Governor Chukwuma Soludo has described Francis Cardinal Arinze as a great influence to the universal church, Anambra State and the world at large.

 

Speaking at a thanksgiving mass at Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha to celebrate the Cardinal’s ninetieth birthday celebration, Governor Soludo described him as one of the best gifts Anambra has given to the world, and stressed that the Cardinal has been a great inspiration to him as a person.

He recalled the message given to him by Cardinal Arinze when he assumed office, pointing out  that in as much as he is in a haste to make the place better, he should equally understand that it won’t happen overnight.

 

Governor Soludo called on people to celebrate their loved ones while they are still alive, describing the Cardinal as one of the best that should be celebrated.

Earlier in a homily, John Cardinal Onaiyekan stated that the church is not only celebrating Cardinal Arinze, but the Archbishop of Onitsha.

 

He thanked God for his long life and wished him the good health of the soul, mind and body.

On his part, Archbishop Valerian Okeke of Onitsha Archdiocese thanked God for the gift of the Cardinal Arinze, and celebrated him for his services to the church, the nation and the world.

 

The thanksgiving mass was attended by the Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, Peter Cardinal Okpalaeke, a retinue of Bishops and priests, Igwe Alfred Achebe, government officials, Catholic faithful, among others.