Beyond The Pulpit: Oborevwori Celebrates Ewherido, Anamali For Service To Humanity
Governor recognises the wider impact of priestly ministry
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has praised the Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Diocese’s Judicial Vicar, Very Rev. Fr. Ogochukwu Anamali, for their contributions to spiritual growth and community development over 40 years of priestly service.
Oborevwori gave the commendation during a thanksgiving Mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Warri, where Catholic faithful, fellow priests, traditional rulers, government officials and other dignitaries gathered to celebrate the clerics’ 40th anniversary of ordination.
Describing the milestone as significant, the Governor said their decades of ministry reflected sacrifice, perseverance and dedication to God and humanity.
He also expressed personal satisfaction at celebrating Bishop Ewherido, whom he said he had known for several years.
Pastoral care strengthens families & communities
Oborevwori emphasised that priestly ministry demanded more than religious commitment, noting that serving God and humanity required unwavering faith, patience and a readiness to confront challenges.
He maintained that the contributions of the two clerics could be measured through the positive changes they had brought into people’s lives.
According to the Governor, their pastoral responsibilities had helped restore marriages, save lives and provide hope to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances.
He further observed that the two priests had sustained a close friendship over the years, making their shared anniversary particularly meaningful because they were ordained on the same day.
Bishop’s contribution extends beyond religious duties
Focusing on Bishop Ewherido, the Governor described him as a principled and focused personality whose quiet disposition did not diminish his commitment to duty.
Oborevwori also acknowledged the Bishop’s involvement in efforts to advance infrastructure development in Warri.
In particular, he recalled Ewherido’s role in facilitating government approval for the Oleri Road project and the ongoing construction of NPA Road.
The Governor subsequently disclosed that the process for awarding the NPA-to-DECO Road project was ongoing, with Julius Berger expected to undertake the construction.
His remarks highlighted the intersection between religious leadership and community development, particularly where clerics engage with public institutions to promote projects that benefit residents.
Church reflects on the responsibilities of priesthood
In his homily, titled Faithful Ministry, the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Warri, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Igolo, described a priest as a living image of Jesus Christ.
He explained that priests must faithfully shepherd and care for God’s people, stressing the spiritual responsibilities attached to their calling.
Igolo also examined the biblical symbolism of the number 40, which he associated with spiritual preparation, refinement and transformation.
Against this background, he said the anniversary offered an opportunity to appreciate the commitment required to sustain a meaningful and fruitful ministry over four decades.
Celebrants appreciate goodwill & encouragement
Meanwhile, Bishop Ewherido and Fr. Anamali separately expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori, fellow bishops, priests, traditional rulers, government officials and other guests who attended the thanksgiving Mass.
They described the support and goodwill of those present as a source of joy and encouragement.
As the two clerics marked four decades since their ordination, the celebration recognised their pastoral contributions while drawing attention to the continuing importance of faith, spiritual guidance and service to society.
