By Chinenye Dike
The Catholic Diocese of Enugu on 16th March, 2025 celebrated the Jubilee Year of Hope, as declared by Pope Francis, with a special Mass. The celebration held at Holy Ghost Cathedral, Enugu started with a Holy mass presided by the Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Calistus Valentine Onaga. Also in attendance were the Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Anthony Gbuji, Monsignor Geoffrey Aguigwo, Monsignor Obiora Ike, Very Rev. Fr. Micheal Chime, Very Rev. Fr. Wilfred Agubuchie, a host of Monsignors, priests and religious.
Bishop Onaga in his homily emphasized the importance of hope amidst Nigeria’s challenges. He encouraged the faithful to strengthen their hope in God, even in the face of difficulties, and to believe that God will make all things good.
The bishop read a communiqué from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, which highlighted the country’s positive developments and challenges. The communiqué acknowledged some positive strides made by the government, including the reinvigoration of the Petroleum Industry, rehabilitation of roads, and introduction of the student loan scheme. However, it also expressed concern about persistent insecurity, youth unemployment, and the high cost of essential goods.
The communiqué called for unity, national integration, improved security, job creation, and agricultural development. It also emphasized the need for good governance, transparency, and accountability. The bishops urged Nigerians to refuse to be cowed by silence and helplessness, but rather to insist on doing the right thing and having it done.
To mark the Jubilee Year of Hope, the bishop led the congregation in renewing their baptismal vows.
The Diocesan Chancellor Very Rev. Fr. Wilfred Agubuchie thanked the Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Anthony Gbuji, and other dignitaries for their presence.
Very Rev. Fr. Michael Chime, chairman of the Jubilee Year committee, explained how to receive indulgence during the Jubilee Year. He mentioned that plenary indulgence is the grace of God that cleanses us from the injury of forgiven sins.
To receive plenary indulgence, Fr. Chime outlined the following steps:
– Receive the sacraments: He emphasized the importance of going for Confession with sincere repentance, performing penance and Holy Communion.
– Visit designated pilgrimage sites: Fr. Chime listed several parishes in the Enugu Diocese that have been approved for pilgrimage, including St. John Parish, Agbani, Sacred Heart Parish, Iwollo, St. Joseph’s Parish, Emene, and others.
– Pray for the dead: Fr. Chime encouraged the faithful to pray for the deceased.
– Engage in acts of charity: He also encouraged acts of charity, such as almsgiving.
– Pray specific prayers: Fr. Chime mentioned praying the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be for the intention of Pope.
By following these steps, Fr. Chime explained that the faithful can receive plenary indulgence and experience the grace of God in their lives.
The Jubilee Year of Hope celebration in the Enugu Diocese was a powerful reminder of the importance of hope in the face of challenges.
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