By Chikezie Ogbonna
The Catholic Diocese of Enugu yesterday 17th August witnessed a profound display of devotion as thousands of faithful converged for the annual Marian Pilgrimage and Rosary Carnival. The event, which drew a mammoth crowd, was held at the National Shrine of Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help, Maryville, Ugwogo-Nike, Enugu.
Leading the spiritual assembly were the Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, and the Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, joined by hundreds of priests and members of the religious community. The faithful, hailing from various parishes across the diocese, defied the rain and participated fervently in the day’s activities, which were marked by a deep expression of faith amid the numerous challenges facing the country today.
The pilgrimage featured a solemn Rosary procession, a Family Consecration to Our Mother of Perpetual Help, and opportunities for confession. The highlight of the day was the Holy Mass, with Bishop Onaga serving as the chief celebrant. The atmosphere was one of reverence and unity as the faithful came together in prayer and reflection.
In his homily, the Vocation Director of Enugu Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Ambrose Agu, reminded the congregation of the profound significance of their gathering. Reflecting on the history and purpose of the Marian Pilgrimage, he urged the faithful to hold steadfastly to their faith, reassuring them that God remains in control and will provide rescue at His appointed time.
Fr. Agu emphasized the importance of silence and meditation in daily life, noting that such practices deepen one’s faith and understanding of life’s challenges. He lamented the pervasive noise that characterizes modern life, particularly among young people, attributing it to a lack of depth and reflection in their approach to life.
“Such noise,” he remarked, “is born out of shallowness and a flight from the depth needed to articulate life meaningfully.”
He called on the faithful to emulate the example of the Virgin Mary, who, through silence and meditation, was able to discern and live a life in perfect alignment with God’s will. Fr. Agu also condemned the resurgence of old, abandoned traditions among the youth, urging them to retrace their steps, seek God, and allow the tenets of Christianity to guide their lives.
The event culminated in a special consecration of the faithful by Bishop Onaga, a moment of profound spiritual significance for all present. The celebration concluded with the cutting of the carnival cake, symbolizing the joy and unity of the Catholic community in Enugu.
The annual Marian Pilgrimage and Rosary Carnival once again served as a testament to the enduring faith of the Enugu Diocese, offering a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal for the faithful amidst the challenges of the present day.
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