From 11 to 12 April 2026, His Lordship, Most Rev. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, CMF, made his maiden pastoral visitation to St. Matthias Parish, Aguneze, during which one hundred and twenty-three candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The visit, which included pastoral interactions with parish leadership, traditional authorities, and the candidates, culminated in the Sunday Eucharistic celebration presided over by the bishop.
In his homily for Divine Mercy Sunday, he reflected on the inexhaustible depth of God’s mercy, made manifest in the Risen Christ, and turned to the figure of Thomas, whose doubt, rather than severing him from the community, became the very path through which he arrived at a more profound confession of faith. From this, the bishop drew a lesson both direct and searching, urging the faithful not to withdraw in moments of difficulty nor to seek resolution outside the life of the Church, but to remain, to endure, and to trust that faith, when tested, is also strengthened.
Addressing the newly confirmed, he exhorted them to make living use of the gifts they had received so that what was conferred in the sacrament might become visible in action.
The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Augustine Amadi, welcomed the Bishop and priests present. While the welcome address was delivered by Lady Cecilia Emecheta, who expressed the gratitude of the parish community.
It was a remarkable day in the life of the parishioners of St. Mathias Catholic Church, Aguneze, as the bishop’s visit reinvigorated their faith and zeal to worship God.
