Catholic faithful of Faithspiration Initiative cutting Virgin Mary birthday cake in Onitsha
By Polycarp Ifeanyi, Onitsha
It was indeed a day of joy and celebration for the less privileged across the Onitsha metropolis and beyond, as the Faithspiration Initiative marked the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary in a unique way by celebrating with the poor.
The event, which took place at SS John and Paul Parish, Iba Pope, Awada, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, drew a large gathering and featured notable gospel artists, including Evangelist Onyeka Obiezu, popularly known as “Onye Amuma,” Sister Chioma Ezefete, Igwe White, Ada Zion, and Akams.
In his keynote address, the Chancellor of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Prudentius Emeka Aroh, cited the Letter of St. Paul to the Galatians, chapter 4, verses 4–6.
He said that every true Christian worshipper believes in the triune God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Fr. Aroh elaborated on the interrelated roles of God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit, stating that five major fundamental pillars of the Christian faith are embodied in God, the Son, the Woman (Mary), the Spirit, and Abba Father.
He declared the Blessed Virgin Mary as the pure Mother of God, divinely chosen and endowed with exceptional qualities by God Almighty. He noted that Mary was granted seven distinct characteristics,:Paragon of Beauty / Quintessential Elegance,Epitome of Grace,Most Blessed Creature,Immaculate,Perpetual Virginity,Mother General and Incorruptibility
As part of the celebration, ten selected beneficiaries were each empowered with ₦200,000.
The spiritual leader of the Faithspiration Initiative, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike, explained that empowerment is one of the three core pillars of the Initiative’s philosophy, which he listed as Empowerment, Evangelism, and Entertainment.
He revealed that the total sum of ₦2,000,000 was generously donated by Chief Sir Clement Onyekwere (KSM), specifically for the empowerment initiative.
Fr. Adimike also expressed appreciation to Mr. Emeka Esotu, Sir Paul Chukwuma, and Mr. Lucky Adimike for each contributing ₦1,000,000 to support the celebration.
Fr. George further extended his heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Chinwe Ezedoora, Mrs. Herrietha Ozoigbo, and all those who contributed in various capacities to the success of the event.
He also commended Mrs. Monica Chukwudebelu, who prepared a special birthday cake in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
