It was a celebration of God’s glory and mercy at Saint Matthews Catholic Church, Amawbia, as the priest in residence, Reverend Father Dr Patrick Chinenye Okafor marks twenty fifth priestly ordination anniversary.

Reverend Father Okafor who is the Chaplain to Governor’s Lodge and Public Relations Officer of the Catholic Diocese of Awka as well as Founder, Keep Hope Alive Charity Foundation, hails from Nri, Anaocha Council Area.

The mass attended by Governor Willie Obiano, some members of the State Assembly, including Pharmacist Obinna Emeneka, Sir Pete Ibida, Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr C-don Adinuba, his Women Affairs and Public Utilities counterparts, Lady Ndidi Mezue and Engineer Emeka Ezenwanne, the State Head of Service, Barrister Harry Uduh and many others who gathered to share in the joy of the celebrant, Reverend Father Okafor.

In a homily to mark the Eucharistic Celebration, a visiting priest, Reverend Father Stanley Mmaduechesi said the mass is all about gratitude to God for seeing the celebrant through the journey of priesthood to the heights of celebrating twenty-fifth anniversary.

Reverend Father Mmaduechesi noted that the celebrant embraced his calling with passion, dedication and persistence and stated that he has contributed to the growth and development of Awka Catholic Diocese and has equally been a philanthropist.

Speaking shortly after the mass, the Chancellor of Awka Diocese, Reverend Father Chidiume said the celebrant is an inspirational priest who shows dedication and passion for his calling, noting that he is more concerned in the exercise of his moral responsibility of supporting the less privileged children, especially in education.

For the twin sister of Father Okafor, Mrs Amaka Anekwe, from their childhood, her brother demonstrated his calling as a priest describing him as generous, even as she thanked God for the success of his ministry.

In their goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Vincent Okpala, the President General of Nri, Chief Kelvin Obiegbunem and the State Chairman of APGA, Sir Norbert Obi, prayed God to strengthen Father Okafor for the expansion of his gospel and relief to the downtrodden.

Responding, Father Okafor appreciated God for his love and mercy upon his life and promised to continue his service to God and humanity.

Correspondent Amaka Chibuzor Okoye reports that special thanksgiving, cutting of anniversary cake, among others added glamour to the Eucharistic Celebration.

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