“THINKLESS OF THE WORLD BUT THE WORD OF GOD” SAYS FR. ANETEKHAI
The diocesan director of Social Communications and Editor-in-chief of THE PROMISE Newspaper, Rev. Fr. Leonard Anetekhai, has stressed the need for faithful to take time off their material possessions and pursuit and focus on the word of God inorder to fill their lives with spiritual riches which cannot be stolen or destroyed.
This call was made recently at the Eucharistic celebration to mark the 62nd birthday ceremony of Mrs Alice Azebiokhai at St. Theresa Parish, Fugar.
Giving the homily at the thanksgiving mass concelebrated with Rev. Ferdinand Okafor and a host of Revs., Fr. Anetekhai emphasized on the need for faithful to reflect on the good deeds of the Lord in their lives and faithfully serve Him, as most people have forgotten their reason of living, in pursuit of material wealth.
He further reminded the congregation that it is not their length of days that matter, but their relationship with others, how they have been able to contribute positively and made positive imparts in the lives of all around them and the society at large.
Referring to the Gospel of the day, Fr. Anetekhai enjoined all present to be engulfed in the things of God rather than worldly pleasures, while urging them to be steadfast in their faith and place their safety in the hands of the Lord.
Also, he lamented that many Christians have sold their souls to the devil and lost their salvation in the pursuit of wealth, while some have been carried away by false doctrines and practices owing to their failure to be true ambassadors of Christ.
More, the priest called on parents to teach their children and wards the true way of the Lord and to ensure they always attend masses and Church activities, while tasking the youths to shun all activities that will bring shame to their families, society and the Church.
Highlight of the mass was a joyful thanksgiving procession to the altar by Mrs Alice Azebiokhai and family, friends and well wishers, thanking God for the gift of life.
During the reception at her residence, Sir A.B.C. Nasamu led the opening prayers and also chaired the occasion in which he thanked God for the gift of life on Mrs Azebiokhai and emphasized that it is worth celebrating the goodness of the Lord.
Climax of the occasion was the cutting of the birthday cake by Mrs Azebiokhai with her children.