Orlu Diocese Celebrates Fatherhood with Nnaoma Di Ebube Merit Award
The Catholic Diocese of Orlu celebrated fatherhood with the conferment of the Nnaoma Di Ebube Merit Award, an honor recognizing men who have shown outstanding commitment, faith and service in the life of the Church.
To ensure proper organization and crowd control, the celebration was held on two consecutive Saturdays. The first ceremony took place May 16, 2026, for Regina Pacis and St. Michael pastoral regions. The second ceremony was held May 23, 2026, for St. Gregory and St. Theresa pastoral regions.
The ceremonies brought together a large number of the faithful in the presence of the Catholic Bishop of Orlu, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma, along with priests, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese. The Mass was presided over by the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu, Most Rev. Thomas Obiatuegwu.
In his homily, Bishop Obiatuegwu reflected on the Igbo cultural tradition of honoring people who distinguish themselves through virtue, excellence and service. He noted that although such noble practices have declined in society, the Church continues to recognize faithful Christians who show exemplary character and unwavering commitment to the Church.
He said this vision gives meaning to honors such as knighthood, Nnaoma, Nneoma, Ezinma and Ezinne.
Speaking on fatherhood, Bishop Obiatuegwu described St. Joseph as the perfect model of Christian fatherhood and the patron of all Nnaoma Di Ebube recipients. He said St. Joseph was a just and obedient man whose life showed humility, responsibility and attentiveness to God’s will. He encouraged fathers to imitate St. Joseph’s devotion, leadership and fidelity in family life.
The bishop also referred to the biblical figure Job, emphasizing the spiritual and intercessory role fathers are called to play in their families.
In his address, the diocesan Catholic Men Organization president, Nnaoma Comrade ThankGod Zimako, said Nnaoma Di Ebube remains the highest title conferred by the Orlu Diocesan CMO on deserving men who have contributed significantly to the growth of the Catholic faith and the Church.
He said the award is conferred solely through the authority of the bishop, making it a highly honorable and prestigious recognition.
Zimako also stressed that the award goes beyond social recognition and carries deep spiritual responsibilities. He said recipients are expected to live exemplary lives worthy of the honor given to them.
Citing the Igbo proverb, “Onye a na-ele ele anaghi atu na ntu,” he reminded the awardees that public recognition requires greater moral integrity, accountability and Christian witness.
Quoting from page 104 of the bishop’s 2025 Lenten pastoral letter, Zimako explained that honorific titles are not meant to canonize recipients or present them as perfect. Although they are called merit awards, he said, every merit ultimately comes through God’s grace.
He urged the recipients to see the honor not as proof of perfection, but as a call to continue embodying the virtues and values represented by the title.
The celebration highlighted the Diocese’s gratitude for fathers who serve their families, parishes and communities with faith, responsibility and love.