Owerri, Nigeria: The Claretian Missionaries of the East Nigeria Province recently celebrated a momentous occasion with their XI Provincial Assembly, held from September 25 to 28, 2024, at the Claretian Institute of Philosophy in Maryland, Nekede, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. This assembly, held two years after the VIII Provincial Chapter, was a time of spiritual renewal, reflection, and discernment, following the annual Provincial Retreat, which took place from September 22 to 25, 2024.
The Assembly was presided over by Fr. Pedro Belderrain, CMF, the General Prefect of Apostolate, who represented the Superior General, Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF. More than 149 Claretian missionaries from Nigeria, Ghana, and Chad participated, reflecting the wide reach of the Province’s mission.
Fr. Nathaniel Eke CMF, who led the closing Holy Mass, acknowledged the commitment and sacrifices made by the participants. During the Assembly, Fr. Pedro conveyed the General Superior’s message of thanksgiving, encouragement, and guidance for future growth, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges, fostering unity, and advancing the mission, following the example of St. Anthony Mary Claret, the founder of the congregation.
A significant part of the event was the celebration of the 25th priestly ordination anniversaries of Frs Hilarion Ekeanyanwu, Godwin Uzoma, and Francis Adile, CMFF along with the first religious professions of Frs. Jude Anyanwu and Ugo CMFF. This milestone reflects the deep commitment to their vocation and the growth of the Claretian community in the region.
The assembly concluded with a Jubilee tree to mark the 175th Anniversary of the Congregation, symbolizing the mission’s ongoing growth and the flourishing of faith, following in the footsteps of St. Claret.
