Awka Diocese Calls for Holiness, Prudence in Public Life at CCRN Pentecost
By Chizoba Njaka
The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has commended members of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Nigeria (CCRN), Awka Diocese, for their steadfastness and preparedness to receive the Holy Spirit.
Delivering a sermon at the grand finale of the Awka Diocesan CCRN 2026 Pentecost programme at St. Patrick’s Church, Awka, the bishop praised participants for prioritising the spiritual event despite concurrent civic engagements in the state.
Bishop Ezeokafor reminded the faithful that the law of God is not contained solely in Scripture but is also preserved in the Catholic Church’s sacred tradition, which complements biblical teaching. He encouraged congregants to ground their words in Scripture while remaining faithful to Church teachings.
The prelate emphasised that the presence of the Holy Spirit in an individual is evidenced by the fruits of the Spirit reflected in personal character. He urged believers to seek wisdom defined as practical knowledge that strengthens faith and informs daily conduct so they may defend their convictions rather than follow popular opinion.
Bishop Ezeokafor warned against idolatrous practices and called on Catholic faithful to be deliberate about whom they worship. He exhorted the congregation to cultivate holiness and the fear of God, and to bear the fruits of the Spirit as they advance in their spiritual journey. Addressing the Church’s social role, he noted that while the Church ministers to spiritual needs, it also collaborates with government on matters of social welfare.
He commended the state government’s infrastructure initiatives, including road and health projects, and appealed to residents to avoid building too close to roads to prevent obstruction when new roads are constructed. He urged authorities to sensitize the public on regulations and to exercise compassion where violations occur.
On governance and civic responsibility, the Bishop Ezeokafor prayed for wise leadership from the governor and discouraged the practice of sit-at-home orders, stressing that government is the highest authority with the instruments to ensure order. He said improved security in the state means there is no justification for refusing to work, and urged personal conscience and industry among citizens.
He also cautioned against scheduling funerals and other major social events during working hours, noting that frequent disruptions can harm businesses and public service delivery. He appealed for restraint in emotionally charged speech toward one another and underscored the importance of principled leadership for good governance and the common good.
As recipients of the Holy Spirit, he called on Christians to use the renewed spiritual empowerment to make informed choices at the ballot box in the 2027 general election, urging voters to select candidates who will promote effective governance. He observed that Nigeria is richly endowed and must wisely harness its resources.
In his welcome address, the Diocesan Coordinator of the CCRN, Bro. Emma Ugwuokwo, echoed the call for renewed spiritual empowerment. He stressed that without the Holy Spirit, believers cannot operate at full capacity or fulfil their divine purpose. Bro. Ugwuokwo described the programme as an opportunity for a fresh outpouring of the Spirit and urged participants to open their hearts and present themselves as willing vessels to receive divine power.