By Chikezie Ogbonna
Holy Ghost Cathedral came alive on Sunday, December 8, as the 2024 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols unfolded in a kaleidoscope of faith, music, and reflection on God’s unwavering faithfulness. The event drew an illustrious congregation, including Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Auxiliary Bishop Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, and a lineup of distinguished guests: Enugu State Governor Barr. Peter Mbah, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly Hon. Uche Ugwu, and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, among other government and diocesan officials.
Beginning the lessons, Governor Peter Mbah read the first lesson, symbolizing the unity of governance and faith. The Holy Ghost Cathedral Choir enthralled the audience with renditions that soared like angels’ voices, each note a testament to their renowned artistry and devotion.
Auxiliary Bishop Ernest Obodo delivered a stirring homily themed “He Shall Be Called the Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:5). He described the season as a golden moment of eager anticipation, a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, “the greatest man who ever lived and still lives.”
“Jesus, despite his humble beginnings and countless tribulations, remains victorious and stands today as the King of Kings,” Bishop Obodo declared. “Two millennia later, He is still known as the Prince of Peace. It is our fervent prayer that this Prince of Peace brings healing to our country, Nigeria.”
In a striking critique of the nation’s turmoil, the Bishop lamented the widespread insecurity and senseless loss of lives and property. He underscored peace as not merely the absence of conflict but the ability to resolve it through peaceful means.
“No nation can rise unless it is founded on peace,” he stressed. Bishop Obodo also praised Governor Mbah’s leadership, particularly in security, economic growth, and technological advancements, as a reflection of Christ’s enduring influence.
Challenging Christians to embody their faith, Bishop Obodo proclaimed: “Christianity is not a convenient religion. Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my good works. We must become what we celebrate, agents of peace and love in a broken world.”
The Auxiliary Bishop’s message found resonance in the words of Bishop Callistus Onaga, who urged the faithful to exemplify Christ in their daily lives.
The day’s grandeur was crowned by a heartfelt tribute to the Cathedral Administrator, Rev. Fr. Raphael Ozonwafor. Praising his exceptional organizational prowess, Bishop Obodo described him as a “magician” whose tireless efforts made the event an unparalleled success.
As the echoes of carols faded and the congregation dispersed, one truth lingered, peace is both a gift and a responsibility. In the heart of Enugu, the Holy Ghost Cathedral stood as a beacon, calling all to reflect, renew, and embrace the Prince of Peace in a world yearning for healing.
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