By Chinenye Dike
The Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Valentine Onaga, on December 15, 2024, dedicated the newly constructed church building of St. Aloysius Parish, Railway Quarters, GRA, Enugu. The three-day pastoral visit, which commenced with an interactive session on December 13, culminated in a historic celebration that left parishioners inspired and uplifted.
The highlight of the Bishop’s visit was the dedication Mass, a profound spiritual experience led by His Lordship. Addressing a packed congregation, Bishop Onaga delivered a homily that resonated deeply with all present, calling on them to rejoice in the growth of their parish while embracing their faith with renewed fervor.
In his message, Bishop Onaga emphasized that faith is often tested in challenging circumstances. He urged parishioners to approach the Holy Mass with reverence, underscoring the importance of full participation. Explaining the structure of the Mass, he remarked, “The Eucharist is the heart of the celebration. To miss it is to miss the essence of the Holy Mass.”
Drawing inspiration from Fr. Desmond’s book Commerciality, the Bishop delved into the spiritual and material dimensions of communion, reminding the faithful of their responsibility to share God’s blessings. As the third Sunday before Christmas approached, his words struck a powerful chord: “Rejoice, for salvation is near. Christmas is a time of generosity, love, and community.”
Bishop Onaga’s homily took a contemplative turn as he encouraged parishioners to aspire to sainthood through everyday acts of kindness and humility. “We are all children of God,” he declared. “As representatives of Christ, our actions must reflect His love and grace.”
He reflected on the trials faced by the parish in acquiring a permanent site for its church, urging the congregation to celebrate their triumphs while remaining steadfast in their faith.
The visit also offered an opportunity for the parish community to reflect on its journey. The Pastoral Council delivered a poignant address, recounting the challenges faced by parishioners, particularly the devastating evictions that displaced many families.
Despite the setbacks, the council commended the Bishop’s intervention, which provided temporary relief and demonstrated his unwavering support. They also made a heartfelt appeal for a review of the parish’s diocesan obligations, citing a decline in numerical and financial strength.
The event was not without celebration. Parishioners presented tokens of appreciation to His Excellency, thanking him for his fatherly care. The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Christian Nwatu, expressed gratitude to God and all who contributed to the building project, reflecting on the challenges he faced transitioning from seminary life to parish ministry.
“Through the support and prayers of this incredible community, we have achieved something monumental,” Fr. Nwatu said with emotion.
The Bishop conferred the sacrament of confirmation on candidates, urging them to deepen their faith through nine days of morning Mass and to live as ambassadors of Christ. His directive was clear: “Let the seed of the Holy Spirit grow within you.”
Bishop Onaga’s visit was a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of faith, even in the face of adversity. It was a moment of reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment for St. Aloysius Parish, a testament to the resilience of a community determined to thrive.
As the event drew to a close, parishioners left the newly dedicated church with hearts full of joy and spirits uplifted, ready to embrace the call to love, share, and serve in preparation for the coming of Christ.
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