By Chinenye Dike
The Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu, continued its centenary celebrations with a remarkable Alumni Day 2 event on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. The day was marked with the planting of the centenary tree, the presentation of the Bigard Seminary Documentary tree, and other exhibitions.
The event commenced with a Holy Mass presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty.
In his homily, Most Rev. Crotty focused on the Four Last Things—Life, Death, Heaven, and Hell—urging seminarians to reflect on their ultimate destiny. On Heaven, he described it as “joy, love, and happiness in the presence of God for all eternity,” emphasizing that humanity’s purpose is to unite with God in eternal bliss.
“Our true home is not here on Earth, but in Heaven,” he said. “God has wired this destiny into the very DNA of our humanity, and as seminarians, your particular vocation is to strive for holiness and to lead others to God.”
Speaking on Hell, he addressed its frightening reality, explaining that it is the result of human choices rather than God’s will. “God wills for all of us to reach our destiny in Heaven. However, Hell comes from the definitive rejection of God’s love,” he said, stressing the importance of living by the Gospel’s light and avoiding the traps of sin.
In conclusion, Most Rev. Crotty reminded the congregation of the inevitability of judgment and the accountability required of all Christians. Referring to the Gospel reading of the day, he likened life’s gifts to the parable of the talents: “When the Master returns, we will all be asked to give an account of how we used the gifts entrusted to us.”
Following the Mass, Rev. Fr. Clement Obasi, in his vote of thanks, expressed profound appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the event. He praised the seminarians for their sacrifices and commitment to the celebration urging them to continue striving for excellence in their formation.
Fr. Obasi extended his gratitude to the Apostolic Nuncio for his inspiring presence, the choir for their beautiful renditions, and the numerous clerics and religious leaders in attendance. He acknowledged the Rector of Bigard Seminary, Rev. Fr. Albert Ikpenwa, for his steadfast leadership and mentioned plans to begin the beatification process for Jeanne Bigard, the seminary’s benefactor, with an official letter to be sent soon.
After the Mass, attendees proceeded to plant a centenary tree, symbolizing life, growth, and God’s enduring creation. Speaking about the significance of the act, Rev. Fr. Ikpenwa highlighted the seminary’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
“At Bigard, we value a green environment. This tree is not just a symbol of our celebration but also a reminder of God’s creation. We hope it will stand here for the next 100 years as a testament to God’s life-giving power,” he said.
During an interview at the Alumni Day 2 of Bigard Memorial Seminary’s centenary celebrations, the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, shared profound reflections on the theme “Thanksgiving.” He highlighted the immense blessings bestowed on the Church in Nigeria over the past century, particularly through Bigard Seminary’s contributions to the formation of cardinals, archbishops, bishops, and priests.
“This centenary is an opportunity to give thanks to God for His abundant blessings, not only on Bigard Seminary but on the Church in Nigeria as a whole,” he said. “For 100 years, Bigard has been a beacon of faith, producing leaders who have shaped the Church and society.”
The Apostolic Nuncio emphasized that while the celebration acknowledges the past, it also looks forward with hope and vision. “As we gather to give thanks for these blessings, it is also an occasion to look towards the next 100 years. When we look back, it is not just to dwell on the past but to gain perspective as we turn towards the future.”
He conveyed a special message from the Holy Father to the seminarians, urging them to draw inspiration from the visionary founders of the seminary.
Addressing the Catholic Church in Nigeria, Most Rev. Crotty underscored the country’s significance as the most important Catholic nation in Africa. He encouraged the Church in Nigeria to always bring its faith to the forefront, witnessing to the goodness of the Gospel and sharing the richness of their faith with others.
Bishop Onah, himself an alumnus, reflected on the seminary’s role in shaping leaders. He pointed out that when he reminisces at the years he spent in Bigard, thanks God. “This seminary reminds us of what every institution could be if we truly focus on the formation of the young,” he said. He lamented the decline of many institutions in society but celebrated Bigard as a beacon of hope and excellence.
A documentary chronicling the seminary’s 100-year journey was screened in the auditorium, giving attendees a visual appreciation of its growth and achievements. The film highlighted the contributions of Bigard alumni, many of whom are now priests and leaders serving in Nigeria and around the world.
As the centenary celebration continues, Bigard Memorial Seminary remains committed to its mission of forming holy priests and leaders for the Church and society. The day’s events were a testament to the seminary’s enduring legacy and its vision for the next 100 years—a future grounded in faith, service, and environmental stewardship.
The event was graced with the presence of the Rector of Bodija Seminary Rev. Fr. Anthony Igbekele, Most Rev. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, the Bishop of Ijebu Ode Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, Monsignors, a host of Priests, religion and other dignitaries.
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