Chinedum Elekwachi
Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor has called on Christians to be steadfast and hold tenaciously to characteristics that portray them as true and practical children of God.
The Bishop gave the advice at St. Stephen’s Parish, Nise in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, said that God cannot be mocked or disrespected.
He called on the church and her followers to reverence God who has the powers to kill both the spirit and the soul.
“Be afraid of God and not human beings. God can make and mar. Do not place your hope on any individual. Place your trust on God and Him alone.
“I want to use this medium to admonish parents to be watchful and take good care of their children.
“Today’s parents should monitor their wards. Our parents were not educated but they spend enough time supervising our activities.
Always asking relevant questions
“They are always there to ask the necessary questions.
“Once we came back from school, our parents would ask us to bring our bags for searching and inspection.
“Woe betide you she sees any incriminating material or anything that is from them.
“Our mother knows all that was bought by her husband. Once she sees any other thing you’re in hot soup.
“These are things we are lacking in today’s parenting. No proper inspection and supervision.
“Parents are busy chasing earthly things without recourse to the children’s upbringing,’ he said.
The Bishop traced most challenges of today to broken homes and busy parents who hardly make out time for their children.
“I’m happy the Governor Chukwuma Soludo has demystified the promoters of okeite and proved that they have been deceiving the gullible all along, especially ill-informed and poorly trained youths.
High tuition
The Catholic Prelate explained that the reason why Peter University Achina/ Onneh’s tuition was a bit high was as a result of lack of government’s patronage such as grants and subvention.
The Cleric singled out Agha family who built road leading to the Parish for special praise, praying God to continue bless and safeguard them.
Parish Priest of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, Nise, Rev Fr Clement Ufoaro thanked the Bishop for his fatherly blessings and care, emphasizing that they would leverage his visit to do more exploit.
Speaking separately, Chief Planner of the event, Cosmos Anyadike, Planning Committee Secretary, Dr. Onyeka Ekeugwu and Planner Sir. Emma Aguh, Chairman C. M. O of St. Stephen’s Parish, Nise commended Ezeokafor for visiting their parish, describing him as a compassionate father and shepherd.
The pastoral visit witnessed the administration of Sacrament of Confirmation on 60 deserving candidates.
Ezeokafor was accompanied to the visit by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubuisi, Diocesan Bursar, Rev. Father Nicodemus Izuchukwu and the he Bishop’s MC, Rev. Fr. Patrick Umezi.
