The Catholic Chaplaincy in Federal University of Technology, Owerri known as St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Chaplaincy (STACC) played host to a galaxy of personalities today to celebrate the three year anniversary of the dedication of the chaplaincy to God. The event drew together staff, students and the entire university community. Present at the occasion were clergy men (including the chaplain and his assistant), notable university officials like Dr. (Mrs) Chinwe Anunobi (the university librarian), Prof. I.N.S. Dozie (Chairman, Chaplaincy council), Dr. Mrs. Eze (wife of the Vice chancellor), Dr. Emmanuel Esenwa, senior lecturers, staff and students of the institution also participated in the celebration.
The Holy mass which began at about 1:45pm was celebrated by the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Dr. A.J.V Obinna. In his opening speech, Fr. Jude Ike welcomed all for deeming it fit to attend the occasion.
The Bishop in his homily spoke on the essence of Love knowing fully well that true love can only be found in God through Christ. He admonished the faithful to remain steadfast in faith. He equally spoke on the upcoming Valentine's day which happens to fall on Ash Wednesday. He said this year's celebration will be an "Ashy Valentine's day" since it fell on ash Wednesday and as thus there will be stations of the cross across all parishes on that day.
He also noted that even the word 'Valentine' has the word 'Lent' in it; thus giving us "VaLENTine" which shows us the essence of the celebration. He warned students against the freedom of license to sin which is apparently obtainable on campus. He advised students to run away from sin which may lead them to regrets in later years. Finally, he said the church is the hospital for sinners where they receive forgiveness and a school for intellectual wisdom.
Shortly after the post communion prayer, Prof. I.N.S Dozie gave the vote of thanks. He thanked the Archbishop for honouring the invitation to celebrate with the university community. He also thanked everyone present. The Golden voices choir thrilled the audience with their wonderful renditions. The Holy Mass came to end at about 4:15pm.
To God be the glory.
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