Bishop Onah Celebrates Catechist Agbo’s 25 Years Of Service In Imilike Ani

IN a heartfelt show of unity and faith, Most Rev. Godfrey Onah, Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Enugu State joined the people of Imilike Ani to celebrate the silver jubilee of Catechist Innocent Ikechukwu Agbo.

The event, held at St. Theresa’s Parish, honored Agbo’s 25 years of committed service to the Church and his community.

Catechist Agbo, a native of Imilike Ani, began his spiritual journey as an assistant catechist under Rev. Fr. Bernard Ngwoke at St. Patrick’s Parish, Obollo Afor.

Over the years, he has served under various Parish Priest’s including Frs. Francis Eze, Samson Itodo, Jean Ike, Oscar Ugwoke, and currently, Fr. Anthony Eze.

Beyond his catechetical duties, Agbo has played a vital role in community development, working as a borehole operator and ensuring consistent access to water a contribution he began before his official appointment as a catechist.

During the Holy Mass, Bishop Onah reflected on the parable of the Good Samaritan, calling on the faithful to extend love and compassion to all, especially those in need.

“Every person in a pitiable situation is our neighbor,” he emphasized, urging the congregation to embrace selflessness and active service in their daily lives.

He also offered prayers for Agbo and for all the people of Imilike Ani, both at home and abroad, invoking God’s blessings and grace for continued spiritual growth.

Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Anthony Eze expressed deep appreciation to Bishop Onah for attending the celebration, describing him as a shepherd who truly walks with his flock. He praised Agbo’s tireless dedication, his record-keeping skills, and his willingness to respond to any call for service.

Fr. Eze also highlighted the parish’s outreach efforts, including recent aid to a non-Christian family who lost their home to a fire an act that reflects the Church’s commitment to love without borders.

At the reception that followed, the parish community presented Agbo with a brand-new motorcycle in recognition of his unwavering service. The gift moved him to tears, capturing the deep respect and affection he has earned from the people.

In his closing remarks, Bishop Onah lauded Agbo’s long-standing efforts in maintaining the parish’s borehole system since 2003 and he acknowledged the support of benefactors, especially from the Netherlands, who contributed to such projects through the Church.

Bishop Onah concluded the celebration with a call for young people to resist pagan influences and recommit themselves to Christian values rooted in love, humility, and service and he encouraged the community to follow Agbo’s example of faithful stewardship and reminded them that genuine discipleship requires both action and compassion.

The silver jubilee of Catechist Innocent Agbo was more than a celebration of years it was a testimony to a life lived in devotion to God and service to others. With the presence of Bishop Onah and the full support of the parish community, the occasion reaffirmed the enduring values of faith, unity, and commitment that continue to define Imilike Ani.