By Chikezie Ogbonna
The Catholic Diocese of Enugu marked Pentecost Sunday with a unique and grand celebration, transforming it into an official feast day for the diocese. The occasion was highlighted by the presence of three Bishops: the chief celebrant and Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Calistus Onaga; Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo; and Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Anthony Gbuji. Top diocesan officials and representatives from the State Government, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and the Commissioner of Information, Aka Eze Aka, were also in attendance.
In his homily, Auxiliary Bishop Ernest Obodo emphasized the significance of Pentecost, which concludes the 50 days after Easter and is one of the three major feasts in the Jewish tradition. He explained that while Moses gave the law, grace and truth came through Jesus, and Pentecost celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, bringing unity to the Church.
“Pentecost represents the church gathering in unity,” said Bishop Obodo. “Today’s Mass, with the presence of all three bishops, priests, religious, and people from various backgrounds, epitomizes the unity the Pentecost embodies.”
He highlighted that the Diocese, which began with only 19 parishes, has grown to over 250 parishes and produced two additional dioceses. “We are celebrating the promise of Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit, who guides us in evangelization, truth, and holiness.”
In a special address, Bishop Calistus Onaga announced the upcoming 2025 Enugu Diocesan Synod. In an announcment titled “The Decree of Convocation of 2025 Enugu Diocesan Synod.” Bishop Onaga noted the changing landscape of Christian faith practice due to new social media developments and the revival of idol worship and neopaganism.
“Since the last Synod in 2013, new pastoral challenges have emerged,” he said. “After prayerful consultations, I hereby convoke the Synod from November 7th to 29th, 2025, under the theme ‘Faith and Practice in Enugu Diocese: Opportunities and Challenges.’”
A committee led by Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, with the Diocesan Chancellor and Secretary, Very Rev. Fr. Wilfred Agubuchie, will organize the Synod. Bishop Onaga urged all faithful to pray for the success of the Synod and to provide their full support.
The Bishop also announced the Vatican’s decision to honor select members of the diocese. Eight priests were named Monsignors. Making the list are; Fr. Geophry Aguigwo, Fr. Theophilus Anayawu, Fr. Sebastian Emeka Igwe and Fr. Edward Kanife. Others are, Fr. Christopher Iloama Offordile, Fr. Ibauchi Nikolas Omenka and Fr. Boniface Onah.
Thirty-eight others will receive various papal honors and medals. The investiture ceremony is scheduled for November 5th.
His Lordship noted that the development reflects the Holy Spirit’s impactful role in the diocese’s growth, urging the faithful to embrace the Spirit’s gifts to make a positive difference in the world.
His Lordship further thanked the Cathedral for playing a wonderful host in this year’s madien edition of diocesan feast in line with the Pentecost Sunday. In a special way, he praised the doggedness and ingenuity of the Cathedral Administrator, Very Rev. Fr. Rapheal Ozonwafor, describing him as a man with Vision and Taste!
In an address signed by the Cathedral Administrator, the Vicar General of Enugu Diocese, and the Diocesan Chancellor, and read by the Director of Communications, Rev. Fr. Anthony Aneke, it was noted that for the first time, the diocese is collectively celebrating the powerful presence and role of the Holy Spirit.
Reflecting on the diocese’s history, the address highlighted the Holy Spirit’s significant impact on its growth and development since its establishment from Onitsha Diocese.
The address urged the faithful to open their minds to the Spirit and its charisms to make a difference in the world, mirroring the early Church’s mission.
The day’s festivities concluded with Bishop Onaga blessing the newly constructed state-of-the-art restroom facility for the Cathedral, followed by a grand banquet celebrating the Holy Spirit’s feast.
This remarkable Pentecost Sunday celebration underscored the unity and growth of the Enugu Diocese, reflecting its dynamic faith community and dedicated leadership.
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