The immediate President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Augustine Akabueze, has urged the newly inducted Peter Cardinal Okpaleke to see his elevation as a call to additional service in the Lord’s vineyard.
Akabueze, who is the Archbishop of Benin Catholic Archdiocese, gave the charge, yesterday, during a reception mass for Cardinal Okpaleke, held at St Joseph Cathedral, Ekwulobia, also congratulated him on his new status.
Pope Francis created Cardinal Okpaleke, who is also the Bishop of Ekwulobia Catholic Diocese, last month in the Holy Sea, Rome.
Speaking on behalf of catholic bishops in the country, Akabueze prayed for Okpaleke, reminding him that his new position demands more service to the country.
He said: “I implore God to bless you. Always say no to retaliation and exhibit a positive and forgiving attitude in this your new assignment.
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“I thank the Governor of Anambra State. May all your plans for the state find fulfillment in God’s name,” said the Archbishop.
In his speech at the event, Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, expressed optimism that the creation of Cardinal Okpaleke will bring about a new dawn in Nigeria, South East and Anambra in particular.
He said because the creation happened in an unusual time, it is marvelous to behold, stressing that it will become a point of contact for something new in Nigeria.
While welcoming all to the ceremony on behalf of the people of Anambra, he said: “There must be something spiritual about it. I pray that this creation will become a point of contact for something new in Nigeria; for new ideas and courage to know the right thing to be done in Nigeria, South East and Anambra.
