Mbaise Priests’ Protest: Okpalaeke To Be Ordained Outside Mbaise
OWERRI — The Vatican has, in collaboration with the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri, concluded plans to ordain the largely rejected Monsignor Peter Okpalaeke as the new bishop of Ahiara Diocese.
Archbishop Anthony J.V. Obinna disclosed this yesterday, while delivering the homily during a Pontifical Sung Mass at Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri.
The Archbishop said: “Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the Bishop-elect of Ahiara Diocese, Monsignor Okpalaeke, will be ordained next Tuesday, at Seat of Wisdom Seminary, Ulakwo.
“We decided to organize the ordination away from Mbaise so as to give peace a chance” adding that Okpalaeke will stay outside Mbaise until the situation becomes clear for him to resume duties.
“Where it is not possible for him to resume in Mbaise, the Pope will decide on the next line of action. It is sad that what we are experiencing is a war between Catholics and Catholics.”
The cleric was visibly worried that some supposed Catholics brought a coffin and inscribed “Okpalaeke rest in peace” on the coffin, pointing out that it was the least thing anybody expected from a practicing Catholic.
He recalled that he had an opportunity to discuss the nagging Ahiara Diocesan with Pope Francis for about 25 minutes, adding that the Pope said he could not change the appointment.
“This is a test of our faith. Owerri Archdiocese is currently passing through a difficult time now. The world is watching us. I prefer to be abused by people than seeing myself doing the bidding of man,” Obinna said.
