By Chinenye Dike
St. Gregory the Great Parish, Idaw River was abuzz on October 13, 2024, as the Catholic faithful gathered to celebrate a monumental occasion, the 50th priestly ordination anniversary and 80th birthday of the beloved Very Rev. Msgr. Dr. Ferdinand Okpara Ibekwe.
The celebration began with a Holy Mass, led by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Calistus Onaga, who stood at the altar, not only as a revered leader but as a friend and spiritual brother to Msgr. Ferdinand. Bishop Onaga’s homily moved hearts and souls as he spoke on the gift of divine wisdom. Drawing from the biblical story of King Solomon, he extolled wisdom as a virtue to guide speech, actions, and life itself, traits he noted that Msgr. Ferdinand embodies fully. The Bishop’s words resonated throughout the parish, as he lauded Msgr. Ferdinand’s life of humble service, selfless leadership, and unwavering respect for all.
“Msgr. Ferdinand,” he said, “is a shepherd who leads with humility, wisdom, and kindness, touching countless lives across the Christian community. He is a model of self-control and generosity that we should all aspire to emulate.”
The Parish Priest of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Rev. Fr. Okuta, visibly moved, expressed his gratitude to Bishop Onaga, the clergy, and the congregation for making the event a truly special one. Msgr. Ferdinand himself took a moment to address the gathering, his voice filled with gratitude as he thanked everyone for their outpouring of love and support over the years. In a gesture symbolizing his enduring love for the parish, he donated two benches to St. Gregory’s, a humble yet heartfelt gift that was met with applause and admiration.
The celebration reached a memorable high as Bishop Onaga administered the sacrament of confirmation, imparting blessings upon the youth, marking a new chapter for the church’s next generation of Catholics as well the unveiling and blessing of the way of the cross image for the Parish, amongst many other activities.
For many in attendance, the day was more than a milestone; it was a testament to the enduring legacy of Msgr. Ferdinand Ibekwe, a true pillar of the faith whose influence has spanned generations and left an indelible mark on the Enugu Diocese.
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