BY JOSEPH ODOEKWU, KSM
The ‘Our Lady Cause of Our Joy Curia’ of the Legion of Mary in Owerri, comprising presidiums from Irete, Orogwe, Ohi, and Ndegwu, demonstrated a profound expression of faith on Saturday, October 25, 2025, when members embarked on a rosary procession to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary and proclaim her to the world.
The spiritually charged procession, one of the highlights of this year’s October devotion, began at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ohi, and moved prayerfully along the Owerri–Onitsha Express Road before concluding at St. Helen’s Catholic Church, Irete.
Despite initial fears that rain might disrupt the programme, the legionaries turned out in large numbers, their faith undeterred. Their prayers were answered as the weather remained calm throughout the event, symbolizing divine favour on the faithful who gathered to celebrate the Mother of God.
At St. Helen’s Catholic Church, the legionaries were warmly received by the Parish Priest, Monsignor Patrick Ibole, who commended their steadfast faith and spiritual zeal. Confession was administered by several priests available to prepare the faithful for the Holy Mass, which is the climax of intercessory prayer.
The Holy Mass was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Simon Ogwo (chief celebrant), Rev. Fr. Ambrose Opara Chukwuebuka, and Rev. Fr. Christian Onwusiribe. It was a moment of homecoming for Fr. Ogwo, who grew up in St. Helen’s Parish before his priestly ordination in 2021.
In his homily, Fr. Chukwuebuka emphasized the indispensable role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the mystery of salvation, describing her as not only a virgin but the Mother of God who brought forth the Messiah, in fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.
Fr. Opara further dispelled heretical notions claiming that Jesus became God only at his baptism, reaffirming that He was divine from conception. Citing Isaiah 9:6, he declared, “From the moment Jesus was in the womb of Mary, He was God—the Mighty God foretold by the Prophet Isaiah.” He urged all to deepen their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, “a woman who never fails.”
Speaking with our correspondent, Bro. Anthony Okediran, President of Our Lady Cause of Our Joy Curia, Orogwe, said the event was designed “to make the Blessed Virgin Mary known and reknowned.” According to him, “Those who already know her will be spiritually renewed through this devotion, while those yet to know her will encounter her through this experience.”
He further invoked the example of St. Louis de Montfort, who tirelessly encouraged devotion to Mary, reminding the faithful that it is now their turn to sustain that legacy and seek heaven through her intercession.
The day’s event ended on a joyful note with a spiritual talk and renewed commitment among legionaries to continue spreading Marian devotion across parishes. For many, it was not just a procession but a living testament that true faith, when expressed in unity and prayer, moves heaven to act.
