By Peace Chidindu
St. Benedict’s Parish, Chokoneze, was aglow with joy and spiritual fervor on Sunday, May 31, 2026, as the Catholic faithful welcomed the Bishop of Ahiara Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, CMF, on his maiden pastoral visit to the parish, during which he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to over seventy candidates.
The occasion, which coincided with the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, brought together parishioners, families, and well-wishers in a celebration that accentuates both the richness of the Church’s sacramental life and the enduring call to Christian witness.
Delivering the homily at the Mass he presided over, Bishop Nwobi reflected on the mystery of the Holy Trinity, describing it as the central mystery of the Christian faith and a reality that continually invites believers into deeper contemplation of God. He explained that while God the Father is acknowledged as Creator, God the Son as Savior, and God the Holy Spirit as Sanctifier, the three Persons remain one God, united in perfect communion.
The bishop observed that the mystery of the Trinity transcends the limits of human reasoning and has, throughout the centuries, challenged theologians and thinkers seeking to comprehend its depths. Yet, he noted, it remains a divine reality that can be embraced in faith even where it cannot be fully grasped by the human mind.
Drawing practical lessons from the feast, the prelate described the Trinity as the supreme model of unity and love, urging the faithful to cultivate the same spirit of communion in their families, communities, and the Church. He reminded them that through Baptism Christians are incorporated into the life of the Triune God and become participants in that divine fellowship of love.
Addressing the confirmands in particular, Bishop Nwobi encouraged them to cherish and nurture the gifts of the Holy Spirit they had received through the sacrament. He charged them to allow those gifts to bear fruit in good works, fidelity to the faith, and courageous Christian living, stressing that the grace of Confirmation is meant not merely to be received but to be actively lived.
In his remarks, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Francis Amaliri, warmly welcomed the bishop and expressed the joy of the parish community at hosting him for the first time. Describing the visit as “the Bishop’s first missionary journey to our parish,” he noted that the occasion would remain a memorable milestone in the history of St. Benedict’s Parish.
On behalf of the parishioners, Mr. Hilary Nkwaraonye presented the welcome address, conveying the community’s gratitude to the bishop for his pastoral presence and fatherly concern. While assuring him of their continued support for the mission and growth of Ahiara Diocese, he also highlighted some of the challenges facing the parish and appealed for the bishop’s continued prayers, guidance, and support.
For the Christian faithful in Chokoneze, this pastoral visit, with its attendant celebration, marks another significant moment in their journey of faith and a memorable chapter in the life of the parish community.
