New Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. On 11 September 2021 seven novices, Achukwu Anthony, Gofung John, Nnabuihe Justus, Nwakuba Stanislaus, Obasi Valentine, Seidu Bright and Ugwumba Jonathan made their first vows while Okereke Kelechi and Onuegbu Venatius, CMFF made their perpetual professions in the Congregation. The event took place at St. Anthony Mary Claret Church Area ‘A’ New Owerri, Imo State.
At the Eucharistic celebration presided over by the Provincial Vicar, Fr. Perpetus Igwe, CMF, Frs. Kenneth Oguejiofor and Anthony Azinta, CMFF were the official witnesses while Fr Jude Anyanwu, CMF the Novice Master was the homilist. About twenty priests, a handful religious sisters, the Lay Claretians and the families and friends of the professandi were present.
Explaining the meaning of the vows in his homily, Fr Jude Anyanwu quoting the Pope emeritus Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger) said: “Eros imposes itself on you…it is grasping and selfish, but we are called to Agape which transforms, universalizes and opens us up to humanity. It opens us up to the fire of God’s love.” He further urged the professandi to emulate Abraham whose faith was like a GPS that led him to the promised land, so also, the love of Christ which impels us (2Cor 5:14) makes us available for mission; helps us to pull our resources together in community and in the spirit of poverty; and it makes us open to say ‘Yes’ in obedience to God’s call and eventually leads us to eternity-the promised land.
After the solemn celebration of the Holy Mass, the students entertained the guests with a resounding cultural display at a brief reception which was organized by the province.
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