By Peace Chidindu
The Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Ragusa (SCGR), together with priests, religious, family members, and other faithful, gathered on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Convent, Umuokele, Enyiogugu, Aboh Mbaise, for the final profession of four members of the congregation.
The solemn celebration commenced with a Holy Mass presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Ahiara Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, with several priests concelebrating.
In his homily, Bishop Nwobi reflected on the meaning of consecrated life as a total self-offering to God in response to His call. He reminded the sisters that the vows they profess are not merely external commitments but a lifelong witness to the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience.
The bishop urged the sisters to remain steadfast in their vocation and to cultivate an authentic faith capable of bearing lasting witness to Christ in the Church and in society. He further encouraged them to persevere in prayer, fidelity, and generous service as they embrace the responsibilities of their religious calling.
Addressing the families of the newly professed sisters, the bishop appealed to them to support their daughters in their vocation and avoid placing undue demands on them, particularly in material or financial matters. Rather than measuring their contributions by worldly standards, he urged families to value the gift of their religious commitment and assist them in their pursuit of holiness.
The local superior, Sr. Christiana Iwuchukwu, welcomed the bishop and all who gathered for the occasion. She expressed gratitude to the families of the sisters for generously offering their daughters to the service of God and the Church and encouraged them to continue supporting them in their vocational journey.
After the presentation of Kolanuts by Mr. Stephen Amadikwa, the celebration was further enriched by a number of presentations and cultural displays, including a welcome song by students of Sacred Heart Villa School, Enyiogugu, and a calisthenics display by pupils of the same institution.
The sisters who made their final profession were Sr. Mary Cynthia Ngozichukwu Anyanwu, Sr. Mary Blessing Ubochi Iwu, Sr. Mary Lilian Chikaodinaka Akubudike, and Sr. Mary Christina Nkiruka Okafor.
It was with immense joy and thanksgiving that the newly professed sisters formally embraced a lifelong commitment to Christ through the religious life. Their definitive “yes” to God marked a significant milestone not only for the congregation but also for the Church, which continues to be enriched by the witness of consecrated men and women dedicated to prayer, service, and the proclamation of the Gospel.
