The Nigerian Catholic Community in the diocese held its annual retreat on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation in Carey.
Father Elias Udeh, CSSp, parochial vicar at Powell St. Joan of Arc and Columbus St. Peter churches, led the pilgrimage. He serves as chaplain for the Nigerian Catholic Community.
He said that “it is our faith that this encounter with God will fortify us spiritually for the mission” called for in the diocese as part of the Real Presence Real Future initiative to “foster viable, sustainable and vibrant parishes and schools that support the evangelization mission of Jesus Christ and His Church.”
Deacon Victor Nduaguba, who serves at Columbus St. Timothy Church, is one of the members of the Nigerian community who joined the pilgrims.
“This year’s annual retreat was a great privilege for us to present our families to Our Lady of Consolation for her maternal blessings,” he said. “We also prayed for peace in all families and in all the places where there is conflict in the world. May God fill our hearts and our families with peace.”
Other members of the community shared their reflections on the trip.
“Our annual retreat allows us to withdraw from many activities and worries to dedicate time to God and to restore ourselves so that we might become renewed and better Christians,” said John Eneh, the community’s vice chairman. “This withdrawal is necessary as it serves as a holy rest, when we regain our strength as disciples of Christ.”
Youth leader Chioma Onyeukwu said, “This year’s spiritual retreat offered us the opportunity to present all our youths to Our Lord Jesus Christ, asking for the gifts of knowledge and wisdom, since we cannot do nothing without His grace. It was an enriching encounter with the Lord.”
Teresa Edoja, a member of the community, added, “Our annual retreat provides us the opportunity to step away to a silent place, for a recollection and a spiritual encounter with God. Further, retreat allows one to experience the peace of mind and body that is necessary for all Christ followers. Families turn out in great numbers to retreat, pray and reflect on our Catholic faith. It also serves as healing and enrichment for our families.”