Valentine Ozigbo, the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2021 Anambra state gubernatorial election, was a special guest of honour on Sunday, August 29, 2021, at the rededication ceremony of the renovated church building of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist Catholic Church, Agulu.
St John the Apostle and Evangelist Catholic Church Agulu was created in 1985 under the Catholic Diocese of Awka, with Rev. Fr. BAC Obiefuna as its first Parish Priest.
The series of events lined up to mark the dedication ceremony began with a high pontifical mass presided over by His Lordship, Most Revd. Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese.
Speaking during the sermon, Bishop Ezeokafor thanked God for the gift of abundant life and grace upon the Catholic community of St. John’s Agulu. He spoke glowingly of the efforts of leaders of faith whose sweat and dedication laid the foundation for the church.
“Today is a joyful day, a day of the Lord, and we are happy. St. John’s Catholic church has lived long enough to witness the transformations and changes that come with age, and for these, we have gathered to thank God,” the Bishop said.
“We are here to re-dedicate this beautiful edifice as a befitting place of worship for God. It is also an opportunity to thank God, who has kept us in faith and hope from the first day this parish was created till today. The tremendous growth that has taken place here is highly commendable.
“I also wish to express my deep gratitude to everyone who assisted in the rebuilding project. These efforts are the outward signs of the inward faith and belief we have in God and the salvation of his church.
“The essence of a physical church structure in our spiritual lives can never be overemphasised. Logically, one can argue that God is spirit and can be worshipped in the spirit from anywhere. However, reflecting on the pattern of worship right from the ancient days, we can see how believers come together in tents, temples and sanctuaries to worship God and stimulate their faith.
“Solomon knew of this and built God a magnificent place of worship. Today, we are happy to have built a similar edifice for God here in Agulu through your collective efforts.
“As we dedicate this church today, we should understand that it has become a special place of worship and not a place of buying and selling. We are invited to bring our prayers and supplications to God in this Holy place and expect that our wish and requests will be granted,” the Bishop prayed.
While speaking to journalists after the Holy mass, Ozigbo, who is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, congratulated the parish priest for redefining church dedication and for the sacrifices he makes for the Lord’s flock.
Ozigbo, a respected business leader and philanthropist, also noted that the church is an integral part of human formation, describing occasions like this as very important in the life of every Christian faithful.
“I am here in two capacities; one as a special guest and secondly, and most importantly, I am here as a friend of the parish, to rejoice with them and thank God for the gift of a befitting place of worship. Fr Ezenwata has shown true commitment in caring for the souls handed over to him,” Ozigbo said.
“In the celebration of today, I experienced the joy and excitement that comes with being in the Lord’s presence. The fountain of worship was renewed and made fresh in every soul that participated, and this is the real essence of our spiritual journey.
“I congratulate especially the people of St. John’s Parish through whose efforts the church building is wearing a new look today. It is a privilege to contribute to establishing a place of worship for God because of the numerous blessings that come with it.
“While I share in your joy, I also pray that the grace of this dedication is made manifest in our lives. As the church wears a new and beautiful look today, may our hearts and souls also be re-energized for the greater work of evangelisation,” Ozigbo prayed.
In his remarks, the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ezenwata, conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to everyone who gathered to celebrate with them. He thanked parishioners and friends of the parish who donated generously towards the renovation project and re-dedication ceremony. He prayed to God to replenish their sources of income and grant every of their good heart desires.
Among the priests who were present to celebrate the mass were Rev. Fr. Prof BAC Obiefuna, the first parish priest of St John’s Parish Agulu; Rev Fr Francis Chidume, the chancellor of Awka Diocese; Rev Fr Joel Okechukwu, Dean of Agulu Deanery; Rev Fr Louis Nwobi, Chairman Liturgy Commission Awka Diocese and a host of other priests.
Sir Victor Umeh, Honourable Dozie Nwankwo and Barrister Alex Ejisieme (SAN) were among distinguished personalities who also graced the event.
Mr. Valentine Ozigbo was accompanied to the event by his wife Mrs Ojiugo Ozigbo and members of his campaign.
