Back to Home
Page: http://www.frasouzu.com/
Vocationews VOL.
8 NO. 2 APRIL - OCTOBER 1998
THE
EFFECTS OF COMMUNITY LIFE OF PRIESTS ON THE PARISH/APOSTOLATE
(Fr.
Okonkwor I. Alexander)
What
community life is to priests, is what family life is to lay people. Thus the
church upholds a community life for
priests based on the one priesthood. (Ad Gentes, 16). She favours joint
apostolic work and especially joint evangelization, which experience has shown
to be difficult if undertaken by individuals alone (Lumen Gentium, 28).
Therefore, when several priests are employed in the same parish, it is
advisable that they live in the same house and form a single community. “It is
also useful to form communities of priests who work in different but
neighbouring parishes” (Presbyterorum Ordinis, 8). Therefore fraternal union of
the members rooted and based on charity, is to be an example of universal
unification or reconciliation in Christ. The more intense this fraternal love,
the greater the credibility of the message they proclaim and the more visible
the mystery of the church, as the sacrament of the union of humankind with God
and of its members among themselves.
The community life of priests is
as important as the apostolic life because through it each member has a sense
of co.-responsibility - responsibility for the faithfulness of the other; each
one contributes to a serene climate of sharing life, of understanding and of
mutual help. Each is more attentive to the moments of fatigue, suffering,
isolation or lack of motivation in others, each offers support to those who are
saddened by difficulties and trial. The Council Fathers remind us that
“Community life means not merely living physically together but sharing on the
spiritual, pastoral and human levels. Thus priests who form a community should
pray together; they should exchange useful information and plan and evaluate
together their apostolic activities; they should help each other in cultural updating;
they should help each other financially; even having to some extent their goods
in common, according to the Bishop’s guidelines; they should willingly take
recreation together; they should help and encourage each other in difficult
situations, in times of weariness or illness, and especially when problems with
one’s vocation arise; when necessary, they should not be afraid to give
fraternal advice” (P.O. 8). Community life is inseparable, both to our state of
life and apostolate. Now, the question is , how can we achieve this in order to
attend effective evangelization in Aba Diocese? Bearing in mind that a tree can
never make a forest. The work of evangelization in Aba Diocese is not an easy
task, therefore there is absolute need for us priests to live together, in
order to fight the common enemy, and in that manner achieve a common goal, that
is effective evangelization.
Besides the advantages of community life
to the individual priests who participate in it, it can bring the following effects in our different parishes and
apostolate. By the community life of priests, the lay faithful or parishioners
will learn how to live by example and as authentic witness in their own states
of lives. According to
According to the Council Fathers “the
body is unity” and does not do away
with the diversity of its members. If this council teaching is strictly adhered
to, it would certainly bear fruit not only for the relevant community of priests
but more so for the Christian family at large. Hence, community life of priests
will enhance unity notwithstanding its difficulties among Christ’s faithful.
For instance, it will eliminate all sort of discrimination existing in
different religious organization in our parishes today. This mentality often
has its origin in some presbytery due to inability of some priests to
accommodate their fellow priest(s) in their parishes. Consequently, no matter
your sermon or charism, it will indirectly affect the leadership or
administration in that parish, because the parishioners may not take seriously
to instructions given to them by a divided presbytery. “Priests should therefore unite themselves
with Christ in acknowledging the Father’s will and in the gift of themselves on
behalf of the flock committed to them (Presbyterorum Ordinis, 14). (Taken from
a talk given by Rev. Fr. Alexander Okonkwor at the monthly recollection of Aba
diocese).
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
NEWS FROM ANNUNCIATION SEMINARY AMAUDARA.
The seminary hosted very successfully the annual retreat of the priests of the
diocese from March 9 - 13, 1998. During this period, the rector was able to
present the seminary to the fathers the way he sees it. Besides , the fathers
were able to see things for themselves. The fathers welcomed the idea that more
has to be done by the parishes to help the seminary in some of her major
projects. They saw the need to undertake directly, as individual parishes or as
a group, the construction of some of the major projects in the seminary.
Besides, the need to build awareness in the parishes concerning the key
position of the junior seminary in the growth of the diocese was underline The
rector revealed his plans to radically revitalise diverse facets of seminary
life, beginning with the inculcation of correct seminary values in the
seminarians. He highlighted the importance of considering the seminary as a
place of formation for future priests and not a training ground for good
Christians. He noted that the idea of allowing students without express desire
to become priests into the seminary might in the long run not auger well with
the aims establishing the seminary as a place for formation for future
priest.
NEWS
FROM ST. MARY’S PROPAEDEUTIC SEMINARY AZUMINI
The
Seminary had her third investiture ceremony on the 6th of December 1997. For
this joyous occasion to take place, extensive preparations were made including
a two days retreat moderated by the Rector Rev. Fr. Stan Achoromadu and Rev.
Fr. Lawrence Agorchukwu respectively. In the mass which started at about 9. 00
am, concelebrated with the Rector Rev. Fr. Stan. Achoromadu, Rev. Fr. Innocent
I. Asouzu (Vocation Director), Rev. Fr. Emeka Okite and Rev. Fr. Law.
Agorchukwu, the principal celebrant, his Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. V. V. Ezeonyia
in his homily addressed two key issues:
Obedience and Love. He admonished the seminarians to be obedient. He
sees obedience and love as efficacious tool that embody other law in the
church; since obedience and love are imbued with humility, purity and chastity.
In this sense, he maintained that they should be serious with their vocation as
“close members of Christ” in the manner of the twelve apostles. The following
thirteen seminarians were clothed that day: Afonne Kelechi, Amar Victor, Dike
Marcellinus, Ndirimoha Callistus, Nkemnole Stanley, Nwala Gabriel, Nwankwo
Benedict (C.C.E), Obilor Chidi, Ofoegbu Johnson, Okere Ephraim (C.C.E), Okoye
Jude, Udah Hyacinth, and Uzegbu Samuel (C.C.E). At the end of the mass, the
Bishop congratulated the seminarians by shaking hands with them. The Rector on
behalf of the other priests thanked the Bishop and congratulated the
seminarians. Furthermore, the seminarians in joyful mood expressed their
gratitude to the bishop for his paternal care and love. In the same vain they
thanked the Vocation Director and the team of their formators for their care
and support. (Udah Hyacinth I. St.
Mary’s Propaedeutic Seminary Azumini).
1997 APOSTOLIC WORK REPORT
(continues): I was posted to St. Pius X
Parish Obohia but I did my apostolic work at the station Our Lady of
Fatima Akwete. The Parish Priest received us very well at the parish centre and
I was also well welcome in the station. Only a few faithful attended morning
prayers. They seem to be more enthusiastic in their business affairs. Because
of this problem they find it difficult to cooperate with their parish priest
and even seminarian. I observed that
they don’t know catholic doctrine. In fact, if all the youth in that station
and parish will give time for religious activities to enhance a proper learning
of the catholic doctrine and teachings, things would be well in that
place. (Oguguo Vincent. N. St. Pius X
Parish Obohia).
We were six seminarians that were sent to
Nvosi Parish. We arrived on 2nd July, 1997. The Parish Priest welcomed us well.
Hence, he told us that we were going to spent three weeks in each station. I was posted first to St. Patrick’s Catholic
Station Ntigha. They received me well and I tried my best to instruct them.
When the three weeks were completed, I was sent to the next station by name St.
Michael’s Catholic Station Umuabali. At Umuabali, I also conducted morning
prayers, visited the members of the station and highlighted to them the
importance of prayer. I equally conducted evening classes, teaching them how to
say the Rosary. I visited the members of the choir. I organised block rosary
for them . Lastly, I organised a three days retreat for them. (Ukonu Godfrey-
Nvosi Parish.)
The apostolic work started on the 2nd of
July. We reported on the same day and were warmly received by the parish priest
and the parochial vicar. The parish priest assigned us some work to do which
has conducting census for the parish as its main thrust. We in conjunction with
the priests organized a revival retreat for members of Queen of Peace Christian
Mothers Association. We visited all the Pious Societies and gave them words of
encouragement. Since members of the C.C.D. handle catechism classes, we paid
them visits to supervise their work.
On Sundays the Parish is thickly
populated and as such many Masses are said with the help of some Priests who
visit on weekends. To help meet the accommodation needs during masses the
Parish is currently undertaking the expansion of her old church. The Parish is
teeming with many Pious Societies full of zeal for “the fathers house”. This
apostolic work period was really unique and we thank God for guiding us all
through the periods and for offering us the opportunity of coming in contact
with inspiring people. (Augustine Nwankpa & Joachim Nnanna)
I
was assigned by the Parish Priest to work in these stations: Holy Family
Catholic Church Umuawa and St. Stephen’s Catholic Church Okpuala. I spent two
weeks in each of the stations. The places are Pentecostal dominated, and our
Catholics face a lot of problems from them. I conducted morning prayers with
them and explained to them some of the issues they raised. These include: why
we should confess our sins to the priest, why
we do infant baptism, where it is in the bible that we should say the
rosary and others. I started block rosary in two of the stations. I visited the
sick and aged. (Idimogu Vincent Okey-
St. Peter Claver’s Catholic Parish Umueleghele.)
I worked in St. Augustine’s Station Avor
and C.K.C. Station Eziama all in St. Benedict’s Catholic Parish Eziama Ntigha.
Both Stations received me warmly and each day I spent with them seemed to be a
solemnity. They care. In both stations I conducted daily morning prayers,
visited the homes of the faithful, prayed for the sick and prepared candidates
for confirmation-which they have received. I also helped their various choir.
The people (all of them) have much confidence in a Seminarian’s prayer and
demanded it always. They love and care for seminarians and the clergy but
unfortunately these virtues are not extended to their neighbours. “Like the
dear that yearns for running stream”, many of them go about looking for
non-catholic prayer houses to solve their problems. They live in fear. All of
them, children inclusive, believe they have enemies who are aggressively after
their lives and progress. Worst still most of these enemies are Christians-
even Catholics; and the so called enemies have their own enemies whom they
fear. Fear has replaced hope, gossip has become a permanent substitute for
dialogue, brotherly love is strictly restricted to family members alone;
obedience is seen as weakness while patience is too abstract to be comprehended
and exercised towards relations. In fact, they seek and pray for long life and not
good life. Before I left them there were signs of positive changes as disputes
are now being settled. (Ihesiaba Cajetan- St. Benedict's Parish Eziama Ntigha.)
The Parish Priest gave me the maximum
support that I needed for a successful
apostolic work. He did his best to see that I didn’t lack anything. The
Parishioners here had a sense of hospitality. I was assigned by the Parish
Priest to address members of the Pious
Societies, organize Catechism classes for candidates preparing for first
Holy Communion and Baptism and also to
assist at mass. I carried out these assignments as directed by the Parish
Priest. I observed that an encouraging percentage of the faithful here are
doing their best with regard to the demands of the Christian life. I observed also
that there are few block rosary crusades and many parents don’t allow their
children to attend block rosary crusade. Many parishioners here don’t take the
sacrament of reconciliation very seriously, many young men and women feel
reluctant to join any pious society in the church, many of them still patronize
the Pentecostal prayer houses around and there is lack of punctuality to
religious exercises especially to the Eucharistic celebration. (Anyanwu Kelechi- Nativity of Our Lord Parish Ohabiam.)
I
was assigned to give catechetical instructions, visitation of different groups,
societies, and associations, within the Parish. St. Peter’s, being a new parish
yet to be inaugurated, is developing rapidly, thanks to the untiring effort of
the priest in-charge and the parishioners' unity of purpose. I carried out the
assignment given to me with utmost dedication. During my work there, about four
hundred candidates were confirmed by the Bishop, whereas , about one hundred
and seventy candidates received First Holy Communion. I observed that, the
various societies and associations are putting in their best, both spiritually
and for the development of the Parish. (Uchechukwu Okoye- St. Peter’s Eziukwu)
I
arrived at the first Station on 6th of July 1997 and ended on the 27th of July
1997. I arrived at the 2nd place where I did my apostolic work on 27th of July
1997, and ended on 6th August 1997. They received me very well at both
stations. A good number of families of these two Stations showed me much
concern. This is my first apostolic work and it is a successful one. The Parish
Priest welcomed me and in fact, gave me the necessary disposition I needed for
a very successful apostolate. Through the help of God, I did my work devoutly
and people gave me their maximum cooperation. (Felix O. Ezeoke - St. Jude’s
Catholic Church Ohuru.)
We
were three seminarians posted to St. Gall’s Catholic Church Itungwa, the parish
priest welcomed us with joy. He instructed us on the areas and methods of work
to be carried out. The parish has seven stations and grouped into three zones.
I was posted to Ikala zone which comprises of the following; Akanu Okpulor,
Mbutuichi and Ikala station respectively. I worked for two weeks in each
station. I arrived at Akanu Okpulor on 3rd July, during this period, I made
home visitations, conducted census, prepared candidates for baptism,
confirmation, marriage and other sacraments. The faithful participated actively in morning prayers, catechism
classes and other religious activities. The station is constituted of a
family and few members from outside.
They are very small and with big responsibilities. Really this St. Dominic’s
Akanu Okpulor has series of problems such as lack of a capable catechist to
teach the doctrines of the church. The
cases of mushroom churches surrounded them and spiritual directions are needed.
I moved to Christ the King Catholic Church (C.K.C.) on 17th July 1997. The
faithful responded positively. They need a serious and capable catechist to
live and nurse them. So that, with constant retouching of the doctrines they
will know more about Catholic faith. I finally worked at St. Gabriel station
Ikala from 30th to the end of the Apostolic work. They have the same problem
with the above mentioned stations.
(Stephen Nwala C. -St. Gall’s Parish Itungwa.) I did my 1997 apostolic work at Umuoha (a zone under Mbutu Ngwa
Parish).
Since
the priest assigned to take care of
that zone was yet to pack in, I went back to my home and reported back a
week later. On my return, the priest asked me to work at Amapu Station. I did
some work which included conducting catechetical classes, teaching the choir,
visiting the sick and the elderly , and instructing the pious societies. In the
course of my apostolic work, I discovered that the people of Amapu are peace
loving, God fearing, charitable, benevolent and zealous. My teachings and instructions helped to
encourage and strengthen their faith in the catholic church. However, during
the period of the apostolic work, I went to the hospital to remove my appendix
which disturbed me. (Nwankwo Anthony C.-Mbutu Ngwa Parish)
I did my work at St. Mary’s Station
Oberete and St. Joseph’s Station Obokwe. I lived at Oberete station for the six
weeks and I attended the work at Obokwe from Oberete . On my arrival to the
station, there was sign of readiness to host a Seminarian. The C.W.O. members
brought me all I needed for the work. I got myself involved in morning prayers
before the daily morning masses (Fr. Ajonu who is in-charge of the Catholic
Secondary School near the station celebrates mass for them every day),
catechism classes, for those who received the various sacraments. Home visitations, visitation of pious
societies which were mainly the Bible Societies, I also handled the Choir and
taught them some new songs.
My work at Obokwe was same as at Oberete.
The few catholic families were visited each time I came around. The conduct of
the faithful in these stations is encouraging, but some of them do not live out
what they hear in the church. They lack vocations to the priesthood. Much
effort is needed to liberate them from their spiritual problems. (Osuagwu C.
Benneth- Holy Trinity Parish Obuzor.)
I
worked at St. Mary’s Abayi Ariaria Aba under Msgr. G. S. Eche who is
fatherly and Fr. Basil Onyia. We were five seminarians, two claretians, one
seminarian of Missionary of St. Paul, Abuja and two diocesan seminarians.
Myself and the St. Paul’s Missionary seminarians worked at the centre. After
two weeks work began by examining candidates for first holy communion, baptism
and confirmation -over 1,060 candidates in all. Their missionary commitments
and sociability are very much commendable. (Norbert C. N. Nwakwuoke-St. Mary’s
Parish Abayi Ariaria)
I
arrived the Cathedral parish, my place of assignment, in the afternoon the same
day. Mr. Onah Bredan -the Spiritan I worked with, arrived few seconds earlier.
Both of us met at the gate. In the evening shortly after compline, the
Administrator intimated us on our duties. Five priests were resident in the
cathedral parish at the time. As a matter of fact, C.K.C. is a very big place. It is thickly populated,
always busy. People flock in for prayer and other spiritual exercises. Four
masses are celebrated on the weekdays and nine on Sunday. There is one out
station . Rosary and vespers are said in common on Sunday evening with
Benediction. There is Rosary procession on the evening of the first Sunday of
the month. We helped out in the
distribution of Holy Communion, catechism classes, visitation and instruction
of the various pious associations. We equally conducted retreat for many pious
societies during their novenas. Equally, we conducted morning prayer on
Sundays. I remain grateful to all the
members of the Church. I learned much from them. I like them. I thank God for
them and pray Him to crown their efforts with success. (Nwaobasi Alfred-C.K.C.
Aba)
The
catholic Christian faithful in Akpulu are doing the universal church proud.
Thanks to the deep theological insight and initiatives of the parish priest ( Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael
Okwaraoha), they are happily working hard to finish all that is necessary to
have their gigantic church dedicated.
The organization of marriage ceremonies is another point of interest. Depending
on agreement, the couples wed in the church first, after which they proceed to
fulfil the traditional wedding rites the same day, or they celebrate the traditional wedding and the
bride stays back in her father’s house till the ecclesiastical requirements are
fulfilled the following day. This saves them a lot economically and greatly
forestalls the problem of having unwed couples in the church. Flowing from the
diocesan guidelines on burial ceremonies, the people have learned and are
upholding a decent Christian burial that is better witnessed than told. The faithful, notwithstanding their serious
memberships in the different ecclesiastical societies lack knowledge of
fundamental Catholic doctrines and teachings. There are many civil cases that
try to infiltrate into the church community. I was seriously engaged with
catechizing the people at different levels of human grouping. I helped the
choir and instructed different societies in the church. I conducted retreats to
conclude the apostolic work. The
faithful at Akpulu are advancing in their commitment to the Christian faith. If
they are blessed with concerned catholic Christian educators, the world, the
church and Christ will jubilate with them. (Uko Fidelis-St. James Cath. Parish
Akpulu- Orlu Diocese - inter-diocesan apostolic work)
St. John’s Odar is a small catholic
community of migrant fishermen and farmers with a population of about 70
faithfuls. My primary assignment in the
area included, teaching of catechism, conducting of morning and devotional
prayers, visiting the sick and praying for them and winning of souls from the
traditional religion to Catholicism. Five candidates were prepared for
confirmation, six for first Holy Communion, ten for adult baptism and a couple
for the sacrament of matrimony. Attendance to catechetical instruction was
unfortunately irregular due to the inhabitants’ active involvement in rice
production and agricultural engagement that kept children away from school and
adults away from the church and other social engagements. Few hours were spent
helping the young ones in the village school founded by the church. Only a
teacher handles the 3 classes of the school. Relationship between both pagans
and Christians was very cordial except for an occasional molestation of the
young Christians (especially girls ) by pagan masquerades. The settlers both
Christians and pagans were large hearted. They also showed great zeal for the
gospel manifested in the completion of the seminarians-house and latrine within
a short time. A two day retreat/crusade was organised to mark the end of the
apostolate. Attendance by both pagans and Christians was very commendable. The
church could reap bountifully if the school system of evangelization and
medical service are vigorously pursued in the area. St. James Iyi-Aja is a small
Christian community of migrant fishermen and farmers of about 35
faithfuls. Three days were spent in the
community during which I taught
catechism visited the sick and prayed for them. The pagans were in the majority
but the relationship between the Christians
and pagans was very cordial. Syncretism seems to be evident in the area and
this could be checked through the school system of evangelization, vigorous
catechetical instructions and the Christian medical service. (Felix I
. Agbara- Aguleri Otu Parish- Onitsha
Achdiocese - inter-diocesan apostolic work)
I was received on arrival by
the parish priest, Rev. Fr. C. Ubawike and some officials of C.W.O., C.M.O.,
Mary League Girls and Catholic Youths Organization. The parish is densely
populated and I started work immediately without wasting any time as His
Lordship, the Rt. Rev. Dr. V. V.
Ezeonyia was to come on pastoral visit within that time. Thus, I taught the
catechumens catechism. Novenas, lectures and seminars were held. About 500
catechumens were prepared for Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation. We
visited the sick and the needy in their respective homes and prayed for them.
Holy communion was given to those who needed it. We encouraged them to be
steadfast in their faith. The bereaved
were also visited and consoled. We visited block rosary centres, different
pious societies and organizations. Altar boys association was re-organised and
new members admitted. They were reminded of the need of seriousness and
dedication in their duty. I equally worked at St. Joseph’s Catholic Mission
Abayi Nchokolo for two weeks. During the time of the apostolic work, I
conducted morning prayers and Sunday services. The faithful were equally taught
catechism. I visited the sick and the needy. I observed that most of the
faithful in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Abayi Nchokolo have decamped to other
Pentecostals churches. However, they need a very strong catechist with a
family. (Akwari Godwin - St. John’s Catholic Church, Iheorji)
I
did my apostolic work at SS Peter and Paul Mbutu Ngwa. I arrived at the parish
on 2nd of July 1997. I worked at two stations that is St. Francis
Umuapu/Umuakpor and Holy Trinity Ichi. At St. Francis, I arrived on 2nd of
July, 1997. And I was received by the members of the station council. I taught
catechism classes, visited every house, organised members of Legion, consoled the sick, talked to the
C.B.I.U. Numerous cases of illegitimate children abound. Many boys and girls do
not know who their fathers are. (Casmir
Uzosike C. - SS Peter and Paul Mbutu Ngwa. )
I
was posted to Good Shepherd Catholic Mission Umuvo, a substation under St.
Michael’s Umuacha where I spent three weeks. During my stay at Umuvo the
members came out for morning prayers
and other activities. More so, many received the sacrament of baptism, both
adult and children. The remaining three weeks were spent in Owerrinta still a
substation under St. Michael’s Catholic Mission Umuacha. Both station treated
me fine, together with the priest who exhibited high sense of love and concern
for seminarians. I suggest that the Catechists of the mission should be
educated on their role to the church and duty to the faithful. (Uwandu N.
Anthony - St. Michael’s Catholic Mission Umuacha.)
CHRONICLE
December
6,1997: Third investiture ceremony at St. Mary's Propaedeutic Seminary,
Azumini.
December
14, 1997, Diaconate Ordination of Emmanuel Umeh and Felix Alaribe at Graz,
Austria.
December 14 - 21, 1997: Diocesan annual retreat for
candidates to diaconate ordination. There was a daily moderation of the retreat
with different topics by different moderators: Characteristics of Authentic
Evangelical Service by Rev. Fr. Dr. Kevin Atunzu; Living Together as Clerics -
Joys and Sorrows by Rev. Fr. Alexander. Okonkwo; What Women Expect of a Cleric
Today by Mrs. P. N. Atatah; Content and Implications of Cannons 1040 - 1049 by
Rev. Fr. Dr. Innocent Nwokenna; Aba Diocesan Spirit by the Vocations Director
Rev. Fr. Dr. Innocent Asouzu. The retreat ended on Sunday 21st Dec. 1997 with a
conference by the bishop in which he officially, pronounced the date and venue
of the diaconate ordination as 3rd January 1998, at Holy Family Parish Amiri.
He also urged the prospective deacons to further their preparations for the
ordination in good spirit. (Nwagbaoso Magnus C.)
January
3, 1998: Diaconate Ordination and Installations at Holy Family Parish Amiri.
The following were ordained deacons:
Akwarandu Bonaventure, Anaba Emmanuel, Asuoha Jephtah, Chilaka Stephen,
Kanu Victor, Nnanna Joachim, Nwagbaoso Magnus, Nwakwuoke Nobert, Nwankpa
Augustine and Nwaobasi Alfred. Those installed into the office of Acolyte were:
Agbara Felix, Nwambu Paul and Uko Fidelis. Those installed lectors were: Agbara
Dominic, Akwari Godwin, Ekekwe Kenneth,
Mbahaotu Paul and Nwaubani Jude Mary. In his homily, his Lordship
charged them to open up to the demands of their ministry and embrace the Lord’s
service with some docility and joy. He furthermore, used the example of Sampson
and Delilah to caution them in their vow of Celibacy. About 50 Priests, 25 Professed Sisters, 2 deacons, 55 Seminarians
and an estimate of more than 2, 000 people were present during the ordination
ceremony (Kenneth Ekekwe).
February
21, 1998: Posting of seminarians on Apostolic work after SS3. The following
seminarians were officially assigned to pastoral duties in Aba diocese: Anuonye Joseph Chiazokam, Igenu Ositadimma
Jeremiah, Ofoegbu Donatus Chika, Nwala Emmanuel Chuka, Okoro Chukwuemeka
Chinedu, Njiofor Justin Chukwubude.
March
9 - 13, 1998: Annual Retreat for priests of Aba diocese: The retreat was
moderated by Very Rev. Fr. Leo Ezeji C.S.Sp. He built his talk around the
specialities of the priestly vocation. Within this context, he highlighted a few important points:
"A priest is chosen as a mouth piece of God and acts in the person of
Christ and must model his life after the eternal high priest. The vocation to
the priesthood is an exalted vocation and we must be grateful for it . We must
be proud of our priesthood, we should never go anonymous or deny our
priesthood. We must be prepared to bear witness for Christ in the world of
today. Christ needs us to do his work of salvation. Our task cannot be carried
out without deep rooted conviction as priests of Christ. The fact that we are
called in spite of our unworthiness should fill us with humility and enable us
get rid of 'priest of God mentality': This mentality is the one that makes us
full of ourselves and unduly proud of our achievements and priesthood. It is
not through academic degrees but through the power of Jesus that we convince
people. The people are looking towards us to show them the way but we often
mislead them because we have no faith in Jesus Christ ourselves." The
presbyterium of Aba diocese thanks Fr. Ezeji C.S.Sp. for his kind words.
April
9, 1998: Cathedriaticum. Aba diocese witness, yet again, a colorful solemn
ceremony in her beautiful cathedral to mark this occasion. The bishop after the
mass received, with style, his priests in his court.
April
18, 1998. The installation at Ohuru of
the first member of Congregation of Christ The Emmanuel (CCE), Mr.
Boniface Udiong Ikono, to the office of Lector. His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. V. V.
Ezeonyia presided over the ceremony assisted by the Father founder, Very Rev.
Prof. John Egbulefu and the Vocation Director of Aba Diocese, Rev. Fr. Innocent
I. Asouzu.
April
15, 1998. The diocesan vicariate examination was very successfully held.
April
16, 1998. The annual meeting of seminarians with the vocation director took
place as usual.
VOCATION
DIARY:
May
3, 1998, 4th Sunday of Easter: Vocation Sunday. Our attention is called to the
message of the Holy Father for the 24 Word day of Prayer for Vocations.
June
28, 1998: Priestly ordination at the Cathedral Graz, Austria. Rev. Emmanuel Umeh
and Rev. Felix Alaribe have humbly applied to be received into the office of
presbyter.
July
3, 1998: Apostolic work for Aba diocesan senior seminarians commences.
July
20 - 24, 1998: Immediate preparation of candidates to the priesthood at St.
Mary's Seminary, Azumini.
July
25, 1998: 10 a.m. Priestly ordination at St. Ambrose Ogbor Hill, Aba. Akwarandu
Bonaventure, Anaba Emmanuel, Asuoha Jephtah, Chilaka Stephen, Kanu Victor,
Nnanna Joachim, Nwagbaoso Magnus, Nwakwuoke Nobert, Nwankpa Augustine and Nwaobasi
Alfred have humbly applied to be
received into the office of presbyter.
August
13, 1998. Apostolic work for senior seminarians ends.
August
14 - 15: Annual Reunion for seminarians at Annunciation Seminary, Amaudara.
-
Besides our seminarian in USA, Mr. Charles Ikeocha, has applied to be installed lector.
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. For
further information on this issue , please contact your parish priest or write
to the vocation director.
CONGRATULATIONS: The Vocation ministry
congratulates Rev. Fr. Dr. Innocent
Nwokenna who has joined the community of Formators at Seat of Wisdom Major
Seminary Owerri. He lectures Canon Law.
With him the number of our diocesan Priests lecturing in this seminary alone
comes to four. We rejoice with all our
seminarians who were successful at the 1997/98 SSCE, B.Phil. & B.D.
Exams.
-Rev. Frs. Leo Ogbonna, John Nwagbaraocha and Gabriel
Eze have left for USA on diverse diocesan assignments. The vocations ministry
wishes them well.
-The vocations ministry rejoices with Aba diocese at
the publication of the maiden issue of her diocesan newspaper "REX".
Rev. Fr. Gabriel Eze was appointed the first executive editor.
FOR
THEIR MERITORIOUS SERVICES IN THE
LORD'S VINEYARD WE CONGRATULATE FOR:
50
years: Rt. Rev. Msgr. E. Nwafo
30
years Msgr. B. Onwumere,
25
years: Very Rev. Msgr. I. I. Alaribe. Rev. Frs. S. U. Ezenibe, P. C. Nwaogu, B.
O. Nwoko, L. N. Uzoh.
20
years: Rev. Frs. E. Ogbonna, S. A. Achoromadu
INTER-DIOCESAN
APOSTOLIC WORK: We heartily welcome to our diocese: Obidile
Emmanuel, Amanze Stanley, Akaeze Anthony, Onyima Peter, Anyanwu Matthew, Edocie
Cosmas These seminarians are on inter-diocesan apostolic work. The presence of
our Claretian, Spiritan, SMMM, MSP brothers in our diocese for their apostolic
fills us with joy.
Aba diocesan seminarians on inter-diocesan apostolic work are: Agbara
Dominic, Akwari Godwin, Ekekwe Kenneth,
Mbahotu Paul and Nwaubani Jude Mary
and Ikono Boniface (CCE).
REPORTS FOR SEMINARIANS ON
APOSTOLIC WORK/PROBATION: Comprehensive reports concerning
all categories of senior seminarians on apostolic work and probation are to be
submitted before August 14, 1998. This would facilitate their promotion. All
senior seminarians on apostolic work in Aba diocese are to submit comprehensive
typewritten reports of their 1998
apostolic work before or during the reunion. The report is necessary for
documentation
CONSULTATION WITH THE VOCATION
DIRECTOR : All those wishing to see 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 a.m.
His address is P.M.B. 7526, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria. Tel. 087-220704.
E-mail: Frasouzu@unical.anapa.net.ng
MEMENTO
MORI - OUR DEAD: Death has occurred of Ezeji Brown. C. Nwala the
father of our seminarian Mr. Stephen Nwala and Mazi Ezekiel Ofoma Okoye, the
father of Mr. Uche Okoye, our seminarian.
We also mourn with our brothers and friends, Rev. Fr. Francis Uwalaka
and Rev. Fr. Charles Ifemeje for the loss of their fathers. Both Mazi Celestine Uwalaka and Nze Hyacinth
Onwukaeme Ifemeje (Okechukwunyere) died in February 1998. May their souls rest
in peace.
FROM OUR MAILBOX/DONATIONS: Donnations were received for the training and support of
seminarians from Chief and Mrs. Grace Amobi and Family, Lady Knights of St.
Mulumba (N 5,000), Mr. Fabian Ajere (N1,000), Rev. Fr. Kevin Nwosu (N4,500).
The vocations ministry thanks the donors for their generosity.
OTHER VOCATIONS: As
a parent, my vocation fundamentally is a call to contribute meaningfully in the
growth of the domestic church; founded on the principles of Christian love. The
domestic church is simply the Family, and the family is a providential or
divine (association or communion between a father, mother and children. In this
arrangement, the vocation of the father is simply to be fatherly, the mother, to
be motherly. The children are understandably not expected to be childish
forever since all things being equal, they would grow into maturity. Therefore,
their vocations proper is taking seriously their training. Any parent who fails
in this grave duty of responsibly caring for his /her children, has failed in
his or her vocation. As a professional, in any profession, my vocation is to
contribute my own quota towards the well-being and development of man. I should therefore use the vast array
of my technical know-how to work towards the betterment of man . Anything short
of this becomes counterproductive and a defeat of my vocation (Ekpendu Chidi
Uzoamaka).
BEING
Oh!
most evident reality perceived
Oh!
most precious gratuitous gift of love
Oh!
most jealoused gift received
Oh!
most delicate property owned
what
is the highest problem of man?
-
BEING
Being
! the ultimate host of man
Being! the ultimate companion sought
Being! the ultimate is unknown
Being! the ultimate object thought
what
is the highest problem of man?
-
BEING
In
you all creatures dance around
In
you all creatures vaguely parade
Your
laws no one contravenes, untouched
Your
mysterious visits to creatures
fear
inflicts
what
is the highest problem of man?
-
BEING
You!
do creatures really often forget?
Your
mystery who reveals?
Jesus
Christ of Nazareth on the stage
appears
But
His wisdom how many accept?
what
is the highest problem of man?
-
BEING
Being!
on the epiphany of your truth,
the
wisdom of the affected trembles,
Being!
the source of existence
Being!
the abode of and unbracketable by
the
existent
what
is the highest problem of man?
- BEING (Uko N. Fidelis)
- To conquer oneself is a greater
victory than to conquer thousands in a
battle. Buddha (B.C. 568-488)
thanks
Assistant editors for this edition: Rev. Magnus
Nwagbaoso and Mr. Kenneth Ekekwe. Typesetting:
Mr. Jude Okorie and Mr. Paul Okeke.
thanks very much
A PLACE WORTH
EXPERIENCING
“Experience”, they say “is the best
teacher”. St. Mary’s Propaedeutic Seminary Azumini is indeed a place worth
experiencing. I say this because the spiritual maturity one needs in life is
offered in this seminary.
The Christian spirituality, as we know,
focuses on the experience of God’s self- communication and upon how believers
may prepare themselves for and express this experience in the whole contest of
their lives and world. It is a life - long encounter which concerns itself with
how to appropriate and incarnate the realities of faith. Being a life - long
experience, spirituality proves non - static but dynamic. It is a non -
temporal but spiritual dynamism. Put simply, it is a spiritual growth. Growth
naturally implies a gradual process; a process from little to much; infancy to
adulthood, tenderness to maturity. This
also applies to spiritual growth; a process that occupies one all through life;
a life - long struggle, a process from purgation to illumination. It is this growth
that St. Mary’s Propaedeutic Seminary offers.
St. Mary’s Propaedeutic Seminary is a
spiritual formation ground situated in Azumini, Ukwa East, a non - noisy
environment; a place one enjoys, not the distracting, uncomfortable and
disordered sounds of the big lorries and cars, as often the case in the crowded
urban cities, but the naturally sweet, ordered and melodious sounds of the
birds and crickets. In this formation ground one can hardly not hear the
dropping sound of a pin, just because of its serene nature. It is a place one
cannot but commune with his creator in the inner recesses of his heart; a place
where necessary and sufficient provisions are made for conducive, comfortable
and easy attainment of spiritual maturity; a place one, irrespective of man’s
insatiable nature, lacks nothing. It is a place devoid not of spiritual masters
and ebullient academic giants to take care of one’s spiritual and temporal
needs. In this seminary, retreats are organised seasonally, recollections
conducted continuously and spiritual directors regularly ready to take care of
one’s spiritual needs. In fact, the accruing and all enriching benefits of this
formation ground are immense and inexhaustible. To be candid, after
experiencing this maturity - inculcating seminary, even if a day, one cannot
but leave everything and follow Christ. No wonder the Catholic diocese of Aba
recommends a one week retreat and one year spiritual formation for her
prospective deacons and senior seminarians respectively, at this God - encountering
ground. Thanks to God and the Catholic Diocese of Aba for such wonderful
opportunity.
Really, the seminary is worth
experiencing, for it assuredly offers all that is needed for a genuine
spiritual maturity. All you need do is to come and see.
Longinus
Onyechesi
!!!!!!!!!!!
* We thank the almighty God for
His Blessings*
From Kenneth
Ekekwe
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
WHO
IS MY FRIEND
A
friend is he whose soul
is
in two dwelling ....... i
And
who behaves as though
is
another I ....... ii
My
spirit is in union with his
And
his heart with mine in marriage
He
loves me on and on
And
my affection reciprocates
His
love is not for my usefulness
Nor
for the pleasure derived from me
It
is rather for my sake
And
he is ready to die for me
i
. Aristotle’s definition of a friend
ii.
Zeno’s definition of a friend.
C. G. Nwala.
TROUBLED
PEOPLE IN A TROUBLED WORLD
When
I look at people in this world
I
cannot but say they are desperate
When
I see them Commit crime in bold
I
conclude their lives are replete with iniquity
Many
no longer revere God
From
what they see they feel he is dead
Were
he living he would have rescued
His
people whose thoughts have misled
But
who has ever adviced the Almighty?
Who
has given him suggestions?
Did
he not make the mighty,
the
stars, moon and planets circuitons?
Oh
Lord we pray you to send us your spirit
that
we may see you in all we do
in
poverty and difficulty we may trust
And
no longer be troubled in this troubled world.
C. G. Nwala.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
POEM:
THEOLOGY TWO,