The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ celebrated in a style the Diamond, Golden and Silver Jubilee of some of their Sisters last Sunday at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha.
Three Sisters were for Diamond Jubilee, thirteen were for Golden and twenty-one of them were for the Silver Jubilee.
Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke led the Congregation at the solemn Mass of thanksgiving in honor of the celebration. The celebration attracted a host of Monsignori and priests from different dioceses of East and West of the country.
In his homily, Archbishop Okeke, referring to the readings of the day, reminded the Sisters that there are two ways in life; the way of wisdom and the way of foolishness. He enjoined all to follow the way of wisdom.
The Prelate further said that Jubilee is God’s special intervention in our lives. “It is a time of giving thanks”, he said. He continued that there are many ways of giving thanks which include giving something tangible – sacrifice and forgiveness.
Within the Mass, the Jubilarians presented their special Jubilee Symbol with a theme from the scripture which read, ‘Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path’ (Psalm 110:105).
Mother Maureen Akabogu, the Superior General of the IHM Sisters who was present with her Councillors and other Sisters received the symbol from the Jubilarians.
Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion was the traditional ruler of Onitsha – Obi Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi) and his cabinet. Two Sisters indigene of Onitsha were among the Golden and Silver Jubilarians.
Families of the Jubilarians, co-workers, friends and well wishers from their different places of apostolate were in their numbers to support and rejoice with the Sisters.
After the Holy Mass, the Jubilarians were celebrated and entertained at the Basilica arena. The joy of the day was vibrant and infectious for all who were present at the occasion.
Sr. Mary Judith Ezeogu, IHM