July 9, 2025 marked not just a milestone for the Episcopal Evangelical Communion Diocese of Owerri , but also a celebration of 36 glorious years of priesthood for Rt. Rev. F.O. Nwaodu.
As the congregation, families, youth, and elders gathered, with their hearts brimming with gratitude.
Bishop Nwaodu who stood before his congregation, said “The Lord has been so good to this Church,”
He took a moment to transport everyone back in time, recalling the day of his ordination 36 years ago at Christ Kingdom Apostolic Church Obohia Road, Aba.
“I remember the nervous excitement I felt, the laying of hands, and the sacred vows I made to serve.”
“It was a day that marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment.”
In the nine years that followed, Bishop Nwaodu dedicated himself to God’s service, honing his skills as a shepherd of souls.
He shared stories of his early days that touched the Congregation.The ups and downs, moving from one community to the next, spreading the message of love, hope, and redemption.
Bishop Nwaodu also spoke of the unwavering support of the congregation that made possible the establishment of students priest quarters and a theological school.
“Your faithfulness and generosity have borne fruit in ways we could never have imagined,”
He however explained how the diocese had grown, not only in numbers but also in spiritual depth.
Bishop Nwaodu recalled the pivotal moment in December 2004 when he was consecrated as bishop.
“That year was monumental, and just a year later, we gathered for our first Episcopal Anniversary and Synod,”
“Those motions we moved back then laid the groundwork for the thriving community we are today.”
He declared that the celebration of the day was not merely a reflection of years passed, but a reaffirmation of their commitment to God’s commandments.
“Today is not just about reminiscence, it is a remarkable day in the history of our old yet young church, a day to reflect on our achievements and to plan for a future of even greater service to humanity.”
With a heart full of thanksgiving, Bishop Nwaodu led the congregation in prayer, a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the journey they had undertaken together, the challenges, the triumphs, and the unwavering faith that had sustained them.
He urged everyone to continue to work together, to serve without fear, and to remain committed to the teachings of Christ.
“In this celebration of 36 years, let us also recommit ourselves to the mission that lies ahead.
“May our hearts be ever open to the new paths that God will guide us on”.
With every hymn sung and every soul touched, the legacy of Rt. Rev. F.O. Nwaodu continued to thrive, a testament to a life dedicated to God and His people, illuminating the path for generations to come.
Maryam Festus said “I feel so good and exited that my dad, despite everything is alive to experience this happy moments.
“He is a good, loving and caring father who can sacrifice his happiness for others to be happy.
” I pray for good health and God ‘s favour upon him and for God to help him grow this church above what it is today.”
Rev Ugochukwu said “Before i joined this church i was no body. The moment i find my self here i became somebody. Bishop Nwaodu is a to all. He doesn’t discriminate, everybody is equal before him.
“I am very happy working with him and will not regret knowing him. I want to thank God for him.”
Rev. Canon Mike Nwanyawu.
“We here today to celebrate the anniversary of our bishop, the 36 years of his enthronement and consecration as a priest in His vein yard, and 36 years of the church.
” It has not been easy building and raising souls and raising people that can stand for Christ.
” For this 36 years the church has made a remarkable achievement, we have fashioned out a doctrine, an order for the church, a lay down rules and principal.
“We have moved away from from the ordinary Pentecostalism to full Episcopal by ensuring that we have direct ordination as reverend which takes some years.
“Now we have a theological school, there is a primary secondary school and we have branches, we are believing God that that as we move ahead, He will be opening ways for us.”
Rev. Superior Chidinma Enwerem Ejiogu
“I am very happy to be among those that celebrated this 36 years anniversary. It has not been easy, despite the odds we still have the grace to stand and with ness today.
“For 36 years, we have done enough, but not a enough to say because the ups and downs in it is too much, but i believe in the years to come, we will achieve more than we have achieved so far.
