By Chikezie Ogbonna
A widow in Amodu Awkunanaw, Mrs. Josephine Nwobodo, wife of the late Cathechist of the Parish, Late Late Mr. Benedict Nwobodo, has received a newly built bungalow, a generous gift from philanthropist Sir Paul Erinne. The beautifully finished home was constructed as an act of charity, despite Sir Erinne having no prior personal connection with the beneficiary.
The official blessing and inauguration of the house took place immediately after a Holy Mass at St. Peter Parish Amodu, presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga. In his homily, Bishop Onaga praised the faithful of Amodu for their dedication to community development.
As part of his visit, the Bishop donated 100 bags of cement to support the flooring of the parish church, which is currently under construction. He encouraged parishioners to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to growth.
Commending Sir Paul Erinne for his generosity, Bishop Onaga described his actions as a true reflection of divine love. Drawing from Luke 6:17, 20-26, he emphasized the importance of selflessness and condemned greed among those entrusted with the welfare of others.
“Blessed are those who, despite their own needs, still create opportunities to help others,” the Bishop said. “Sir Paul Erinne has made sacrifices so that others may eat and live. If you have wealth, use it to help others.”
The Bishop also urged the people to avoid envy and jealousy, instead encouraging them to celebrate the success of others while working hard and trusting in God’s timing.
Sir Paul Erinne, in an interview with The Choice Flame Newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief, Rev. Fr. Vincent Iwuchukwu, revealed that giving was his life’s calling. Inspired by the selfless service of St. Teresa of Calcuta, he has dedicated himself to helping the less privileged.
Despite being of Anglican background, Sir Erinne emphasized that his philanthropy transcends religious and denominational boundaries. “Religion is a personal matter,” he said. “What matters most is a sincere heart. My religion is the religion of the poor.”
He urged young people to work hard, trust in God, and strive for excellence in their honest endeavors.
Bishop Onaga also recalled Sir Erinne’s past acts of kindness, including the distribution of over 2,000 bags of rice to widows and the less privileged during Christmas. He called on the faithful to pray for the philanthropist so he can continue in his good works.
“How you live your life determines how God rewards you,” the Bishop said. “If you want Him to reward you well, do good for your fellow man.”
It will be recalled that on 30th of Novemebr 2024, Sir Paul Erinne was among the many privileged individuals bestowed with a papal award for his many recorded years of service to God, the church and humanity at large. He was bestowed with the BENEMERENTI MEDAL, a Papal Honour.
In a vote of thanks, Modestus Ugwu on behalf of the Parish thanked the Bishop for his fatherly love always and he thanked the benefactor, Sir. Paul Erinne for his many great works.
The event was a moment of joy and inspiration, reinforcing the values of generosity, faith, and community support.
Also in attendance were the Diocesan Secretary/Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Agubuchie, Dean of Agbani Deanery, Rev. Fr. Stan Zeowa, Parish Priest St. Peter Amodu, Rev. Fr. Joseph Inmpey, Fr. Dennis Eze, parish priest St. Paul Ozalla, Fr. Donatus Onuigbo, the Director of Justice Development & Peace Commision (JDPC), Fr. Vincent Iwuchukwu, as well as Rev. Fr. Raphael Nwobodo, amongst many others.
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