As Catholic women all over the Archdiocese of Lagos celebrated Mothers’ Day, the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church (OLPH), Victoria Island, took the occasion to induct and welcome 60 new members into their fold. The event began with Mass celebrated by Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, the Parish Priest who conducted the induction ceremony, assisted by Rev. Fr. Oscar Obi, the Associate Priest and executives of Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria, Lagos Archdiocese (CWONLA), led by Lady Catherine Alabi, the President.
Delivering the homily at Mass, Fr. Godonu enjoined the women to ensure they influence their children and family positively, as he said mothers are intercessors who give birth to giants, warriors, the rich, kings and even the saviour of the world. He said the value of mothers cannot be underrated in the family, Church and society, as he added that the power of motherhood is more spiritual and goes beyond the ordinary. According to him, mothers are great beings who dedicate themselves to nurturing and nourishing their children materially and spiritually, and are strong and resilient in the face of trials, temptations and suffering, adding that mothers go hungry in order that their children have something to eat.
He urged the women to continue to be good in the organisation where they work, in the society and Church, as he urged the husbands and children to ensure they do things that will make the mothers happy. Mrs. Ifeoma Okocha-Ojeah, President, CWO, OLPH, welcomed the newly inducted members, assuring them of companionship among members, who they will learn from and share their unique gifts with. She assured the new members that they have made the right decision to join the organisation, as she prayed that the Blessed Virgin Mary will keep their hearts dedicated to her service in the Church through the CWO.
She said mothers are gardeners of souls who plant seeds of faith, water them with prayer, and watch them bloom, as their homes become sanctuaries where little hearts learn to love God as they are taught Catholic prayers that sow eternity into their beings. Lady Catherine Alabi, urged the newly inducted to instill positive values in their children as she asked the OLPH President to continue in her good works. She commended the Parish CWO for empowering its members which she said is a gift from the Blessed Mother on Mothers’ Day.
