and other sacraments. Equally, I visited a
lot of pious societies like C. B. I.U, C.C. R . N, C. B. M. etc. and shared
some important and theological topics with them. Furthermore, I visited the sick and those having various
problems as directed by the Parish Priest. Generally, the faithful are very
much practising, though, many are yet to “tighten their belts” due to some
socioeconomic and fundamental problems facing them. Thank God, with His special
grace, I tried my best possible to win more souls for Christ (Bonaventure
Akwarandu - St. John’s Catholic Parish Iheorji). Working
in a church without a church building could be herculian and tasting and
indeed, it takes God to make any headway.
That was the condition in which I worked at St. Luke Catholic Station,
under St Ambrose Parish Ogbor Hill. I must express my profound gratitude to God
for willing such experience for me, and to the people of God in this station
for all their support in all spheres. But my appreciation goes especially to
the Block Rosary Group “Gate of Heaven” for their zeal and enthusiasm; to the
Women Group and to “Zone 3” in general. During this period, I conducted home to
home visitations, had regular morning prayer sessions, visited and prayed for
the sick, helped the dissipated (in body and soul ) materially and spiritually, I had good time too with
the Choir and my contributions here speak for themselves. However, among them,
and apart from the aforementioned problem which has in no small measure
hampered their growth and faith since many take flight to the Parish Centre for
worship, there can still be found little factions, underground wars of hate,
insurrection and suspicion. But with my presence, prayers, advice and relying
on the grace of the Almighty God, there was substantial improvement. I think
that St. Luke's Station needs a Church seriously for it to make any headway
and, the earlier, the better! The people need support financially and otherwise.
(Jephtha Asuoha - St. Ambrose Parish
Ogbor Hill). The parish is thickly populated and requires a lot of
workers dedicated for that matter. Among the assignments entrusted to us
included: home visitation, hospital visitation, visits to various block rosary
crusade centres and pious societies. The parishioners, as a result of the able
leadership of their Priest Priest have some sense of direction and purpose.
However, most of the people that make up the parish are businessmen and women
so that at times, they seem to be more after money and wealth to the detriment
of their spiritual lives. It is interesting to note that the following
organisations/societies distinguished themselves as worthy evangelisers: Catholic Youth Organisation, St. Anthony’s
Guild, C. B. I. U., Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Nigeria. With the help of
these association we were able to come closer to the people and bring the word
of God to them . Generally, I think that the Parish is viable for a proper and
genuine apostolate. (Victor Kanu - Our Lady Of Lourdes Parish Aba). I thank God for his benevolence in
making this year’s apostolic work at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Parish Mbutu
Isiala Ngwa South, a successful one. In my six weeks apostolic work at the
Parish Centre Mbutu, I was able to reestablish the Block Rosary Crusade and
held catechism class for the catechumenates and instructed the adult class. I
made a lot of effort to reach the aged, strengthen those who were lukewarm and
tepid; as well as preaching to those who had lost their faith through my home -
visitations. Nevertheless, it was opportunity for me to have talks with some of
the pious societies and scrutinise their activities. Besides, I enhanced the
performance of mass- servants in the liturgical celebrations. The response was
quite encouraging. (Kenneth Okechukwu Ekekwe at SS Peter and Paul Parish
Mbutu). On arrival for the
apostolic work, the Parish Priest Fr. Gabriel Ezeh and his parishoners welcomed
us happily . We started work immediately by preparing candidates for Holy
Communion, did visitation of pious societies and homes, and handled marriage
problems. We observed that the pious societies like C.B.M, C.B.I.U, and C.C.R.M
, seemed to be listening to their group leaders rather than to the church’s
instructions hence they deviate “somehow” from certain teachings of the church.
However, their immense number contributes largely to the entire population of
the faithful. So we recommend that their actions should be checked by constant
retreat and seminar by Priests. Finally, of special interest to us is the
spirit of charity and hospitality by the parishoners. (Augustine Okoli and
Johnbosco Ohadugha at our Lady of Fatima Parish Umuagbai Aba). The
apostolic work started well. I worked at Holy Family Parish, Amiri. The particular
station I worked in under this parish was Omoba Station. Omoba is a little town
in the southern part of Isialangwa, which as a result or its prominent
geography sustains both the natives and foreigners. Much as I could observe
this was a particular factor that occasionally resulted in dichotomy and clannishness in spite of a common effort
toward the development of the station.
Foreigners say “this is not our station. So why bother us?” And the
natives retort, “but you share the station with us all the same, so we strive
together”. Omoba station is a very large station with a flourishing membership. Observation shows that the people have
a good disposition towards seminarians. Their attendance to evening classes,
morning prayers, and Sunday services was quite encouraging. I was able to
prepare candidates for Holy Communion,
Baptism, and Confirmation . The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Donatus Ironuma, was
very helpful to us, urging the people to turn out en mass for the various
activities. The response, however, was good. (Theodore Alaribe - Holy Family
Parish Amiri). My work in the parish was to help in examining the
candidates for baptism, holy Eucharist, and confirmation. The number was quite
big. It was a very interesting apostolate because it afforded me the
opportunity to improve upon my Igbo Language, coming from and Ibibio speaking
area. Secondly, I felt inspired to see the desire in many adult to receive
these sacraments. This has helped me to reflect on my attitude towards the
sacraments. Thirdly, I helped at masses. I had marvellous experiences working
with Msgr. G. S. Eche, and Fr. Basil Onyia. I admired many things in them. The
spirituality of the parish is very encouraging. There exists in the parish many
societies and everyone is dedicated to his/her own society. I admired a lot
their devotion to our blessed Mother Mary and to the Eucharist. However, their
spirituality should show itself in their daily living. I thank the Ordinary of
the diocese and the Vocations Director for allowing the missionary of St. Paul
the opportunity to work n Aba Diocese. (Emmanuel Akpaidem MSP, at St. Mary's,
Abayi Ariaria, Aba). I was sent to Zone B of the mission which comprises
of St. Theresa's Umuaja and St. John's Okpuala-Ukwu. I stayed about five weeks
here. At St. Theresa's both Catholics and non Catholics were very good to me.
They welcomed me very well and took me as one of them. The day I arrived in
their station, everyone of them was in the Church waiting for me - adults,
youths and children. In my apostolate, I paid more attention to the sick and
old people. I conducted morning devotion every morning from 5.30 am. - 6.30 am.
I taught those preparing to receive the sacraments. I reestablished their Block
Rosary crusade. I taught the choir many songs, I conducted census and paid
visit to each family at least twice before I left. At St. John's Okp-Ala Ukwu, I stayed only one week. The day I
arrived their station they welcomed me very well and work started immediately I
taught them many things concerning the doctrine of the Church. Many attend
morning devotions and evening classes. A good number of the youth has
unfortunately left the Catholic Church. The Catechist is doing a nice job
concerning teaching of the doctrine and other things. ( Ochieze Polycarp Okey at
Umuaja and Okpuala-Ukwu - St. Odilia, Akpaa Osokwa). I did my apostolic work in three stations that make up
Zone B of Holy Trinity Catholic Church Obuzor. They are St. Paul's Catholic
Church Mbutu Umuojima, St. Jude's Catholic Church Umu-oyoro Ngwa and St.
Michael's Catholic Church Ihie-na-Umuduru. My three week stay at St. Paul's
Mbutu Umuojima witnessed a large turnout of the faithful. There was constant
morning prayers and bible lecturing. I also visited the faithful in their
respective homes. At the other two stations my presence was greeted with a
tremendous turnout of the faithful for morning prayers and other related
religious programmes. There should be a resident catechist at St. Jude's
Umuoyoro Ngwa so that activities done in the station would always go on
uninterrupted while the faithful at St. Michael Ihie-na-Umuduru need to be
instructed on the need to actively participate in activities done in the
station ( Chikezie Kingsley, at Holy Trinity Obuzor). I did my apostolic
work in the Vocations Office together with Mr. Jude Okorie. Our duties
consisted in the acquisition of data processing skills. Among other things we
learned how to typeset. We practiced what we learnt on the typesetting and
production of VOCATIONEWS. My prior knowledge of typing and computer operation
helped me a lot. Besides, we participated in liturgical exercises - daily
masses in father's house and devotion to the blessed Sacrament on Thursdays and
Fridays at St. Charles Luanga Catholic Church Essien Town Calabar. We read and
discussed selected topics in Church
History. In our free time we visited the museum where we read and saw
interesting things on slave trade, Mary Slessor, Early Missionaries and other
aspects of Nigerian History. We visited
UNICAL. We had the opportunity to pay NITEL and NEPA bills, sometimes went to
the bank to withdraw money. The people we met in the father's house were kind
to us and cooperative I thank God for
the opportunity given to me. (Paul Okeke, Vocations Office). I did this
year's apostolic work at Our Lady Of Rasom Parish Umuakwa under Rev. Fr. Fabian Nwakorie. The two
stations in which I worked came out en mass to receive me and crowned it with
good feeding, accommodation and responses to morning prayers and catechism
classes. I started Block-Rosary Crusade in both stations and instruments were
bought through their free will donations. Catechism and Bible quiz were held
between the two Block-Rosary station which encouraged mass turn out of
children. Thanks goes to the Chairman of the Alaoji station who made a move by
donating some sum of money for competition and others who promise to be
sponsoring such competition. At Alaoji I introduced the C.B.I.U. members from
C.K.C. Aba for the Sunday bible instruction. Through the grace of God a man who
has remained unwed for many years, is about to do so. At Ihie Station, I formed a choir, Block-Rosary Dance,
lay-readers association, Sunday Bible Instructors society. St. Benedict's
Alaoji is very grateful to the Bishop and their Parish Priest for financial help they rendered to
them to buy a portion of land for the building of their church. (Kenneth
Anakebe - Our Lady Of Rasom Parish Umuakwa). M y apostolate this year
was at St. Mary’s Azumini-Ndoki. I arrived at the Parish on the sheduled day
and was accorded a warm reception by the Parish Priest and his
parishioners. During my stay, we had
morning masses, I taught catechism, revitalised the Block-Rosary and went on
home visitation during which many problems were addressed and solved, and
difficult problems were sent to the Parish Priest. The people of Azumini
praised God in good faith. However, most of them were not enlightened about
christian doctrine. This calls for help; one of which would be having a nursery
school as a means to enlighten and - properly teach their children. Morestill,
is having different organisations that will serve a useful purpose of teaching
the parishioners. (Henry Uzoigwe - St. Mary’s Azumini - Ndoki.)
ABA
DIOCESAN 1997 PRIESTLY ORDINATION AT CHRIST THE KING CATHEDRAL, ABA. The procession to the altar began exactly at
10.10 am and ordination mass started at 10. 20 am. All seminarians, deacons,
and priests together with the ordaining prelate His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. V. V.
Ezeonyia and the ordinands, Rev. Peter Nwedo, Rev. Emmanuel Okwara, Rev.
Kenneth Evurunobi, Rev. Emmanuel Onwutuebe made up the procession train. His
Lordship introduced the mass with a
special greetings. He said that the parents of the candidates had
brought to God a great highly human gift and added “He who has given himself to
God has made the highest offer”. After the introduction all stood up and the
mass continued. The first reading was taken from Jeremaih 1;4-9 and was read by Rev. Mr. Uko Fidelis . The second reading
was taken from the first letter of St. Paul to Timothy 4; 12-16. The gospel was taken from Luke 10; 3-9 and
was read by Rev. Ogbuji Vincent. In his sermon the High Priest Rev. Dr. V.V.
Ezeonyia expatiated more on the ministerial priesthood of Christ. That among
men God appointed men of good will to work for him and for His people. He
enunciated that the priestly ministry of Christ is a holy service which
requires holiness. This was his point of departure. Therefore, if a priest
excommunicates himself from Christ he becomes a holy fool and a good for
nothing. He told them that priestly ministry of Christ is a life of sacrifice,
a whole life submission to the service of Christ. It is a “life of offer” which demands no contradiction . His
Lordship admonished the faithful to encourage priests in their work and help
them to be faithful to Christ and avoid distracting them from duty. Finally, he
said, a priest is bound to following the directives and ordinances of God. Priests
are to live exemplary lives so as to proclaim Christ in their words and deeds
since the best sermon is that of exemplary life worthy of emulation. Christ is
the real model for priests whose footsteps they must follow. Thus, as a life of
sacrifice, priests must sacrifice something consciously, consistently,
fervently and without reservation. They must follow Christ. The ordination
began immediately after the proclamation of the gospel. The Vocations Director Rev. Fr. Dr. I.
Asouzu testified, presented the ordinands and recommended them to be ordained
catholic priests. The candidates were invited one by one and presented to the
church and the Chief Pastor in his cathedral. All the candidates present were
found ready and willing. The entire congregation roared at the presentation of
each candidate. The ordination which consists in the laying of hands on the
heads of the candidates and consecration took place when at 12. 15 noon. The
candidates anointed as priests took up the office of presbyter in full measure.
A priesthood that last forever. The
ordination confirmed them as special ministers of Christ. The entire assembly
of the people of God witnessed the ordination. This was a sacred consecration;
the wearing of Christ’s gab; an imitation of Christ. The reaction and the way
the entire assembly hailed and
glorified the Lord demonstrates how they embrace the priesthood. It was
a happy experience mostly to those who had not witnessed such occasion in their
lives before. For some older priest it could be seen as welcoming more
labourers into God’s vineyard. For his Lordship it could be seen as getting
more sons with whom he would work for the sanctification of the world. To the
newly ordained it could be the end of the race or the beginning of a new life.
However, it is the genesis of a holy new life and the time for one to
distinguish the hood from the priest, define the two words and ready for the journey ahead. The mass
continued with the offertory immediately after the ordination. The way people
carried gifts to the altar shows how they appreciated God’s work and their
gratitude to him. The mass ended at 1.
10 pm. About 40 senior seminarians, a deacon, 18 professed sisters, 47 priests
and an estimate of 2,ooo people were present during the ceremony. (Correspondent:
Cyprian I. Enweremadu).
CHRONICLE
-April 2, 1997: Diocesan Vicariate
Examinations at the bishop's court was successfully conducted.
-April
13, 1997: Vocation Sunday was celebrated in all the parishes of Aba diocese.
The need for prayer for our priests and seminarians was emphasised in all the
parishes. The recommended seminary collection was made.
-May
3, 1997: The Launching of the Book "Biography of Rt. Rev. Msgr. Edward
Kanu Nwafo" by Msgr. Prof. Festus Okafor was very successfully conducted
at C. K. C. compound, Aba
-May
5, 1997: Fathers' Recollection at St. Odilia's Osokwa.
-July
3, 1997: Begin of Aba diocesan 1997 apostolic work for senior
seminarians.
-July
12, 1997: Four deacons of Aba diocesan were ordained priests at Christ The King
Cathedral, Aba.
-August
11, 1997: After their apostolic work in Aba diocese, non-Aba senior seminarians
were accorded a very warm welcome in the bishop's court.
-August 12, 1997, Meeting of bishops of Owerri ecclesiastical province in
Aba diocese.
-August
14 - 15, 1997: The annual get-together and Consultation with His Lordship were
held at Annunciation Seminary, Amaudara
for Aba diocesan seminarians. The bishop emphasised on the need for seminarians
to always aim at excellence and nurse genuine missionary spirit.
4 4
4 4 4
4
FROMTHE
VOCARION'SDIARY
~October 1, 1997: Beginning
of 1997/98. Vocation Year of Aba
diocese
~October
2, 1997: Regional Senior Seminaries reopen.
~October
10, 1997: Aba diocesan spiritual year seminary reopens.
~November 17, 1997: Presbyteral Council
meeting at the priests assembly room C.K.C., Aba.
~December
14-1997: Annual immediate spiritual preparation of Aba diocesan candidates for diaconate
ordination at St. Mary's Propaedeutic seminary Azumini. Rev. Fr. Kevin Atunzu,
Rev. Fr. Innocent Nwokenna, Rev. Fr. Alexander Okonkwor, the Vocations
Director, His Lordship and a lay participant to moderate the recollection.
~December
8, 1997: (Tentative) Investiture of
spiritual year seminarians at St. Mary's Azumini.
~December
14, 1997: Diaconate ordination of
Emmanuel Umeh and Felix Alaribe at Graz Austria.
~January
3, 1997: (Tentative) Diaconate Ordination and Installations at Christ the King
Cathedral Aba. Akwarandu Bonaventure,
Anaba Emmanuel, Asuoha Jephtha, Chilaka Stephen, Kanu Victor, Nnanna Joachim,
Nwagbaoso Magnus, Nwakwuoke Norbert, Nwaobasi Alfred and Nwankpa Augustine have
applied for acceptance into the holy order of deacons. Besides Charles
Okpalaunegbu and Callistus Nwachukwu, our seminarians in Rome, have requested
to be admitted into the holy order of deacons. Those who have requested for installation
as acolytes are: Agbara Felix, Nwambu Paul and Uko Fidelis. Those seeking entry
into the lectorate stand are: Agbara
Dominic, Mbahaotu Paul, Nwaubani Jude,
Akwari Godwin, Ekekwe Kenneth.
~February 2, 1998: First monthly recollection
of Aba diocesan priests.
~Monday,
March 5 - Saturday, March 14, 1998: Annual Retreat of Aba diocesan
priests at Annunciation Seminary Amaudara. The retreat shall be moderated by
Rev. Fr. Charles Ukwe O.P.
~March 1998: Posting of seminarians on
apostolic work after SS 3.
~April
9, 1998: Holy Thursday, The bishop and his priests congregate for
banquet of brotherhood and solidarity in his court.
~April
15, 1998: Vicariate Examination for Theologians of Aba diocese.
~April
16, 1998: Annual Meeting of
seminarians from different seminaries with the Vocations Director at the
chancery to the theme: "Team spirit and successful apostolate in Aba
diocese". Each seminary is to send their delegates to present their paper
on this topic. The guidelines for 1998 apostolic work shall be based on the
papers presented.
~April
26, 1998: Vocation Sunday. The idea of authentic evangelization shall be
explored. We appeal to all parishes to
conduct and remit immediately the recommended seminary collection.
IN
UNION OF PRAYERS WITH OUR SPONSOR: St. Ann
Aba Urban( Nigeria), Lady Knights of St. Mulumba (Nigeria), Chief Sir A.E.N. Izuwah and Family (Nigeria), Mr.
Fabian Ajere (Nigeria), Rene
Scheidegger and Family( Switzerland),
Mrs. Inge Meier (Switzerland), Gruppe Weltkirche (Feldbach, Austria),
Mrs. Sylvia and Dr. Peter Saladin and Family (Switzerland), Mrs. Kunz Margrit
(Switzerland), Mrs. Schaller Martha (Switzerland), Mrs. Bianca Zurkinden
(Switzerland), Mrs. Spahni Ruth (Switzerland), Mr. Holenstein Paul
(Switzerland), Mr. Scherrer Joseph (Switzerland, His Excellency Bishop Johann Weber (Austria), Dechant Johann
Leopold (Austria), Kanonikus Gottfried Lafer (Austria). St. John's
Catholic Community, Muensingen (Switzerland). Sir and Lady Innocent
Okoroama (Nigeria), Mr. Bill Mills
(U.S.A.), Chief and Mrs. Grace Amobi (Nigeria), Mr. Simeon Ubadiniru (Nigeria),
Knights of St. Mulumba, C.K.C. Sub-Council (Nigeria), Rev. Fr. John Vianney
Ijeoma (U.S.A.), Rev. Fr. Kevin Nwosu (Germany), Rev. Fr. Charles Ifemeje
(Germany). We thank our benefactors and
ask God to reward them abundantly. Always pray for your benefactors!! Sponsorship: The vocations ministry is always happy to have
people or groups that are willing to
train a seminarian or support priests. This is an opportunity to show your gratitude
to God in a special way.
CONGRATULATIONS
AND APPRECIATIONS:qWe
congratulate the following priests who have laboured fruitfully in the Lord's
vineyard for 15 years: Rev. Fr. Callistus Onwere and for 5 years: Rev. Fr.
Nathaniel I. Onyedik, Rev. Fr. Cajethan O. Uchendu and Rev. Fr. Jacob E. Ugboaja.
qThe vocations ministry thanks Rt.
Rev. Msgr. B. O. Onwumere and Very Rev. Msgr. C. O. Obiego for the long years
of service in the diocesan board of
examiners.
qHis Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. V. V. Ezeonyia has appointed
Rev. Fr. Callistus Onwere and Rev. Fr. Innocent Nwokenna diocesan examiners. He
has confirmed the appointment of Rev. Fr. Kevin Atunzu as diocesan examiner. We
congratulate them to their new positions.
qThose
admitted into 1997/98 session of the
spiritual year: Afonne Kelechi Amah Victor
I., Dike Marcellinus K., Ndirimoha
Callistus, Nkemnole Stanley M, Nwala Gabriel, Nwankwo Benedict (CCE), Obilor
Chidi, Ofoegbu Johnson U., Okere Ephraim (CCE), Okoye Jude I., Udah Hyacinth
I., Uzegbu Samuel(CCE). qSeminarians
promoted to First Year Philosophy 1997/98 session: Anunba Joachim, Chigbu John, Chikezie Kingsley, Nwachukwu Innocent
(CCE), Nwachukwu Onyedikachi, Nwachukwu Emmanuel, Nwankwo Samuel, Ochieze
Polycarp, Okeke Paul, Okorie Jude,
Onuha Francis, Onuoha Ignatius (CCE), Onyirimba O. Emmanuel (CCE), Ukonu
Godfrey, Ugwu Peter Damian (CCE), Egesigwe Martin (CCE), Emeanuli Davis (CCE).
ON
STUDIES ABROAD: Mr. Philip Mary Okorochukwu has joined our seminarian
Mr. Charles Ikeocha at California, U.S.A. for their seminary formation. The
Vocations Ministry wishes them God's guidance.
Farewell: The
following seminarians have left Aba diocese and we wish them good luck in all
their future endeavours: Uzoma Franklin,
Paul Nwaosuagwu, Francis Ebere. CONSULTATION WITH THE VOCATION DIRECTOR All
who desire to speak with
the vocations director can do so every last Saturday of the month (Clean up!).
The venue is the C.K.D. Chancery and the time is from 7.30 am - 4 pm. His address is P.M.B. 7526, Aba, Abia State,
Nigeria. Tel. 087- 220704. The minimum academic qualification for admission
into Aba diocese is five credits at a sitting at SSSC. The five credits have to
include English and Maths and should be obtained from a reputable
institution.
Articles for
publication in the Vocationews should be submitted early enough to the
Vocations Director for editing and typesetting. MEMENTO MORI - OUR DEAD: Death has
occurred of Rev. Fr. Charles Nwamagioha
(DEE CHA). He died on September 3, 1997 and was buried at Christ The King
priests' cemetery on September 25, 1997. Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Onyebarachi died on
October 28, 1998 and was buried at Aba
diocesan priests' cemetery on November 7, 1997. May their souls rest in
peace.
FROM OUR MAILBOX/DONATIONS: Donations were received for the
training and support of seminarians from Mr. Simeon Ubadiniru (N20,000), Lady
Knights of St. Mulumba (N15,000), Knights of St. Mulumba, C.K.C. Sub-Council
(N12,000). Rev. Fr. John Vianney Ijeoma sent his greetings from U.S.A. with a
donation of (N2,250). The vocations ministry thanks the donors for their
generosity. I write to thank you and your diocese for the
wonderful way you kept and sent me off during my inter-diocesan apostolic work.
I registered with deep sorrows the passing away of Fr. Dee-Cha, my very good
father and friend during the apostolic work ( David Isiege).
PRAYER Prayer is the key that unlocks all doors.
Those who lead a life of
prayer
make godly their lives.
But how can we pray
inspite of fleshy
distractions?
Is it
possible to call on God
despite our material
possessions?
To pray all
we need do
is to keep aside all
distractions
Focus
completely on Him our attention
And heartily call him upon
He looks
forward always
to seeing his people call
him
Call him
upon today
And have all your problems
solved. (Gabriel
C. Nwala).
If in the dark he
kneels to pray...
He really
prays.
Chinese Proverb
The Vocations
Ministry wishes you a very Happy Christmas and lots of God's blessings in the
year 1998.
¦
¦
Assisting Editors for this edition: (Paul Okeke and
Jude Okorie, Cyprian I. Enweremadu).
I***************************************************************************
My this year apostolic work took place
at Holy Family Parish Amairi, under the charge of Rev. Fr. Donatus Ironuma.
Amairi is located at the centre between Omoba, Itungwa and Ohuru villages under
Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State. Amairi is a big Parish
comprising of seven(7) stations with the exclusion of the parish centre.
I worked at the centre of Amairi
Community. It is a christian community made up of 3 clans consisting of few
protestantees and dominated by Catholics of
one church though, not so big but the number ranged 95% exceeding the
prostestantees and pagans.
My first day of arrival at Amairi was
very funny and questionable, in fact
that I tied my loggages on the bicycle with Indian Rope, people were
asking are you coming for holidays I laughed and answered, the salvation is no
more beyond reach, it is near even in our kitchens. On reaching Amairi, behold
the people of God with their Parish Priest Donatus Ironuma working in their new
building church, both men, women, girls, boys and even the infants. They were
plastering the floor, some were bringing the red mud soil from the pit, some
fetching water, some gravate, some clay sands, some cements, some mixing and
some plastering. I greeted them and
they recognized me as their son, without knowing what I have come for. Untill
the following sunday. We were then distributed to different stations.
On sunday the sermon and the reading
that father preached, made them realized that their son and accepting them are
more dignified rather than accepting visitors and rejecting their sons, that
such brings wrath and hate among them.
The Parish Priest Donatus Ironuma is
the one-somebody can reliegh on . He made them
to be in love and co-operating, and whose they will not pray for his
transfer. Father received us and care for us throughout our stay.
Within the weeks of my Apostolic Work I
thought them the following:
a. Catetism classes, for those in first Holy
Communion, Baptism and Confirmation.
b. Inspite of that, I made them to understand
and live Jesus kind of life, of love and unity, peace without jealousy or
hatred.
c.
I made them also to understand that living in this harmony will bring God’s
reign of Graces, Blessing and protection among them and their children
elsewhere.
d.
Also I made them to realized the core of this: that proper training of their
children from early stage will help them and make the community to develop and
live this life of love. Since they are only Catholics in majority.
e.
Therfore, in my work I thought, I called up the fallen Blockrosary and made it
strong both in the station and Parish. I thought them the importance of prayer
in the Rosary, also Catholic faith and good moral and behaviours are thought.
f.
I made visitation to houses for both Catholic and non-catholics and seeing the
sick.
THEIR
GOOD AND WEAK POINTS:
Amairi people are good in receiving
people mainly the visitors. In knowing
and handling Amairi people, one need patients, love and inteligent and an
examplary before you can pull them out, otherwise, you cannot get them. And
hence you get them and they know you , they will be responding to, in what ever
you asked them to do in large number. There are many devoted ones there.
Many are spiritually weak and may not listen to the one that may
bring them up. They do not devote their time in ordinary days to spiritual
activities except few. They have societies like: C.M.O.,C.W.O.,C.P.I.U.,C.B.M.,
Sacredheart, Legion of Mary , Maryleague, Blockrosary, but few responds in C.
B. I.U. and C.B.M. Farm work distract their spiritual activities.
Some are enemies of progress, who tries
to bring down people in their progressing mode, and too full of jealous and
hatred and inflicts different sorts of illness to their people.(Ekpendu David -
Holy Family Parish Amairi)
*******************************************************************************
********************************************************************************
I
was posted at St. Benedict’s Catholic Parish Eziama Ntigha. The Parish has five
out - stations and the centre making it six and I worked at the Parish centre.
They received me warmly and I spent six
weeks there.
I conducted daily monrning prayer before
the morning mass, visited the homes of the faithful, prayed for the sick and
prepared condidates for comfirmation which they have received.
In their different families, there are always problems because of they
still have polygamist families were the senior wife will like the junior one to
go, and the junior one will like the senior one to go. And this have deprived
many of them from perticipating fully in all the sacraments of the church.
Their response to church activities is
fair, becuase the people to instruct them on what to do is there. In there
church, there are many pious organisations existing like C.M. O, C. W.O. , C.B. I.U. and the block rosary
crusade, the youth, the marry league girls.
One of the problens there is that some of them christians still involve
themselves in the things like enemity, gossip, disobedient and some of the
families has taken it upon them selves to tell the seminerians what to do and
where not to go.
These issues I discovered was honestly fought against. I
told them what the church and God needs from them for their salvation. I also
told them how important it is that they lift the old self. I explained to them
the importance of thanks-giving, especially for the lifes they are enjoying,
because it is the free gift of God. The important of perticipating fully in the
sacraments of the church like being baptised and receiving the holy communion
also the importance of confession, being, needed in the church and lastly the
importance of comfirmation.
Also I talked about coming out
for the activities that is going on in the church and be regular and punctual
also to the active and not be water pipe or a sign board which only points to a
place and will not reach that place, to live their lives as christians, to live
an examplary life. Also to preach Christ wherever they are, through their talks
and characters, to reconcile with others whenever they have misunderstanding so
as to be able to ask our heavenly Father to “forgive us our trespasses as we
forgive our neighbours” in the Lord’s prayer.(Onyenso Peter - St. Benedict’s
Catholic Parish Eziama Ntigha.)
********************************************************************************
In view of the six weeks apostolate.
I spent three weeks at each station, thereby covering two stations each, vis
St. Augustine’s Catholic Chuurch Umuezeukwu and St. Anthony’s Mbubo - Nsulu
under St. Jeseph’s Umuosu - Nsulu, in Isiala- Ngwa North L.G.A.
At St. Augustine’s Catholic Church Umuezeukwu which is among the smallest stations in Aba diocese, needs seriouslly an evangelisation , a forum and an orientation towards