By Gloria Okoh, SHCJ

The St. Jude’s Catholic Church, Rumuokoro, Port Harcourt was dedicated to the glory of God on the 26th of October, 2014. The Church was the first Parish, the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus Jesuit Memorial College Community, Portharcourt were worshipping before they moved to the School site. Sr. Florence Owuamanam, SHCJ was given an accommodation in the Parish House initially, when there was no room at the Jesuits’ rented apartment and since then there has been a cordial relationship between the Parish Priest and the Sisters.

The Church also celebrated 20th Anniversary of its foundation and more than 200 Candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation. At the dedication of the Church, the Bishop of Port Harcourt, His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. C. A. Etokudoh, in a homily explained some of the rituals performed during dedication.

At the beginning of the celebration, the Altar was left bare and was anointed; 12 points or pillars in the Church were also anointed to represent the 12 Apostles. He also made reference to 1 king 6 the building of the temple by Solomon and also in the New Testament Lk 19: 45-47, where Jesus sent those selling in the synagogue away just to signify that the temple should be sacred.

Bishop Etokudoh used the opportunity to pray for Nigeria and also thanked those who launched and were generous towards the building of the Pastoral Center. He also informed the congregation that he is hosting the Bishop’s Conference in 2015. It was a lovely celebration.