The 2025 Lenten Retreat for members of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) from the Agbani, Emene, and Enugu Deaneries, as well as various chaplaincies, was held on Saturday, 22nd March 2025, at the Diocesan Catechetical and Pastoral Centre in Ugwudinso, Eke. The event drew an inspiring assembly of devout women, united in faith and purpose, under the leadership of their diocesan and deanery executives. The gathering was skilfully coordinated by the Diocesan Deputy Director, Mrs. Uche Ani, alongside the CWO Directors from the respective deaneries: Mrs. Edith Nwankwo (Agbani Deanery), Mrs. Ogechukwu Chiawa (Emene Deanery), and Mrs. Evangeline Ekoh (Enugu Deanery).
The retreat began at 9:30 a.m. with the solemn praying of the Stations of the Cross. This was followed by an enlightening address by the Diocesan Director for the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael Chime. Drawing from the rich theological and spiritual traditions of the Church, Fr. Chime expounded on the significance of the Jubilee Year as a sacred time of grace, mercy, and renewal. He urged the women to fully embrace the plenary indulgences offered by the Church, emphasizing the indispensable role of conversion, sacramental reconciliation, and works of charity in receiving these divine gifts. His words resonated deeply, calling the faithful to a deeper commitment to their spiritual lives.
The high point of the retreat was the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Charles Onovo. In his homily, Fr. Onovo reflected on the Gospel passage from Luke 15:1-3, 11-32, the parable of the Prodigal Son. He exhorted the faithful to emulate the boundless mercy and love of the Father, particularly in forgiving others and showing compassion. Fr. Onovo also connected the retreat’s theme, drawn from Jeremiah 29:11—“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”—to the Lenten call to trust in God’s providential care. His message was both comforting and challenging, urging the women to surrender their lives to God’s perfect will.
The retreat was marked by an impressive turnout from the three deaneries and chaplaincies. In recognition of their outstanding commitment, the following parishes and chaplaincy were honoured for their exceptional participation:
• Agbani Deanery: Sacred Heart Parish, Akpugo, recorded the highest attendance.
• Emene Deanery: Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, Emene, secured the top position in participation.
• Enugu Deanery: Christ the King Parish, Ngwo, emerged as the best-represented parish.
• Chaplaincies: Gloria Dei, Police Detective College, took the lead in attendance.
The 2025 Lenten Retreat proved to be a transformative experience for all participants. The women departed with hearts uplifted, strengthened in their faith, and inspired to be instruments of God’s mercy and love in their families, parishes, and chaplaincies. May the graces received during this Lenten season bear abundant fruit in the lives of all who participated. Deo gratias!
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