By Adolphus Ofoegbulem
It was a day of joy and thanksgiving for the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ibeku Okwuato, as they welcomed the Bishop of Ahiara Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, CMF, on his maiden pastoral visit to the parish on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
The historic visit included the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation to 96 candidates. The two-day pastoral engagement began on Saturday, August 8, with an interactive session between the Bishop and parishioners, who used the occasion to commend the parish priest and his collaborators for their pastoral commitment, share their challenges and receive pastoral guidance and encouragement from the Bishop.
Bishop Nwobi presided over the Eucharistic celebration on Sunday, concelebrated by several priests, and in his homily urged the faithful to remain firmly focused on God amid the storms of life.
Reflecting on the Prophet Elijah’s encounter with God, the Bishop noted that God does not always speak through noise and spectacle, but can make Himself known in the gentle stillness that brings consolation and renewed strength to His people.
Turning to the Gospel account of Jesus walking on the water, he drew a parallel between Peter’s experience and the Christian journey, noting that believers can navigate life’s turbulent waters when their gaze remains fixed on Christ, but begin to falter when fear and distraction take their attention away from Him.
Life with God, he noted, is not always smooth or free from difficulty; rather, trials can become occasions through which faith is tested, purified and strengthened.
Addressing the newly confirmed, Bishop Nwobi urged them to recognise the gifts of the Holy Spirit as gifts for Christian witness and service, rather than privileges to be kept for themselves. He cautioned them against irresponsible living, fraud and fleeting distractions, encouraging them instead to acquire useful skills, make sound choices and seek God’s guidance from an early age.
“The future begins now,” he reminded them.
In his vote of thanks, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Christopher Anyanwu, SDV, welcomed the Bishop and all those who participated in the celebration, congratulated the newly confirmed and expressed gratitude for the Bishop’s fatherly presence and pastoral exhortation.
The Parish Pastoral Council Chairman, Sir M.A. Abara, also presented a welcome address on behalf of the parish community, expressing appreciation for the Bishop’s visit.
Bishop Nwobi, in his concluding remarks, thanked God for the success of the pastoral visit, congratulated the newly confirmed and commended the parishioners for their vibrant faith, urging them to remain steadfast and continue growing together as a Christian community
