In a deliberate continuation of his pastoral outreach across the diocese, the Bishop of Ahiara, Most Rev. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, CMF, made his first official visit to St. Patrick’s Parish, Akpodim, Ezinihitte Mbaise, from April 25 to 26, 2026, strengthening the faithful through teaching, presence, and the conferral of the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The visit created room for direct interaction with parishioners while also providing moments of catechetical instruction, particularly for the candidates preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
At the Sunday Mass of April 26 (Good Shepherd and Vocations Sunday), which marked the high point of the visit, the bishop presided and conferred confirmation, sealing the candidates with the Holy Spirit and calling them into a more conscious participation in the Church’s mission.
In his homily, he presented Christ as the Good Shepherd, not only as an article of belief but also as a pattern of leadership, one who gives life in its fullness and whose authority is revealed in self-giving love.
From this image, the bishop issued a clear charge to leaders at all levels, particularly parents, urging them to model their lives on Christ’s example, where responsibility is sustained by sacrifice and guided by humility, the mark of every true shepherd.
He further invited the faithful to align themselves with the universal Church in honoring Francis of Assisi, whose renunciation of privilege and lifelong commitment to peace and charity remain a compelling witness. The bishop encouraged the parish to embrace these same virtues as a lived response to the Gospel.
Addressing the newly confirmed, he urged them to take seriously the grace they had received, reminding them that the sacraments are not just symbolic moments but enduring sources of strength for a life of faith.
In his remarks, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Jude Okoro, expressed gratitude to the bishop for the visit, acknowledging both its spiritual significance and its impact on the life of the parish, while Mr. Callistus Obasi, on behalf of the parishioners, welcomed the bishop and outlined both appreciation and areas of need within the parish.
Taken as a whole, it is believed that this pastoral visit has left in its wake a strengthened sense of faith and belonging, as the parish, renewed in spirit, will continue its commitment to both parish and diocesan responsibilities.
