By Johnpaul Ibe
The former St Monica’s Deanery, Aboh Region, recently joined the Church in Nigeria in celebrating the Silver Jubilee of the Holy Childhood Association (HCA), marking twenty-five years of missionary formation and apostolic growth among children.
The regional celebration formed part of the nationwide commemoration being observed at national, provincial, diocesan, and regional levels.
The event brought together HCA members, animators, priests, religious, and parish representatives from across the region in a gathering characterised by prayer, thanksgiving, fellowship, and missionary enthusiasm.
Among those in attendance were the PMS Director of Ahiara Diocese, Rev. Fr. Paul Ohaeri; the Diocesan HCA Coordinator, Sr. Arinzechukwu Ugbor, IHM; the Dean of St. Monica’s Deanery, Nguru, Rev. Fr. Chinatu Anyanwu; the Dean of St. Cyprian’s Deanery, Enyiogugu/Okwuato, Rev. Fr. Celestine Ekennia; Rev. Fr. Damian Emekwuru, the representative of the Dean of St. Athanasius Deanery, Oke-Uvuru; Rev. Fr. Jude Nwachukwu, the PMS Director of Aboh Region; as well as several priests and religious sisters from the region.
The celebration commenced with a Mission Rosary Procession during which participants publicly witnessed their commitment to the missionary mandate of the Church. This was followed by a Holy Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Chinatu Anyanwu, who thanked God for the growth of the Holy Childhood Association in Nigeria and for its contribution to fostering missionary consciousness among children over the past twenty-five years.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, invited guests and members of the high table were formally recognized, while the Jubilee anthem and opening prayers ushered participants into the day’s activities.
In his welcome address, the regional PMS director expressed gratitude to God for the progress of the association and commended priests, animators, parents, and benefactors for their continued support of the missionary formation of children.
One of the major highlights of the event was the colourful march-past by participating parishes. The exercise, which served as the principal competition of the celebration, showcased the discipline, enthusiasm, and missionary spirit of the children.
The program also featured cultural displays, entertainment, and other presentations that highlighted the talents and creativity of the participants.
At the conclusion of the competitions, Immaculate Conception Parish, Oboama Enyiogugu, emerged as the Victor Ludorum.
The jubilee celebration came to a close with a vote of thanks and dismissal prayers. Participants departed with renewed appreciation for the missionary vocation of children and a deeper commitment to supporting the evangelizing mission of the Church.
