By Esther Dominic
ASABA/Nigeria: Christians have been urged to continually channel their prayers through the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ, as a pathway to grace and divine favour. This call was made by His Lordship, Most Rev. Michael Odogwu Elue, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Block Rosary Council of Nigeria, held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, Delta State.
Delivering his homily at the golden jubilee thanksgiving Mass, Bishop Elue described the Blessed Virgin Mary as “the only one who can confidently call Jesus Christ ‘my Son’,” stressing that devotion to her remains a powerful expression of faith and humility. He emphasized the sacredness of gathering in God’s temple, describing it as a place where the heartfelt prayers of the faithful are heard and answered.
“We must continue to channel our prayers through the Blessed Virgin Mary, through whom we find grace, mercy, and success,” Bishop Elue said.
The prelate, who was accompanied by the Vicar General of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, and several priests from different parishes, congratulated members of the Block Rosary Council of Nigeria for their unwavering devotion to Mary and for sustaining the mission of faith, prayer, and service over the past five decades.
He commended the members for their dedication to the spiritual formation of children and families through the Holy Rosary, describing the movement as “a beacon of light and hope for the Catholic Church.”
Bishop Elue further encouraged parents and parishioners to nurture the spiritual lives of children and to appreciate the power of their prayers, which he described as “pure and pleasing before God.” He urged the children to continually pray for the well-being of the Diocese, for priests, religious sisters, families, and for the repose of the souls of the faithful departed.
Earlier in the Mass, the Vicar General, Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, in his reflection on the Feast of the Lateran Basilica, highlighted the importance of unity and obedience within the Catholic Church. He reminded the congregation that the Pope stands as the symbol of the universal Church, representing spiritual continuity and authority.
“The Church is like a river that gives life to the people,” Fr. Mobuogwu stated. “It remains a blessing to every community, but it must always be regarded as a house of prayer — not a place for unholy acts such as theft, gossip, or distraction.”
The golden jubilee celebration climaxed with a colourful thanksgiving procession by the Block Rosary Council of Nigeria, Issele-Uku Diocese, followed by a grand reception. Awards were presented to outstanding priests, including Rev. Fr. VickJackson Ibude, in recognition of their commitment and exemplary service.
Guests were treated to a vibrant display of cultural dances, songs, and a march-past competition in which St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, emerged first, while Holy Family Catholic Church, Ogwashi-Uku, took the top spot in the cultural performance category.
The joyous atmosphere, marked by songs of praise and expressions of gratitude, reflected the enduring faith and unity of the Block Rosary family, as the Diocese of Issele-Uku celebrated fifty years of Marian devotion, prayer, and service to God and humanity.
