By Peace Chidindu
The Catholic faithful of St Anthony’s Parish, Ibeku, Aboh Mbaise, gathered in thanksgiving and joy on Sunday, June 14, 2026, to celebrate the parish’s annual feast in honor of St. Anthony of Padua.
The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Anthony Abanobi, manager of Holy Rosary Farewell Home, Ogbor Nguru, with the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Christopher Egbule, concelebrating.
In his homily, Fr. Abanobi reflected on the life and witness of St. Anthony of Padua, describing him as a 13th-century Franciscan, Doctor of the Church, and one of the Church’s most beloved saints. He noted that while St. Anthony is widely known as the patron of those seeking lost items, his greater mission was helping people rediscover their relationship with God.
The homilist observed that St. Anthony proclaimed the Gospel with remarkable clarity and conviction in an age marked by confusion and uncertainty. Through his preaching, many were strengthened in faith and drawn closer to Christ. He ministered to people from every walk of life, including merchants, fishermen, and scholars, communicating the unchanging Gospel in ways that spoke to their circumstances and needs.
Fr. Abanobi also highlighted the saint’s special concern for the poor, the neglected, and those burdened by life’s difficulties. He reminded the faithful that God’s mercy reaches every person and that no condition of life places one beyond the reach of divine love.
He urged parishioners to imitate the virtues of St. Anthony, particularly his love for God, devotion to prayer, charity towards neighbors, and fidelity to the Gospel, while encouraging them to seek his intercession in their daily lives.
Following the Mass, a reception was held within the church premises under the chairmanship of Mr. Stanley Nwachukwu. Chief (Hon.) Mike Iheanaetu and Lady Chinyere Dom Nzeji served as Father and Mother of the Day, respectively.
Highlights of the celebration included the Rite of St. Anthony’s Bread, the presentation of Friends of St. Anthony and Ezi-Nwa St. Anthony Awards to distinguished individuals, a chair dance competition between the Catholic Men’s Organisation (CMO) and Catholic Women’s Organisation (CWO), cultural performances by the Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), and a novelty football match between the women of the Oborji and Ibekuta communities, with the Oborji team emerging victorious.
In his remarks, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Christopher Egbule, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the feast. He commended the organizing committee, parish groups, benefactors, and volunteers whose dedication ensured a memorable celebration.
The feast concluded in a spirit of gratitude and revived devotion, as parishioners gave thanks to God for the gift of St Anthony and recommitted themselves to following his example of faith, charity, and service.
