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Historic Pastoral Visit by Bishop Obodo Concludes at St. Mary’s Parish, OwoSt. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Owo, Enugu Dioc...
20/10/2025

Historic Pastoral Visit by Bishop Obodo Concludes at St. Mary’s Parish, Owo

St. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Owo, Enugu Diocese, was aglow with spiritual fervor as it hosted a memorable three-day pastoral visit by the Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo, from Friday, October 17, to Sunday, October 19, 2025. The visit, marked by catechesis, sacramental celebrations, and a unique blend of faith and culture, left an indelible mark on the Owo community.

The visit commenced on Friday evening with a catechesis and interactive session led by Bishop Obodo, who engaged the faithful with teachings and answered their questions, fostering a deeper understanding of the faith.

Saturday brought a wave of joy as 27 couples received the Sacrament of Matrimony, with Bishop Obodo blessing their unions in a heartfelt ceremony. After the wedding celebration, the bishop proceeded to lay the foundation stone of St. Patrick's Church Ndiagu-Owo, which was an outstation under the mother parish, St. Mary.

Later that evening, the community gathered at Ishiagu Village Square for a historic event blending faith and culture, orchestrated by Rev. Fr. Joseph Ezechi, Chairman of the Diocesan Inculturation Commission. The celebration honored Pa Gabriel Nnajichi, Owo’s eldest man, in a moment of dialogue that resonated deeply with the community. During a Mass at the square, Bishop Obodo blessed two crucifixes—one presented to Pa Gabriel as a symbol of authority and the other to be mounted at his compound. The bishop also blessed a new house built by Igwe Godwin Arum of Mbulu-Owo, drawing a large crowd of faithful and community members.

The visit culminated on Sunday with a vibrant Mass, during which Bishop Obodo administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to over 140 candidates. In his homily, he urged the faithful to remain steadfast, likening them to Moses as intercessors who surrender their challenges to God. He lauded Pa Gabriel Nnajichi for his unwavering commitment to Christianity despite pressures to revert to traditional pagan worship. Bishop Obodo expressed gratitude to the Owo community for their warm hospitality, commending the Parish Priest, altar servers, and the Charismatic Renewal members for donating a crucifix to Pa Gabriel.

Within the mass , the bishop blessed and vested the two catechists, Mr. Emmanuel Nnaji and Mr. Peter Aja, who were warmly received by the congregation.

Fr. Adesius Agu, the Parish Priest, radiated joy as he thanked Bishop Obodo for his fatherly care and spiritual support. He extended gratitude to Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mba, a son of Owo, as well as the priests, religious, Parish Pastoral Council, and committee members. Fr. Agu also acknowledged the contributions of the Christian fathers, mothers, youth, and children in making the visit a success.

The visit concluded with Bishop Obodo blessing the newly constructed Grotto of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, invoking Mary’s intercession for the parish. The three-day event was a profound moment of spiritual enrichment and communal unity, leaving the people of Owo inspired and renewed in their faith.

Seminarians of St. Bernard Seminary Hostel Embark on Jubilee Year of Hope PilgrimageThe Rector of St. Bernard Seminary H...
19/10/2025

Seminarians of St. Bernard Seminary Hostel Embark on Jubilee Year of Hope Pilgrimage

The Rector of St. Bernard Seminary Hostel with other formators, seminarians, and the various institutions within Emene Deanery of the diocese of Enugu observed the Jubilee Year of Hope Pilgrimage at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Emene. The gathering done in the spirit of the Holy Year was aimed at obtaining the Plenary Indulgence and renewing the faithful’s trust in God’s mercy and hope.

The celebration began with the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, led by the Dean of Emene Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Victor Eze, followed by the recitation of Psalm 51, the Sacrament of Confession, and 20 decades of the Holy Rosary. Prayer intentions included growth in holiness, the triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, peace and good governance in Nigeria, economic stability, God’s mercy on victims of violence, release of captives, forgiveness for past injustices, and individual and family intentions.

The event climaxed with the Holy Mass, presided over by the seminary rector Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Liberatus Isife, assisted by Rev. Fr. Lazarus Alor and Rev. Fr. Michael Ikechukwu Ngwu. In his homily, Very Rev. Fr. Callistus Aneke encouraged the faithful never to lose heart despite present economic and social challenges, but to remain steadfast as agents of hope in their communities.
He emphasized that: “Hope is not a distant dream; it is a living reality.”

The celebration concluded with a joyful moment as cakes brought by various parishes were cut in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday, celebrated on September 8th. This gesture symbolized unity, joy, and devotion to the Mother of Hope.

The day ended with renewed faith and a deepened commitment to live out the message of the Jubilee Year of Hope trusting in God’s promises and spreading His light in the world.

STORY OF FAITH: Pa Gabriel Nnajichi, 110 Years, Defies Pagan Roots Embraces Christian "Onyeishi" Title in Historic Cerem...
19/10/2025

STORY OF FAITH: Pa Gabriel Nnajichi, 110 Years, Defies Pagan Roots Embraces Christian "Onyeishi" Title in Historic Ceremony

The people of Owo Catholic Community and indeed Owo indigenes of Enugu State, in a display of culture and unity, gathered on Saturday, October 18, to honor their eldest member, Pa Gabriel Nnajichi Nwamba, who was recognized as the "Onyeishi Owo" which is a title given to the eldest man of the community.

Pa Gabriel was a convert to the Christian Faith at a later stage of his life. Being a man deep into traditional worship, he held the position of "Attama" and other traditional positions before his conversion. Originally, one who is to receive this title will perform a series of cultural rites which are contrary to the Christian Faith, and be given a deity to be consulting on behalf of the people. But Pa Gabriel being a Christian decided to break this tradition, insisting that he will do it the Christian way despite pressure from within and without, from townspeople and some family members alike.

The colorful event, held at Ishiagu Village Square, was graced by His Lordship, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Diocese who was on a pastoral visit to St. Mary Parish Owo; Fr. Joseph Ezechi, Chairman Diocesan Inculturation Commision; Fr. Adesius Agu, the Parish Priest of St Mary Parish, Owo; the first indigenous priest of Owo, Fr. Nnajiofor David and other priests from Owo, traditional leaders like Igwe Godwin Okeke Arum of Mbulu-Owo, and parishioners. The bishop was warmly welcomed by Rev. Fr. Joseph Ezechi, who delivered the opening address and explained the purpose of the occasion which was dialogue with the Faith with the culture and people of Owo.

Fr. Ezechi emphasized that the Church is not against cultural traditions (omenala) but rather encourages customs that promote peace, unity, and moral living. He reminded the people to uphold the good aspects of their heritage while avoiding harmful practices.

In his address, Bishop Obodo praised the Owo people for harmonizing faith and culture, saying that tradition and Christianity can coexist peacefully. He noted that freedom of religion is guaranteed in Nigeria, and no one should be criticized or persecuted for choosing to embrace either faith or tradition.
“There is nothing wrong in celebrating your culture while serving God,” the bishop said. “Every culture should be dynamic and rooted in peace and love.”

The bishop praised Pa Gabriel as a man of heroic virtue and a saint. He praised his courage to stand firm despite pressures from various quarters.

During the event, there were questions and answer sessions and people made their contributions too. Igwe Godwin Arum who spoke first noted that the church wasn't against culture and that people need to be allowed to practice their faith in true conscience. He noted that nobody should deny another person his due because he isn't a traditionalist. He maintained that the "Onyeishi" is a heritage of the eldest man and by ballot.

Mrs. Blessing Edeh, a native of Owo, thanked God for the gift of life and the bishop’s presence, urging the people to “give to God what belongs to God.” Mr. Joseph Nnamani also spoke, encouraging the audience to accept Christ into their lives and remain steadfast in their faith.

The ceremony continued with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Bishop Obodo. In his homily, he stressed the importance of gratitude and peace within the community. The Eucharistic celebration followed, and the Parish Priest Fr. Adesius, personally administered communion to Chief Nnajichi while the choir filled the air with songs of praise.

After the Mass, two ceremonial crosses were presented for blessing—one from the diocese and another from the Charismatic members of the community. The bishop prayed over them and handed one to Chief Nnajichi as a sign of divine authority in Christ as the eldest man. The other cross is to be placed in his compound as a symbol that it has become a sacred place where the village assembly can gather for deliberations.

In his vote of thanks, Fr. Ezechi expressed appreciation to the bishop, priests, and the people of Owo for their cooperation and hospitality. He encouraged anyone seeking understanding about Christianity to feel free to visit the Church.

The celebration concluded with the bishop visiting and blessing the new home, where the consecrated cross was placed. The day ended joyfully with refreshments, traditional dances, and entertainment, marking a memorable moment of unity between culture and faith in Owo community.

In an interview with the Choice Flame Newspaper after the event, Pa Gabriel Nnajichi, who spoke in his native dialect encouraged all Christians to be steadfast in faith even unto death. He noted that it was his faith in Jesus and the reward of heaven that informed his resilience in the face of opposition to his faith.

PICTURE STORY FROM THE DIOCESAN ROSARY PROCESSION HELD TODAYToday, together with our Bishop, Most Rev. C.V.C. Onaga, we ...
18/10/2025

PICTURE STORY FROM THE DIOCESAN ROSARY PROCESSION HELD TODAY

Today, together with our Bishop, Most Rev. C.V.C. Onaga, we held a rosary procession which started from the Holy Ghost Cathedral through the Ziks Avenue route, and back to the cathedral. A large number of the faithful gathered for this prayer rally.

We prayed the Rosary for peace and security of life and property in the South East, and for the success of the forthcoming Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod.

Always pray your rosary for the Rosary Is The Answer (RITA)


SEVEN NEW SAINTS INCLUDING AN EX-SATANIST TO BE CANONIZED BY POPE LEO XIV ON OCTOBER 19
18/10/2025

SEVEN NEW SAINTS INCLUDING AN EX-SATANIST TO BE CANONIZED BY POPE LEO XIV ON OCTOBER 19

Araceli Aid Foundation Academy Marks First Anniversary with Thanksgiving and Growth MilestonesAraceli Aid Foundation Aca...
17/10/2025

Araceli Aid Foundation Academy Marks First Anniversary with Thanksgiving and Growth Milestones

Araceli Aid Foundation Academy (AAFA) on Thursday October 17, 2025 marked its first anniversary with a thanksgiving celebration attended by His Lordship, Most Rev. Callistus V.C. Onaga, Bishop of Enugu Diocese, who commended the school for its rapid growth and commitment to faith-based education.

Upon arrival the national anthem and pledge, were sung, and a parade by the students in which the Bishop received their salute.

The mass began, led by Bishop Onaga and conclebrated by a number of priests in attendance. In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the importance of faith, discipline, and truth in the lives of young Christians, drawing lessons from the life of St. Ignatius of Antioch, who he described as a model of steadfast devotion and moral courage.

“Wrong teachings are as dangerous as wild things,” Bishop Onaga cautioned. “We must avoid false doctrines and uphold the discipline we have been taught.”
Quoting Luke 12:1–7, he urged the congregation not to fear death but to live righteously, emphasizing that freedom of religion remains vital in today’s world. He also spoke on the positive and negative impacts of social media, warning students to use it responsibly and to uphold Christian values in all they do.

The Bishop further advised students to shun examination malpractice and immoral behavior, stressing that such actions destroy moral integrity and hinder true learning. He encouraged them to pursue education, knowledge, and skill acquisition as tools for service and self-reliance.

Before the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Bishop tested candidates’ understanding of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC). About 30 students received the sacrament during the Mass.
This was followed by the Prayer of the faithful , and offertory thanksgiving by students, teachers, and parents.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Rev. Fr. Christian Iroha, Founder and Director of Araceli Aid Foundation Academy. The School Prefect also gave a speech, expressing gratitude to God and the Foundation for one year of excellence.

“Founded on September 15, 2023, with just 102 students, AAFA now has over 270 students and 75 pupils in the Nursery and Basic sections,” the prefect said.
“Supported by donors from the United States, the Foundation has offered scholarships, empowerment programs, and humanitarian aid to the less privileged. In one year, we have achieved great success — including second place in a WHO debate — and established a Fashion House, Bakery, Music Studio, E-Learning Library, and ICT/CBT Hub.”

The Principal, Mrs. Esomchi Justina A., in her anniversary address, lauded the school’s progress and thanked Bishop Onaga for his support, Miss Ann Rossmeier for her generosity, and Fr. Iroha for his visionary leadership. She praised the teachers, parents, and students for their unity and hard work, noting that the academy has embraced digital learning under the SMART School Initiative and continues to uphold academic excellence and moral integrity.

“Our first anniversary is not the end,” she said, “but the dawn of greater achievements ahead.”

After the Mass, photographs were taken with students, coordinators, and clergy. The bishop then proceeded to bless and commission the newly built ICT/CBT Center and Craft Educational Centre.

In an interview with Choice Flame Newspaper, Fr. Iroha, who also chairs the Board of Trustees, explained that the academy was founded to combine education with skill development, enabling students to graduate with hands-on experience in fashion design, baking, barbing, hair braiding, and wig making, among others.

He also addressed public misconceptions about the school’s funding, clarifying that it was established through the Araceli Aid Foundation’s humanitarian outreach, not church funds.

A parent, Mrs. Chimnoyerem Okoye, commended the academy’s dedication to the academic and moral growth of students, describing the teachers as “accommodating and supportive.”

Similarly, Chimgozirim Nwobodo, a JSS 2 student, praised the school’s discipline and high moral standards, saying it has made a positive impact on his life.

The celebration ended with joy, cultural display, dance, cutting of anniversary cake, refreshments and entertainment, thanksgiving, and renewed commitment to the academy’s mission — to nurture future leaders grounded in faith, knowledge, and character.

THE FOURTH ENUGU DIOCESAN SYNOD (2025)OverviewA Synod is simply an ecclesiastical assembly where a local church and its ...
17/10/2025

THE FOURTH ENUGU DIOCESAN SYNOD (2025)

Overview
A Synod is simply an ecclesiastical assembly where a local church and its congregation convene to prayerfully reflect upon their blessings and the fundamental message of the Good News. They subsequently respond with faith-based perspectives to their pastoral challenges. Technically, Synod is a Greek word (synodos) meaning a meeting, gathering or assembly. The two Greek words that make up synod are syn meaning together and hodos meaning way or journey – hence, journeying together. Synod is a general term for ecclesiastical gatherings under hierarchical authority, for the discussion and decision of matters relating to faith, morals, or discipline.

Clearly, a diocesan synod is an "assembly" of selected priests and other members of Christ's faithful of a particular Church which, for the good of the whole diocesan community, assists the diocesan Bishop" (Can. 460). In fact, the purpose of the diocesan Synod is to assist the Bishop in the exercise of the office proper to him, namely, that of governing the Christian community. Therefore, a diocesan Synod is an assembly convoked by the bishop, to discern, in accordance with the Holy Spirit, answers to important questions for the Church. They generally deal with how we can best live out our faith in practice. A synod can be thought of as a type of family meeting. By this analogy, the bishops are like the head of a household, with responsibility for the Church and authority to make decisions for her. In order to make the best possible decisions, they check in with the rest of the family and ask for our experiences and input. Then, taking everything into consideration, they make the decision.

In a world increasingly shaped by technology, shifting ideologies, and the erosion of traditional and religious values, the Catholic Church in Enugu Diocese is gearing up for a historic gathering that renews its pastoral zeal in dealing with these emerging trends. The 4th Enugu Diocesan Synod with the theme Faith and Practice in Enugu Diocese: Opportunities and challenges, slated from November 16 to 22, 2025 is being heralded as a pivotal moment for the Church in Enugu to confront emerging societal and religious challenges head-on.
According to the Decree of Convocation of the Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod (2025) by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callitus Onaga on 19 May, 2024 (Solemnity of Pentecost), “ The Diocesan Synod is an expression of the Church as a people of God who are in communion with one another, journey together in faith and participate actively in the mission of Christ, in accordance with the condition proper to each (c.204) and with the aim to offer assistance to the diocesan Bishop for the good of the whole diocesan community” (c. 460)

It is good to know that the last (Third) Diocesan Synod for the Catholic Diocese of Enugu (2013) convoked by Bishop Onaga under the theme: “Renewing the Mission and Identity of the Church in Enugu Diocese in Service to Integral Education, Reconciliation and Human Development” was in fact a success. Within the last ten years, the diocese has implemented its synodal declarations and decrees for the growth of the Christian faith and overall development of our Diocese.

Reflecting on the need for the 4th Synod of Enugu Diocese after 10 years, the Decree of Convocation of the Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod states: since the last Diocesan Synod was convoked, the manner of living out the Christian faith in the society, and among the Clergy, Members of the Consecrated Life and the Laity, has tremendously changed. New pastoral challenges, new questions and dangers concerning our faith in everyday life have emerged, especially in the face of the new developments in the social media and the revival of idol worship (neo paganism) in our local society. Therefore, after prayerful reflection and due consultations with the Presbyteral Council and other participative organs of the Diocese, and following the provisions of cc.460-468, I hereby convoke the Fourth Synod of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, which will begin on November 16, 2025 and end on November 22, 2025”. To be sure, the Fourth Enugu Synod reflects the contemporary challenges to Christian faith in our society, with the aim of proffering practical plans and guides for authentic Christian Life.

The Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod was convoked with the inauguration of the Synod Preparatory Committee (SPC). The Synod Preparatory Committee constituted by the Bishop and chaired by Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke is to assist the Bishop in matters pertaining to the organization and preparation of the Synod in accordance with the “Instructions on Diocesan Synods”(1997).

Members of the Synod Preparatory Committee (SPC) include:
Rev. Fr. Christian Anieke Chairman
Rev. Fr. Wilfred Agubuchie Diocesan Chancellor/Secretary
Rev. Fr. Liberatus Isife Synod Secretary I
Rev. Fr. Anthony Aneke Synod Secretary II
Msgr. Obiora Ike Member
Msgr. Anthony Anijielo Member
Rev. Fr. Alfred Emeka Nwoye Member
Rev. Fr. Michael Chime Member
Rev. Fr. Ikechukwu Ani Member
Rev. Fr. Joseph Uche Nnajiofor Member
Rev. Fr. Joseph Ahukanna OP Member
Rev. Fr. Cletus Obasi CMF Member
Rev. Fr. Joseph Ezechi Member
Rev. Fr. Matthias Odigbo Member
Deans of the Deaneries Members
Sr. Mary Benedicta Odoh DDL Member
Sr. Mary Gloria Iloka IHM Member
Presidents of the Lay Statutory Groups (CMO, CWO, CYMO, CYWO) as well as other experts and members of the Christian Faithful who shall be co-opted into the commission.

At the end of the decree, Bishop Onaga encouraged members of the Christian faithful to prayer fervently for the success of the Synod (Prayer for Enugu Diocesan Synod) and give their maximum support to this significant event of the Diocese. He prayed that all those who shall participate in the Synod will be filled with wisdom, knowledge and understanding so as to contribute constructively to the Synod for the welfare and growth of our Diocese.

JOURNEY SO FAR
First Phase: Lineamenta (working guideline)
Quite frankly, the diocesan synod is an opportunity for deep reflection, dialogue and participation. After the convocation of the synod last year 2024, the SPC gathered informed imputs, issues and suggestions from Clergy, members of the Consecrated life, and Lay faithful in the Diocese which were proposed for deliberations by the SPC from which the Main Synodal theme and sub themes were derived upon the approval of the Diocesan Bishop, - Hence, Faith and Practice in Enugu Diocese: Opportunities and Challenges.

In order to position the diocesan synod in the right participatory perspective, it was expected that the faithful should respond to these issues contained in the themes of the Synod. The initial document, known as the Lineamenta, provides guidelines for generating meaningful responses concerning the Synod's themes. Clearly, the Lineamenta contains questions generated from the sub-themes of the 2025 Synod. The SPC ensured that the Lineamenta reached the people of God in the deaneries, parishes, houses of formation, institutions, and religious houses in order to collate responses to the Lineamenta before 30th November 2024. These responses from God's people to the questions posed in the Lineamenta aided in the preparation of the Instrumentum Laboris, a working document for the Synod.

Second Phase: Instrumentum Laboris (working document)
The Instrumentum Laboris (IL) contains responses to the Lineamenta examined thoroughly by members of the Synod Preparatory Committee for the purpose of generating thoughts, profound discussions, and prayerful discernment during the Fourth Synod of Enugu Diocese (16 to 22 November 2025)
Parishes, academic institutions, houses of formation, religious communities, and sons and daughters of the Diocese in the diaspora have discussed the questions raised in the Lineamenta intensively and in the spirit of Christian charity as the apostles did in the gospel (Acts 15: 6-21). The responses of the people of God in the discussion and listening phase are indeed the fruit of sincere and respectful dialogue under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26).

The first phase of the discussions focuses on deepening our faith, while the second phase centres on opportunities to practise it. The last phase deals with the challenges of faith practice. The dynamic nature of the discourse on the Lineamenta gives the people of God in Enugu Diocese the opportunity to draw closer to one another and listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit (Rev. 3:22), who opens Himself to us in our prayerful reflection.

Third Phase: The Synod (Paper presentations and Interventions)
It is hoped that the Instrumentum Laboris will assist all invited speakers and delegates as well as all participants during the Synod Deliberations (16th – 22nd November) in the synod to understand what has already been discussed at all levels in the Diocese in order to present papers or make interventions that, in the light of the Holy Spirit (Galations 5:25), will lead to fruitful resolutions during this Synod. The synodal proceedings, declarations and decrees which will be implemented immediately after the synod, is collated immediately after the synod in a document called THE SYNOD ACTA.

Furthermore, the purpose of a synodal process is not to produce documents but to open horizons of hope for the fulfilment of the Church’s mission. Therefore, the Fourth Synod of Enugu Diocese offers us the opportunity to reflect on the practice of our faith, inspiring an awareness of opportunities and challenges in the practice of our faith today.

October 17—St. Ignatius of Antioch St. Ignatius of Antioch, also called Theophorus, was born around 50 AD in Syria and d...
17/10/2025

October 17—St. Ignatius of Antioch

St. Ignatius of Antioch, also called Theophorus, was born around 50 AD in Syria and died in Rome between 98 and 117 AD. Tradition holds he was the third Bishop of Antioch, appointed by St. Peter himself, and a close follower of the Apostle John.

When Emperor Trajan persecuted Christians, Ignatius courageously led his community in Syria. Arrested and brought before Trajan, he boldly confessed his faith and was sentenced to martyrdom in Rome, where he was killed by wild beasts.

On his journey to Rome, fellow Christians warmly welcomed and supported him. From Smyrna and Troas, he wrote inspiring letters to various churches, urging unity, obedience, and steadfast faith amidst trials.

His writings strongly affirm early Church doctrines: the divine foundation and unity of the Church, the authority of bishops, the Eucharist, the Incarnation, and the value of prayer and chastity.

Though some letters attributed to him were later disputed, the seven genuine epistles remain vital testimonies of Apostolic teaching, cherished even by critical scholars. St. Ignatius’s life exemplifies unwavering dedication, spiritual zeal, and pastoral care.

The Church celebrates his feast on October 17, honoring his witness as a true soldier of Christ who laid down his life for his faith.

Prayer:
Lord God, through the example of St. Ignatius, grant us courage to stand firm in faith, love that unites Your Church, and strength to endure trials with hope. May we follow his path of sacrificial love and loyalty, trusting in Your eternal promises. Amen.

The latest Vatican statistics reveal that Africa has become the new center of growth for the Catholic Church, with boomi...
17/10/2025

The latest Vatican statistics reveal that Africa has become the new center of growth for the Catholic Church, with booming vocations, expanding congregations, and a vibrant faith life that now shapes the global Church’s future. According to the Pontifical Yearbook 2025 and the Annuarium Statisticum Ecclesiae 2023, released in March, Africa recorded a 2.7% increase in the number of priests in 2023, adding 1,285 new clergy despite a global decline. The continent now counts 54,944 priests, both diocesan and religious.
Readmorehere:https://choiceflame.com.ng/2025/10/

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque – A Life Illumined by the Sacred HeartBorn in July 1647 to Claude and Philiberte Alacoque, Ma...
16/10/2025

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque – A Life Illumined by the Sacred Heart

Born in July 1647 to Claude and Philiberte Alacoque, Margaret grew up in modest, devout surroundings. When she was eight, her father died, and from ages 9 to 13 she endured a paralysing illness that left her bedridden. During that trial she made a private vow to enter religious life, yet adolescence brought a turn toward worldly pursuits—dances, social gatherings, and thoughts of marriage.

One night, returning from a dance, she beheld a vision of Christ being scourged, which she interpreted as a rebuke for having turned away from her earlier calling. At 22 she entered the convent, seeking the path she had promised herself.

Two days after Christmas 1673, while in prayer, Margaret experienced Christ’s presence in a profound way. He revealed His desire that devotion to the Sacred Heart be promoted, inviting humanity to respond with public and private gratitude. The convent’s superior dismissed the experience as delusion, a judgment that gravely affected Margaret’s health.

In 1674 the Jesuit Father Claude de la Colombière became her spiritual director, affirmed the authenticity of her revelations, and recorded them. Though he later departed for England and died in 1681, his writings helped many to recognise the truth of the Sacred Heart. Margaret’s own accounts eventually underwent rigorous Church scrutiny, yet by then she had already found her deepest desire: “to lose myself in the heart of Jesus.”

Facing her final illness with courage, she frequently recited Psalm 73: _“What have I in heaven, and what do I desire on earth, but Thee alone, O my God?”_ She passed away on 17 October 1690 and was canonised by Pope Benedict XV in 1920.

Prayer
O God, who through Saint Margaret Mary revealed the boundless love of the Sacred Heart, grant us the grace to share in that love, to seek humility in our trials, and to extend mercy to all. Through the intercession of Saint Margaret Mary, may we find refuge in the Heart of Christ and walk faithfully in His light. Amen.

Amid growing hardship and water scarcity in Plateau State, the Catholic Bishop of Pankshin Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Go...
16/10/2025

Amid growing hardship and water scarcity in Plateau State, the Catholic Bishop of Pankshin Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Gobal Gokum, has commissioned a solar-powered water facility to provide relief for residents of Bunga and Pusit communities.Speaking during the commissioning, Bishop Gokum described the living conditions across his diocese as “dire,” citing widespread poverty and the struggle for basic necessities such as clean water, food, and healthcare. He explained that before the intervention, many families walked long distances to fetch unsafe water, often leading to illness and fatigue.
Readmorehere:https://choiceflame.com.ng/2025/10/

Parishioners of St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Bensonhurst are mourning the shocking death of Nicola Tanzi, a longtime...
16/10/2025

Parishioners of St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Bensonhurst are mourning the shocking death of Nicola Tanzi, a longtime usher remembered as a man of deep faith and kindness. Tanzi, 64, was brutally attacked in a Brooklyn subway station on October 7 and later died from his injuries.
According to police, Tanzi was beaten by 25-year-old David Mazariegos at the Jay Street–MetroTech subway station. He was rushed to New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. Readmorehere:https://choiceflame.com.ng/2025/10/

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