Priesthood Or Not, Seek God’s Kingdom – AHOBA ’83 Told at Emotional Reunion In Onitsha
It was a moment of reflection, gratitude and deep brotherhood as members of the All Hallows Seminary Old Boys Association (AHOBA), Class of 1983, reunited in Onitsha and received a timeless charge: live righteously and never lose sight of God’s Kingdom, regardless of life’s chosen path.
Delivering the message, Rev. Fr. Patrick Udo of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha reminded his classmates that righteousness is not reserved for priests alone.
Speaking at the grand reunion held at All Hallows Seminary, he stressed that seeking God’s Kingdom transcends ordination, careers or titles.
“God does not call the qualified; He qualifies those He calls,” Fr. Udo said, noting that while some classmates became priests, others found fulfilment and success in different vocations.
According to him, priesthood is a divine calling, not a measure of superiority, and those who followed other paths “lost nothing.”
The reunion opened with a Holy Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Justine Ileka, also of the 1983 set, with a homily by Rev. Fr. Jude Udechukwu.
Members travelled from across Nigeria and Europe, describing the gathering as a rare opportunity to reconnect and celebrate decades of shared history.
Chairman of the Association, Chief Stephen Ifechukwu Okosieme, said the essence of the reunion was thanksgiving and service to God, noting that members of the class are today excelling in the priesthood, commerce and industry.
He recalled the rigours of seminary life, where perseverance was often tested.
The event was also marked by generous gestures, including a ₦2 million pledge by Mr Paulinus Ikechukwu Odogwu, a shuttle bus donated by Ikenna Okeke, educational support for prospective students of Shanahan University, and other donations to the seminary.
With laughter, prayers and heartfelt exchanges, the AHOBA ’83 reunion stood as a reminder that while destinies may differ, faith, friendship and purpose remain the true bond.
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