By: Iwunna Akunna
On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the Ahiara Diocesan Holy Childhood Association (HCA) of the Ezinihitte Region, convened at St. Patrick’s Parish, Itu Ezinihitte, to join the whole nation in celebrating the 25 years existence of the association in Nigeria.
The jubilee celebration commenced with a Mission Rosary Procession within the church premises, which was followed by a Solemn Eucharistic celebration with Rev. Fr. Darlington Nwogu-Regional Director of Ezinihitte Region as presider and other priests, religious, parishes/school animators, HCA members and numerous faithful from across the region were in attendance.
Delivering the homily, Fr. Nwogu challenged the children to embrace their missionary identity by living lives of obedience, discipline and exemplary Christian conduct. He urged them to reject all forms of anti-social behaviours and become authentic witnesses of Christ in their homes, schools, parishes and communities.
Part of the activities that featured during the mass was thanksgiving and a fundraising session to support the missionary activities of the church.
The Post-Mass activities reflected the rich spirit of celebration and fellowship that marked the silver jubilee. They included a welcome song and address, the ceremonial cutting of the jubilee cake, the singing of the HCA Anthem, an impressive march past competition by participating parishes and schools with the representatives from St. Benedict Nursery and Primary School Chokoneze as winners, those from St. Patrick’s Umuevu Onicha as first runner up and those from Queen of Peace Nursery and Primary school Oboama as the second runner up. Other activities were cultural dance performances and other entertaining presentations that showcased the talents and missionary enthusiasm of children.
Speaking during the event, Rev. Fr. Paul Ohaeri, the Diocesan Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) explained the responsibilities of every missionary disciple, encouraging the children and all present to imitate the life and virtues of Vivian Uchechi Ogu, whose exemplary witness continues to inspire missionary commitment among young catholics.
Significantly, the event was graced by the presence of Dr. Mrs. P.C. Ikpeama- Erstwhile CWO President of Ahiara Diocese who was the Mother of the Day.
Bringing the event to a close, Fr. Nwogu expressed profound gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration through financial support, dedicated service, and fervent prayers despite their demanding schedules. He prayed that God would richly reward all benefactors and continue to strengthen the missionary spirit within the church.
The Silver Jubilee celebration, not only commemorated twenty five years of the Holy Childhood Association’s missionary apostolate in Nigeria, but also renewed the commitment of the members to the mission of evangelization, echoing the enduring call of the church: “Together on Mission, the church goes forth”.
