A pontifical high mass has been celebrated in honour of Mrs Philomena Azuka Ozumba of Urunnebo, Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka Council Area who turned seventy-seven years recently.

 

The mass was also to mark the seventeenth-year memorial anniversary of their father, Late Pa Emmanuel Ozumba.

The thanksgiving mass was presided over by the Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Awka, Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor.

 

It was also to uplift her unhidden virtues of prayerfulness, diligence, faith and charity work as she retired as a teacher.

 

“Nnediugwu” as she is fondly called by her children is the mother of Reverend Father Chidi Ozumba and the former Deputy Chief Press Secretary to former Governor Willie Obiano, Mr Emeka Ozumba.

In a homily during the mass at Saint Francis Parish Enugwu-Ukwu, Bishop Ezeokafor said that the season is a season of love and it is expected that every Christian should extend love to one another for that is the purpose for which Christ was born.

 

Most Reverend Ezeokafor extolled the Ozumba family for celebrating their mother whom he described as a strong prayerful woman that trained and nurtured her children and everyone around her to have the best future.

He said Mrs Ozumba also impacted many lives during her teaching career and advised her children to continue to show her love and care.

 

Speaking shortly after the mass, one of the sons of the celebrant, Reverend Father Ozumba said it is a thing of joy for one to live to old age having laboured and worked all through life, pointing out that their Mum’s sterling qualities and training spurred them to a successful life.

 

Another of her sons and former Governor Obiano’s aide, Mr Ozumba said they organized the event to celebrate their mother while she is alive praying God to keep her alive in good health.

Also speaking, the daughter of the celebrant, Miss Chinyere Ozumba who said she was overwhelmed with joy, said their mother brought them up in a Godly way and rooted them in prayers and fear of God.

 

While thanking God and all who came to felicitate with her, the celebrant, Mrs Ozumba said the journey of life is not an easy one but with persistent prayers and faith in God one will overcome all hurdles.

 

Special thanksgiving, presentation of Papal certificate to Mrs Ozumba, cutting of birthday cake and other side attractions also featured at the mass.