John ESENE   

It was indeed blissful when Valentine Nnamdi Orjiakor and Perpetual Chioma Oha (both from Ihiala LGA of Anambra State) wedded on November 22, 2025 at St. Mary Cathedral, Oke-Padre, Ibadan, Oyo State. The Chief Celebrant, Rev. Fr. Benedict Ugwuegbu assisted by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Azeez and Rev. Fr. Julius Akinyode welcomed all and sundry after the introduction of the program.

    The homilist, Fr. Gabriel Azeez told the groom “When it comes to marriage, you smile, calm down when somebody tempt you (unlike outside marriage) where you have to revenge when mocked or offended. Love Perpetual as Christ loves the Church. You have won the election after contesting with many others who failed and now, she is sitting beside you.”

   Turning to Perpetual, he said, “Respect Valentine always as your only lover and be ready to protect and defend him at all time; avoid anger! The primary reason why God instituted marriage is companionship; getting children is secondary.” Then he said to both, “With Jesus in your marriage, you will succeed as we saw in today’s Gospel when Jesus changed water to wine to rescue the couple. You have decided to marry each other: no turning back!” He congratulated parents of both bride and groom for their contributions which led to their growth before this union. He told the sponsors (Mr. Chukwudi Okonkwo and his wife) to follow up the sponsorships.

    Very Rev. Fr. Julius Akinyode, the Cathedral Administrator, blessed the newest couple before the Chief Celebrant Rev. Fr. Benedict Ugwuegbu concluded the Mass. Staff and students of St. Mary Model School and the Choristers of Mt. Zion CCRN were also present at the ceremony.