Parishioners, family, friends and well wishers were gathered at St Mark’s Catholic Church, Alisimie, Agbor in honour of the parish priest, Rev Father Augustine Abude as he marked his 20th priestly ordination anniversary last Saturday, August 22.
The colorful occasion began with the celebration of Holy Mass where the homilist, Very Rev Father (Barr) Dr. Anthony Azuwike thanked God for the life of the celebrant who has dedicated the last 20 years of his life to the service of God and humanity. He noted that the priesthood is a life of dedication and sacrifice, adding that as priests they must exhibit exemplary traits as ambassadors of Christ and ministers anointed by God and make atonement to God on behalf of the people and obtain grace for all.
He called on Catholics, especially parishioners of St Mark to pray for their priests as the journey of priesthood is most challenging and full of trials and tribulations.
Rev. Fr Abude in his speech, expressed gratitude to God for giving him the grace and strength to remain on the path of total dedication and service to the ministry for two decades. He noted that it has been God’s grace that sustained him thus far and said it has been a wonderful experience serving in the vineyard of the Lord. He also thanked his family members, friends and parishioners for their love and support all through the years and prayed God to bless them bountifully.
During the reception ceremony which was highlighted by different dance and music performances by Mass servers, CWO and youths of the parish, some parishioners took time out to pay glowing tributes to their parish priest describing him as an unassuming and dedicated priest who has brought peace and progress to the parish. They wished him many more fruitful years of service in the Lord’s vineyard.
Some other ministers present during the occasion include; Rev Fr Dr Victor Ofili, Very Rev Fr (Barr) Steve Chukwuma, Rev Fr Festus Okocha, Rev Fr Henry Ogonwa, Rev Fr Emmanuel Akumabor, Very Rev Fr Ukadi and Rev Sister Helen Thomson.
Rev Father Augustine Abude with family members
