Cathedraticum at Regina Pacis
Regina Pacis Pastoral Region, Ihioma, hosted its annual Cathedraticum on March 28, 2026, bringing together clergy, religious and lay faithful from across the region in a celebration of faith, solidarity and support for the Diocese.
The celebration was attended by the Catholic Bishop of Orlu, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma, and the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu, Most Rev. Thomas Obiatuegwu, along with priests from parishes across the pastoral region.
The Mass began at 9 a.m., with Bishop Obiatuegwu presiding. In his introductory remarks, he thanked God that the celebration had returned to the regional headquarters after being held at the cathedral for the past four years because of insecurity.
“We are back to our regional headquarters,” he said, drawing applause from the faithful. He prayed for God’s continued guidance and protection as the people journey together in faith.
In his homily, Bishop Obiatuegwu thanked the groups, associations and organizations that contributed to the success of the celebration. Reflecting on the diocesan Lenten pastoral theme on motherhood, he said motherhood is not defined only by childbearing but also by tenderness, care and sound guidance.
He urged mothers to look to the Blessed Virgin Mary as their model and encouraged teachers, instructors and fathers to embody maternal virtues in their own roles. He also called on husbands and children to support mothers through good conduct and cooperation.
“What would the world be without mothers?” he asked, while praying for God’s strength upon mothers everywhere.
After the post-Communion prayer, the regional dean, Fr. Capt. Stephen Okafor, thanked God for the favorable weather and expressed gratitude to the bishops, priests and all who participated. He also thanked the Cathedraticum committee, led by Fr. Remigius Udeze, and recognized Prof. Jude Egwurugwu and others for their commitment and sacrifices.
The results of the Cathedraticum competition were announced as follows:
Grade D
Third place: St. Anthony’s, Umudioka-Ukwu
Second place: St. Michael’s, Amazu
First place: St. Mary’s, Amanaogu
Grade C
Third place: St. John of the Cross, Amaruru
Second place: St. Camillus Chaplaincy
First place: St. Theresa’s, Okporo
Grade B
Third place: St. Joseph’s, Amaifeke
Second place: St. Martin’s, Ihitteowerri
First place: All Saints, Okwuabala
Grade A
Third place: Holy Ghost, Ihitenansa
Second place: St. Martin’s, Owerre-Ebeiri
First place: Holy Trinity, Orlu
Super Grade A
Third place: Regina Pacis, Ihioma
Second place: St. Mary’s, Amaifeke
First place: St. Joseph’s, Umuna
Primary Schools
Third place: Trinitas Nursery and Primary School, Orlu
Second place: St. Martin Nursery and Primary School, Owerre-Ebeiri
First place: St. Maria Goretti Nursery and Primary School, Umuna
Secondary Schools
Third place: Urban Secondary School, Umuna
Second place: Holy Rosary Girls Secondary School, Ihioma
First place: St. Maria Goretti Girls Secondary School, Umudioka
Tertiary Institutions
First place: School of Health Technology, Okporo
Organizations
Third place: Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria
Second place: Catholic Men Organization
First place: Catholic Women Organization
Individuals
First place: Prof. Egwurugwu family
Second place: Sir Marcel and Lady Loveth Dara
Third place: Mrs. Janet Uzondu
Bishop Obiatuegwu later announced the overall results.
Overall Results
Third place: Regina Pacis Parish
Second place: St. Mary’s, Amaifeke
First place: St. Joseph’s, Umuna
In his vote of thanks, Bishop Ukwuoma expressed deep appreciation for the generosity of the faithful and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon all.
The celebration concluded with thanksgiving from various parishes, schools and organizations. Bishop Ukwuoma imparted the final blessing, and a grand reception followed.