By: Adolphus Ofoegbulem
The members of the Mary Mother of Perpetual Help sodality from various parishes in Ahiara Diocese on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, convened at the Maria Mater Ecclesiae Cathedral to mark their congress for the year 2025.
Our correspondent, speaking with the secretary of the association, Mr. Sabinus Njoku, was informed that this pious association holds this congress on the 3rd Wednesday of December every year, and it is a moment they share their experiences for the year, following the place they are coming from. He went ahead to say that this year’s celebration is very unique and dear to them because it is the first time they are celebrating the event at the Cathedral. He equally expressed their gratitude to the Bishop for authorizing their celebration this year in the Cathedral.
The event started with a rosary, which was followed by an Eucharistic Celebration that was presided over by the Chaplain of Mary Mother of Perpetual Help Ahiara Diocese, Rev. Fr. Patrick Opara. Delivering the homily, Fr. Opara urged the members to reflect on the unwavering devotion of their patroness, Mary, Mother of Perpetual Help. Just as she stood by her son through the darkest moments of his life, they are called to stand by one another, offering support, love, and compassion. He encouraged them to make their society a beacon of hope, reflecting Mary’s perpetual help to those in need. Fr. Opara equally charged them to emulate her virtues: faith, humility, and unwavering trust in God’s plan.
As the Mass ended, there was a solemn procession with the statue of Mary, Mother of Perpetual Help, around the Cathedral premises. Other activities that featured dominantly include the cutting of cake, the Novena to Mary, Mother of Perpetual Help, the fruit of faith, and the presentation of gift items for the destitute.
The president of the Pious Association, Mr. Maximus Ogemdi Anyanwu, in the vote of thanks, welcomed and thanked their chaplain and all present for the congress.
The Ahiara Diocese concluded its 2025 Mother of Perpetual Help Congress on a high note, with participants reaffirming their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and commitment to spreading her message of love and perpetual help.
