It was an impressive turnout penultimate week when Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (The Society), Catholic Church, Lagos Archdiocese, marked its 100 years anniversary. Its theme was, “Centenary of the Sacred Heart Devotion in Nigeria -let the Heart of Love Reign.”
The celebration began in April heralding the August 20 event as the grand finale. It was hosted by Christ the King Catholic Church, Ilasa-Maja, Lagos. The grand finale started with a high mass officiated by Rev. Monsignor Anthony Obanla, the Archdiocesan chancellor, who represented the Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins.
He was assisted by Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Irabor, Rev. Fr. Hiifan Ikyondo, national spiritual director and others. Rev. Irabor admonished the congregation on the importance of love in the lives of Christians.
He stressed: “The love of mankind is paramount”, extolling the virtue of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who said, “we must love until it is hot.” He charged the congregation to always do the right thing and never compromise, “it is the true spirit of virtue.”
The new patron of the society, Mr Martins Odoh, pledged his support to the growth of the society. He thanked all those who contributed to the growth of the society including the faithful departed. He also thanked Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie and Most Rev. Martins for their unending love.
President of the society, Mr David Dedekuma, said it was a privilege to witness the rare occasion, which he said might not be witnesse twice in one’s lifetime. He appreciated the founding members, especially at the Holy Cross Cathedral, who received the society first, before its spread to other parts of the country.
Centenary Planning Committee chairman, Mr Anaele Nnaemeka Ignatius, expressed gratitude to Most Rev. Martins, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Amadi and others. Deserving members of the society, including Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Amadi, Archdiocesan Spiritual Director, received various awards.
National Spiritual Director, Rev. Fr. Hiifan Ikyondo, prayed for God’s protection.