By Fr. Okhueleigbe Osemhantie à  

Obehie-Asa, Abia State, erupted with vibrant energy and profound solemnity today as the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) celebrated the 6th annual Sunday of the Word of God alongside the Jubilee of the World of Communication. This monumental event was carried out  with a splendour and grace that left an indelible impression on all who attended.  

The day began with an aura of sacred anticipation. Rev. Fr. Dr. Victor Jammah Usman, Assistant Chaplain of the Institute, conducted a meticulous pre-Mass briefing with liturgical functionaries, ensuring that every detail of the celebration was planned to perfection.  

Over 21 priests, as reported by John Nsikan-Abasi joseph

graced the Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Rev. Fr. Dr. Okhueleigbe Osemhantie Ã. The grand procession that opened the Mass was a sight to behold. Rev'd Montforth Okpara bore the Book of the Gospels with unparalleled dignity, amidst  retinue of priests, altar servers and liturgical dancers whose movements exuded elegance and devotion. Rev. Fr. Augustine Coker, a Sierra Leonean student of  Liturgy Department, was majestic in his role as the liturgical Master of Ceremonies, orchestrating the proceedings with graceful precision.  

From the stirring opening hymn, Ancient Words, to the choir's flawless execution of scriptural hymns, the chapel was alive with a sacred energy that echoed  deeply with all present. The enthronement seat for the Word of God, adorned with ornaments and roses, and the glowing Paschal Candle provided striking symbolism, reminding the faithful of the light and centrality of Scripture in the Church's life.  

The high point of the celebration unfolded after the Gospel proclamation. As the choir intoned the hymn O the Word of My Lord, inspired by Jeremiah 1:1–7, a breathtaking sequence ensued. The thurifer reappeared, filling the chapel with clouds of fragrant incense, while liturgical dancers performed with grace and reverence. Rev. Fr. Augustine Coker delivered an evocative commentary, seamlessly weaving theology and symbolism.  

In an awe-inspiring gesture of solemnity, Rev'd  Montforth Okwara carried the Book of the Gospels to the enthronement stand—a grand seat exquisitely adorned with floral arrangements and symbolic ornaments by Sr. Roselyn Egbuchulem, SDV. With every step, the congregation was drawn deeper into the profound mystery of the Word of God. This sacred moment was a vivid demonstration of the Church's reverence for Scripture as the wellspring of faith and life.  

Rev. Fr. Dr. Okhueleigbe delivered a stirring homily, weaving together the themes of the day. He emphasized that the celebration honored the Word of God and the Jubilee of Communication, coinciding with the Holy Childhood Association Day and the conclusion of the 2025 Bible Week. In his eloquent reflection, he reaffirmed the Church's balanced approach to Scripture, rejecting both the extremes of Sola Scriptura and a Bible-less Christianity. Quoting St. Jerome's timeless adage, "Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ," he called the faithful to a deeper engagement with the Word of God.  

He also lauded the tireless efforts of those in the communication industry, whose vocation amplifies the Gospel's message to the world. This recognition tied beautifully into the Jubilee of Communication, a reminder of the vital role media plays in evangelization.  

The celebration was further enriched by the Otu Umune Ndigbo at CIWA, whose vibrant performance captivated the congregation. Their spirited expressions of faith and culture added a layer of joy and thanksgiving, as they celebrated Day of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi (January 20) with heartfelt gratitude.  

Rev. Fr. Dr. Justin Temswang, Sub-Dean of Students Affairs, addressed the congregation, reminding them of the upcoming matriculation exercise scheduled for January 28, 2025. He emphasized the Rector’s, Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Jude Abidemi Asanbe's, expectation of decorum and excellence, which are hallmarks of CIWA ceremonies. Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Abel, the Institute's Examination Officer, followed with a sharp reminder: "After matriculation comes examinations." He encouraged students to prepare diligently, reiterating CIWA's commitment to academic integrity and zero tolerance for malpractice.  

For all who attended, it was a day etched in their memories—a shining manifestation of CIWA’s graceful dedication to excellence in faith, learning, and community.