| Catholic Church dedicates
N150 million edifice in Lagos
By CHARLES NWAOGUJI
Wednesday,
January 2, 2008
A resounding ovation marked the recent dedication of St.
Patrick’s Catholic Church, located at Alaba International
market, in Ojo area of Lagos. The ultra modern church, which
started a few years back, was formally opened to members and
the public amid priase songs, prayers and thanksgiving as
key figures in the Catholic faith graced the event in a large
number.
The magnificent building is erected on a spacious land of
four plots with a central auditorium that can sit about 5,000
members. It also boasts of an ultra modern office complex
for over 100 workers in such departments as counselling, inspiration,
education and store. There are also facilities for youths
as well as training equipment for all categories of members.
While declaring open the colourful edifice, Cardinal Olubunmi
Okojie, the Archbishop of Lagos, urged the congregation not
to hinder the grace of God from flowing in the church.
His words: "I encourage you all to ensure that the glory
of God is revealed to this place. I was here when we laid
the foundation and I marvelled when I later saw the magnificent
edifice which the building has become…This building
has added another colour to the body of Christ in this city."
The cardinal’s address was followed by a procession
of officiating priests comprising Rev. Father William Peterson,
Rev. Father Callistus Nwachukwu ( parish priest) and a host
of other clergymen, who joined in the celebration.
On how the project was executed, Nwachukwu recalled how the
rough and unkept environment was transformed: "I thank
God for the vision; the financial provision and God-loving
people…this project is propelled by our passion as a
church to be in the vanguard of reformation of our civil society
by taking up responsibility for our community. It will serve
as a centre where we can have divine worship to our God."
Nwachukwu, who assumed office on May 16, 2002 also recalled
that prior to the take off of the building project, the location
had no good road, water or electricity.
He added: "As a priest, I have realised that if one is
sincere to the people, they will give their total support…I
have found that in the good people of St. Patrick’s
Parish,"
Also buttressing Nwachukwu’s position was Mr. Emmanuel
Azike, first vice chairman of the parish council, who described
the building as the greatest miracle.
"We are grateful to God for seeing us through the seven
years during which the church was built. It was the Lord’s
doing that work never stopped on the project from commencement
to completion," he said.
In his remarks, Mr. Iloka Benard Ejike, chairman of the Dedication
Committee, hinted that based on the the huge amount needed
by the church, the project could have been abandoned but for
the courage and dedication of members.
"It is one thing to embark on a journey, and another
thing to complete it. We thank God that we came, saw and conquered."
The dedication was equally marked by dancing and singing as
well as cutting of cake to signify elaborate celebration.
There were also spectacular performances, which brought excitement
and fun to the delight of church members and guests.
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