Credit: Bigard Memorial Major Seminary
In his homily during the November 10 event, Archbishop Okeke appealed for renewal, saying, “Let us renew our commitment to God, guided by the strength of our faith and the heritage of Bigard Memorial Seminary.”
“This seminary has produced many leaders, Priests, and faithful servants of God, and it is our responsibility to continue this tradition,” the Nigerian Catholic Church leader said, and appealing for dedication, added, “We must dedicate ourselves to forming holy, faithful, and compassionate leaders who will carry forward the Church’s mission in the next century.”
“We cannot rest. Just as the Israelites were called to leave Egypt, we are called to leave behind anything that holds us back from God’s promise. We must resist worldly distractions and dedicate ourselves to the true sacrifice of service to Christ and His Church,” Archbishop Okeke emphasized during the November 10 Eucharistic celebration.
Credit: Bigard Memorial Major Seminary
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He challenged Bigard Memorial Major Seminary stakeholders to denounce wrongdoing in society, exercising their prophetic calling. He said, “We cannot become complacent or silent in the face of injustice. Instead, we must act with the courage and integrity that Christ demands of us.”
“This Church has endured for 2,000 years, built on the sacrifices of countless saints, missionaries, and martyrs. It is our duty to ensure that it remains steadfast, a beacon of hope and truth for the world,” the Nigerian Catholic Archdiocese, who started his Episcopal Ministry in February 2002 as Coadjutor Archbishop of his current Metropolitan See said.
He continued, “Let us move forward with gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to our faith. May this centenary inspire us to deeper holiness, unity, and service.”
Credit: Bigard Memorial Major Seminary
“May the Lord continue to bless Bigard Memorial Seminary and all who have been part of its journey,” Archbishop Okeke implored.
Among activities lined up for the 12-day centenary celebrations set to conclude on November 21 include the Seminary alumni get-together, entertainment sessions, symposiums, quiz competitions, cultural performances, music festivals, sports, blessing and opening of the new centenary hostel, centenary Eucharistic celebration and Ordination of Deacons, among others.
Credit: Bigard Memorial Major Seminary
Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the official inauguration of the centenary celebrations, Bigard Memorial Major Seminary Rector, Fr. Albert Ikpenwa, recalled that in the past, the institution had Seminarians from Cameroon and West Africa countries, including Sierra Leone and Liberia.
Not all the alumni of the Nigerian Major Seminary made it to the ministerial Priesthood, Fr. Albert said on November 8, adding that those, who did not become Priests became successful men and are serving the society in different capacities.
Credit: Bigard Memorial Major Seminary
He said Bigard Memorial Major Seminary has given to the Church many leaders, including “four Cardinals, 14 Archbishops, 35 Bishops and thousands of Priests as well as prominent Nigerian, Sierra Leonian and Cameroonian citizens.”
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