Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has celebrated the Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Ogochukwu Anamali, for completing 40 years in the priesthood.
The governor joined Catholic faithful, fellow priests, traditional rulers and other dignitaries at a thanksgiving Mass held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Warri, to honour the two clerics for four decades of service to God and humanity.
Oborevwori described the anniversary as a significant milestone, praising the priests for their sacrifices, dedication and contributions to the spiritual and social development of society.
He said he was particularly delighted to celebrate Bishop Ewherido, whom he had known for several years, adding that the two clerics were ordained on the same day.
The governor acknowledged the demands of priestly ministry, saying serving God and humanity required commitment, perseverance and unwavering faith.
He said the impact of the celebrants’ ministry could be seen in the lives they had touched, marriages they had helped restore and hope they had brought to individuals and families.
Describing Bishop Ewherido, Oborevwori said he was a principled and focused personality who might not speak much but was deeply committed to his responsibilities.
The governor also commended the bishop for his contributions to the development of Warri, recalling his role in facilitating government approval for the Oleri Road project and the ongoing construction of the NPA Road.
He further disclosed that the process for awarding the NPA-to-DECO Road project was ongoing, with Julius Berger expected to handle the construction.
In his homily titled ‘Faithful Ministry’, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Warri, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Igolo, described a priest as a living image of Jesus Christ, entrusted with the responsibility of shepherding and caring for God’s people.
Igolo said the biblical significance of the number 40 was associated with spiritual preparation, refinement and transformation.
He said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the commitment and dedication required to sustain a fruitful priestly ministry.
In their separate remarks, Bishop Ewherido and Father Anamali thanked the governor, fellow bishops, priests, traditional rulers, government officials and other dignitaries for celebrating the milestone with them, describing their presence as a source of encouragement and joy.
