Bishop Jonas Benson Okoye Dedicates St. Mary Mother Of God Parish, Akwaihedi, As Parish Records Historic Milestones

St. Mary Mother of God Parish, Akwaihedi, has recorded a series of significant milestones in its journey of faith and development, culminating in the solemn dedication of its parish church by the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

The dedication marked the high point of a remarkable period of spiritual and infrastructural development in the parish, which had earlier witnessed other landmark events during the Bishop's pastoral visit on January 11, 2026.

During the pastoral visit, Bishop Okoye administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to more than 100 candidates, strengthening them in their Christian faith and formally welcoming them into a deeper participation in the life of the Church.

The Bishop also blessed the Divine Mercy Chapel, a project which began with an initial donation of ₦200,000 from Chief Jeremiah Onyekumnaru, an Anglican philanthropist. Through the generosity of other friends, benefactors, benefactresses and parishioners, the vision gradually developed into a place of prayer and devotion.

Also blessed during the pastoral visit was the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) Hall, a magnificent structure built through the commitment and sacrifices of the women of the parish, with the support of friends and well-wishers.

The dedication of the new St. Mary Mother of God Parish Church on August 23 was the crowning moment of the parish's recent achievements.

The church, a magnificent edifice adorned with beautiful religious monuments, now stands as a symbol of the faith, unity and sacrifice of the people of Akwaihedi.

A major highlight of the dedication Mass was the deposition of the relics of St. Maria Goretti in the altar, symbolising the parish's communion with the saints and the universal Church.

Following the Mass, the Bishop also blessed the Calvary Garden, a serene monument within the parish compound designed as a place of prayer and reflection. The project, completed within two weeks, has added another significant spiritual landmark to the parish environment.

The parishioners expressed profound appreciation to the Parish Priest, Fr. Peter-Chiedu Igwe, whose vision, zeal and commitment have continued to inspire the spiritual and physical development of the parish.

Among the notable projects undertaken during his pastoral leadership was the fencing of the entire church, school and field. The project reportedly began with a seed donation of ₦5,000 from Mr. Chukwudi Ezimora and subsequently grew through divine providence and the generous support of numerous individuals and groups.

The day's activities concluded with a special reception in honour of the Bishop, during which awards of recognition were presented to outstanding donors and benefactors who contributed to the various projects in the parish.

Chief Sir Patrick Ubajaka was among those specially recognised, alongside other distinguished sons and daughters of the parish whose generosity and support contributed immensely to the realisation of the projects.

The series of events has further demonstrated the role of faith, unity and collective sacrifice in the growth of St. Mary Mother of God Parish, Akwaihedi.

From its humble beginnings to the completion and dedication of its magnificent church and other pastoral projects, the parish's story remains a testimony to God's grace working through the commitment and generosity of His people.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam — For the Greater Glory of God.