All roads led to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Kirikiri, Lagos, on the 11th of March, 2018 to celebrate 25 years of Sr. Freda’s commitment to God and humanity. It was a glorious and happy day for the parishioners and guests of St. Joseph’s.
The jubilee Mass was celebrated by the Most Rev Dr. Hyacinth Egbebo, Bishop of Bomadi Diocese, Delta State. It was also graced by a good number of priests and Religious Sisters of Charity; as well as priests from the military cantonment who are students of Sr. Freda and the Catholic Women Organization of the same cantonment. It was made more colorful by the beautiful ‘Asoebi’ (an attire/design for the celebration), worn by the parishioners. The mass commenced with a procession joined by the jubilarian with a beautiful entrance hymn.
At the beginning of the homily, the Bishop appreciated the Sisters’ commitment, love for the poor and willingness to go to needy areas. He commented on the Congregation’s answer to a clarion call, to the then Bomadi Vicariate, at a time when there was need for a group of women religious to cater for the health and education of the very poor.
There was a beautiful liturgical dance by the Missionary Childhood Association with offerings of fresh fruits in designed baskets, while Sr Freda, a family member and a Sister followed suit with bread and wine. After communion, the Magnificat was sung and a presentation was rendered by the Catholic Women Organization from Ojo Military Cantonment. After that, all joined Sr. Freda and danced to the altar of the church in thanksgiving to God.
At the reception, the Sisters danced and ushered in the jubilarian to the reception ground and to her seat. Lots of songs and dance entertainment by the children, youth and women of the parish thrilled the air. Beautiful dance steps by Sr Freda also moved all to the dance floor.
An unusual and beautifully designed cake in the form of a Tabernacle, an altar with flowers, Bible and Rosary drew all to have a snapshot. As we thank God for Sr. Freda, we pray for God’s continuous providence and blessings on her as she prepares for her new assignment in Malawi.
Sr. Gertrude Nkwocha RSC
