BARR. BRO. EMMANUEL IAREN AND LADY GRACE IAREN CELEBRATED AS PILLARS OF THE HOLY FAMILY IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
Mrs Winifred Adzande
winifredadzande@gmail.com
Easter Monday, 5th April, 2021 was a remarkable day in the history of Onov Mba Iaren Ken Kristu. The group had a resounding celebration which was multiple folds. The first was to appreciate God for a successful Easter season, a get together for the God children of the Iarens and ensued commitment to marriage cum spiritual commitments.
In his homily Rev. Fr. Jeremiah Atser VC, the assistant parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church High Level- Makurdi urged couples to always tolerate the shortcomings of their spouses. He admonished the couples to remember their undertakings through baptism and the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. He also said he is encouraged by the commitment of the group especially the idea to return to God in praise.
On his part, the Senior Catechist of the parish, Christopher Deva said he has been around for many decades but has never seen the kind of commitment shown by Onov Mba Iaren in the promotion of Christian values through their activities. He urged the members to show more commitment.
On a her part, a director with the Benue State Government and Diocesan Icon of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Mrs. Regina Nyitar said she is overwhelmed by the life of Bar. Iaren and his wife in the service of God and humanity. Mrs. Nyitar added that she was drawn to the group through its activities. She also said humanly speaking; the family has already booked a place in heaven.
In his address of welcome, the chairman of Onov Mba Iaren Ken Kristu, Bro. Mike Ade thanked all for honouring the occasion. He said the expectation of his executive committee (EXCO) is to seek God first in all activities. The immediate past chair and Ex officio member, Sir David Kajo also restated the commitment of the group to religiousity. Sir Kajo who is also the President of Makurdi Cooperative Union also said Onov Mba Iaren have shown commitment and doggedness in what they do.
On their part, Barr. Bro Emmanuel Iaren and Lady Grace Iaren appreciated God Almighty, the clergy, God-children and all for honouring the day. To them, Easter Monday celebration has been a yearly occasion except that this one has been situated in the church to give it more spiritual colouration. The Kight and Lady of Saint Mulumba (K(L)SM), in the 4th Degree where overwhelmed with the activities of the day.
Highlight of the occasion was presentation of award to Daddy and Mummy Iaren, in appreciation for “nurturing couples through the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.”
Onov Mba Iaren Ken Kristu is made up of couples sponsored by Bar. Bro and Lady Iaren for Holy Matrimony. The group is made up of 40 families as at April 5th, 2021. As a faith based organisation, the group prides in worship, prayers, extension of agape love and safeguarding the concept of the Holy Family as exemplified in the life of Joseph, Mary and Jesus.
