C.W.O of Mater Misericordiae Catholic Parish, Port Harcourt Visits Holy Ghost Haven, Mgbidi

 

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12). This timeless commandment found beautiful expression on Saturday, November 16, 2024, as the Catholic Women Organization (C.W.O) of Mater Misericordiae Parish, Rumuomasi, Port Harcourt, in partnership with the Spiritan Healthcare Apostolate (HECAP), paid a heartfelt visit to the Holy Ghost Haven in Mgbidi Community. The delegation, led by the C.W.O President, Dr. Mrs. Rita Obizie, was supported by their Parish Priest, Fr. Sabinus Nwosu, C.S.Sp, and other members of the parish pastoral team. The visit, a profound act of love and service, commenced with the celebration of the Holy Mass at 10:45 a.m.

The Provincial Superior, Fr. Austin Nwosu, C.S.Sp, presided over the Mass and concelebrated by priests from Holy Ghost Haven and neighboring Spiritan communities. In his homily, Fr. Valentine Ezeh, C.S.Sp, the Second Assistant to the Provincial, reminded the congregation that the essence of life lies in doing God’s will. He emphasized the significant role the elderly play in the Church and society, commending the C.W.O’s gesture of love as a gospel in action.

As the Mass drew to a close, Dr. Mrs. Rita Obizie expressed her gratitude to God for the opportunity to visit. She presented gifts and financial support for the ongoing construction of the New Retirement Home Project. Responding, Fr. Desmond Agbaka, C.S.Sp, the Community Superior of Holy Ghost Haven, thanked the mothers for their generosity and prayed for God’s blessings upon them.

The Director of the Spiritan Healthcare Apostolate, Fr. Anthony Nduka, C.S.Sp, also extended his appreciation to the C.W.O for their unwavering support of the Apostolate’s mission. The Provincial Superior, Fr. Austin Nwosu, C.S.Sp, echoed these sentiments, urging the mothers to make the visit an annual tradition. He lauded the efforts of Fr. Damasus Okoro, C.S.Sp, Director/Administrator of Holy Ghost Hospital, and Fr. Vincent Ibeh, C.S.Sp, Director of Holy Ghost Haven, for their dedication. Particularly touching was the recognition of two nonagenarian confreres, Fr. Francis Okonkwo, C.S.Sp and Fr. Isaac Madu, C.S.Sp, whose lives of service continue to inspire younger generations.

After the Mass, guests gathered for a vibrant reception. The program featured drama, choreography, dance, and other performances by the Mater Misericordiae C.W.O. Special moments included the presentation of customized vests to Fr. Francis Okonkwo, C.S.Sp, and the Provincial Superior, followed by the cutting of a celebratory cake. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by the mothers, fostering a spirit of joy and togetherness. The event concluded at 3:25 p.m. with a closing prayer led by Fr. Francis Okonkwo, C.S.Sp.

The visit left an indelible mark on both the visitors and the Holy Ghost Haven community. It served as a reminder of the dignity and respect owed to our elders, whose sacrifices have paved the way for the present. The C.W.O’s initiative was a testament to the power of love in action, creating memories that will remain evergreen in the hearts of the retired and elderly confreres. Indeed, honoring our elders is not just a duty but a celebration of the legacy they leave behind—a legacy of faith, service, and perseverance.