Status of Pontifical Right
In October, 2008, we received the good news from our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI and the Decree of our recognition as a Congregation of Pontifical Right. The Decree granting our Congregation the status of Pontifical Right was approved on the 26th of September 2008
On the 17th of December 2008, a celebration of this recognition of our Congregation, the Congregation of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus Sisters took place with many Bishops, Priests (where our sisters are working), Religious of other congregations, Catholic lay faithfuls, friends and well wishers from all over the country and outside Nigeria were present to felicitate with us. Those who could not make it sent us their goodwill messages, all of which were published in the commemorative brochure.
His eminence, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, the Archbishop of Lagos concelebrated the Thanksgiving High Mass with two other Bishops and many priest from the Archdiocese of Lagos at Saint Leo's Catholic Church, Ikeja.
The Mass and atmosphere was beautiful with the faces of all those present, particular our sisters was radiant
with joy. The Mass began with a long procession of the priests and bishops who had come to celebrate with us.
One of our sisters was on hand to run the commentary on the occasion, while the host Parish priest,
Msgr. J. K. A. Aniagwu, gave a lay man explanation on what the Pontifical Right meant. After the Readings
and Gospel (about the 10 lepers who were cured by Jesus with only one returning to give thanks), centered on the
importance of giving thanks. His eminence, in delivering the sermon was quick to remind us sisters that
the status conferred on the congregation was as a result of the hard work, dedication and devotion we had
shown in the prior years leading to this achievement and that should never allow our the zeal to diminish.
He ended by exhorting us to always give thanks.
Following the sermon was the reading of excerpts of the Letter from the Vatican granting us the Status of
Pontifical Right.
The offertory procession and presentation of gifts was a beautiful thing to see as each section of the
Congregation was represented, carrying fruits and other gifts items for presentation to the celebrant.
It was a joyful and festive mood afterwards when we had a grand reception at the Church compound. Therewas much to eat, drink and feast on.
Links:
Letter of His Eminence on the Pontifical Right
Letter of His Excellency, Most Revd. Dr. Renzo Fratini, Papal Nuncio to Nigeria
