By Chinenye Dike
On March 1, 2025, the noble brothers of the Knights of St. John International(KSJI) elevated some of their members into different degrees. The event which took place at Holy Ghost Cathedral Enugu witnessed the presence of noble people from different parts of the Diocese, Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province and beyond.
The investiture started with a holy mass presided by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. C.V. C Onaga, and con-celebrated by the chaplain of St. John international, Enugu, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Obasi; Rev. Fr. Paul Uche; the Cathedral Administrator, Rev. Fr. Raphael Ozonwafor and a host of other priests.
In a homily by his Lordship, Bishop Onaga described the event as a gathering to perform the rite of the noble Degree investiture. Addressing the Knights, the Bishop urged the newly invested Knights of St. John International to embrace their responsibilities with faith, discipline, and commitment to Christian values. He emphasized that the order is a sacred institution, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Catholic Church, and that membership carries significant spiritual and moral obligations.
He explained that the term ‘order’ originates from a Latin word “Ordo” meaning a ‘close circle’ or ‘special crew,’ encouraging the knights to take pride in their identity, even in the face of misunderstanding. Instead of reacting negatively to misconceptions about their identity and activities, he urged them to use their position to demonstrate the true essence of their faith through their actions.
Bishop Onaga acknowledged the roles the knights play in the church and commended them for their adherence to discipline and tradition, including the obligation to wear their uniforms at all official ceremonies, regardless of the weather. He also highlighted their monastic responsibilities, stating that knighthood is both a religious and military order that demands conduct reflecting the teachings of Christ, particularly in love and sacrifice.
He stressed that the sword, a significant symbol of knighthood, is not a weapon of violence but a tool for strengthening faith. He stated that a knight’s duty is to fight for faith, not to shed blood.
Acknowledging the contributions of the knights, he commended their dedication to Church activities and charity, noting that their presence at religious ceremonies enhances their authenticity and reinforces Catholic traditions. However, he urged them to go beyond charity and ensure that their lives serve as a testament to Christ’s teachings.
Bishop Onaga also provided historical context, explaining that knighthood was once an exclusive privilege of the elite. Before the revolution of 1879, only the bourgeoisie could become knights, but after the Revolution, emphases shifted to all and sundry, especially those noted for Christian values such as love, charity, and good behavior, making the order accessible to all devout men.
He concluded by stressing that one of the greatest ways to defend the faith is by living a good Christian life, and also urged them to pray always. “If a knight should have problem in the family or society, let it be on the grounds of his insisting on what is right or what is known to be right” he said. He added that anyone who does not uphold Christian virtues should not be a knight and called on the members to lead by example, carrying forward the mission of faith, charity, and service. He also decried the activities of some knights who fan the embers of neopaganism under the pretense of inculturation.
He admonished them to desist from such acts.
After the rites of the investiture were performed, the Grand President in a brief address welcomed all who were present.
Their Chaplain, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Obasi, in his vote of thanks expressed gratitude to the Bishop for his unwavering support and good works in the diocese; he also appreciated the Cathedral administrator, Rev. Fr. Rapheal Ozonwafor, and other priests present.
Fr. Obasi acknowledged the presence of some dignitaries at the event: Brig. Gen. Peter Adimorah, Noble Grand Master; Brig. Gen. Chukwusaokwu Andrew Nwokeocha B.O.C.C Grand Master; Major General Prof. Remi Uche —Supreme Surbodinate President (SSP); Noble Lady Chinwe Mgbajiaka —SSP ladies; Major Gen. Mike Ikon, past SSP, Brig. Gen. Obiora Amadi—Enugu Grand President; Brig. Gen. Chijioke Ikechukwu—Onitsha President; Brig. Gen. Chidi Arinze Past Supreme Subordinate Secretary; Brig. Gen. J.A. Ezuchu—Awka Grand President, Brig. Gen. Pat Nwajagu—past Enugu Grand President; Brig. Gen. Innocent Anugwo—Abakiliki Grand President and other Knights and Ladies present.
He prayed for God’s blessings upon them. After the mass there was handshake with the bishop at the cathedral entrance and group photographs.
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