Archbishop Okeke Confirms 1,335 Catholics at Sacred Heart Parish, Urges Christians to ‘Show Love Through Action’

By Uzo Ugwunze

The Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, has administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 1,335 candidates during his 11th Pastoral Visit to Sacred Heart Parish, Odoakpu, Onitsha, charging Christians to make love visible through acts of charity rather than mere words.

Delivering his homily, Archbishop Okeke reminded the faithful that love remains the greatest commandment and must be expressed through practical care for others.

“Love is caring for one another. It is demonstrated by practically helping people in need. Don’t just say, ‘I love you’ or ‘God loves you.’ Show that love through your actions,” the Archbishop said.

During the visit, the parish presented 200 bags of cement to support the ongoing construction of Shanahan University, Onitsha. Receiving the donation, Archbishop Okeke described the institution as a skill-oriented university envisioned to serve as “a meeting point of faith and science.”

Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Hyginus Zikora, expressed gratitude to the Archbishop for the pastoral visit, describing it as a spiritual boost for both the newly confirmed candidates and the entire parish community.

“The Archbishop’s visit is a great encouragement that will strengthen the faith of our parishioners. I urge the confirmed candidates to bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit, beginning from this parish,” Fr. Zikora said.

He noted that the donation to Shanahan University reflects the parish’s commitment to the Archdiocese’s educational vision.

“Shanahan University is our collective project. Our children will also benefit from the institution through quality higher education,” he added.

Vice Chairman of the Parish Council, Mr. Festus Mmadunatu, described the donation as a demonstration of loyalty to the Archbishop’s vision for education.

“A good child supports his father’s vision. Education is the bedrock of the future, and if we desire a better South-East, we must invest in it,” he said.

Mmadunatu also encouraged the newly confirmed Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith despite growing skepticism about Christianity.

“The candidates should hold firmly to Christ and practise genuine agape love. Christianity is not a scam. Our youths should reject false narratives and embrace the Gospel,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Member representing Onitsha South II Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Barr. Jude Umennajiego, described Confirmation as a significant moment of spiritual renewal.

“Confirmation is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the faithful. It deepens spirituality and brings abundant blessings. I urge the candidates to remain faithful to the vows they have made today,” he said.

The pastoral visit attracted hundreds of parishioners, family members and well-wishers who witnessed one of the largest Confirmation ceremonies in the Archdiocese, underscoring the Church’s commitment to faith formation, charity and education.