Catholic Priest Calls on Christians to Embrace Sacrifice for Church Growth
OKPANAM/Nigeria: A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. John Konyeke, has urged Christians to embrace selfless sacrifice to further the growth of Christianity.
The priest delivered this message on Sunday during a homily at a newly approved Mass Centre at Maris Schools, Amachai, Okpanam, under the Issele-Uku Diocese led by Bishop Most Rev. Dr Michael Odogwu Elue.
Fr. Konyeke, drawing on Biblical examples, emphasised the rewards of devotion and sacrifice in the service of God, referencing the story of the widow of Zarephath, who, despite her limited means, gave all she had with faith and was blessed in return.
“How generous are we when it comes to the growth of the Church?” he asked. “We should be magnanimous in giving, as great things come from even the smallest contributions.”
Having travelled from the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) to attend this inaugural Mass at the new centre, Fr. Konyeke described the occasion as both memorable and significant.
He extended his gratitude to Comrade Fidelis Egugbo, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and his family for offering Maris Hall as a Mass Centre to serve the spiritual needs of Catholics and other Christians residing in the Maris Schools vicinity.
Encouraging the congregation, Fr. Konyeke urged the assembled Catholics to work towards establishing a parish in the area. “All of us must contribute to the growth of the Church. We should not wait for problems to arise before acting. Let us build this place in love and unity and lay the foundation for a vibrant parish.”
He also commended Rev. Fr. Andrew Mozia, the priest in charge of the Mass Centre, for his dedication in reaching out to parishioners despite the logistical challenges of the area, which often requires him to travel by motorcycle.
The well-attended Mass saw Comrade Egugbo and his family, alongside the staff, management, and students of Maris Schools, gather to give thanks to God.
The service also featured a thanksgiving from Lion Anthony Chukwu, the Special Assistant on Non-Indigenes and Community Development to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who celebrated seventeen years of marriage with his family and friends, among other groups and individuals.
This Mass holds added historical significance, as Rev. Fr. Konyeke had also officiated the opening ceremony of Maris Schools on 25 July 2018, an event attended by dignitaries, including the former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan.
