The 25th Anniversary of Guardian Angels Motherless Babies (GAMB) Home was a day filled with joy, reflection, and profound gratitude. On 15 August 2024, at Nwanne Di na Mba, Emene, the air was thick with emotion as the community gathered to celebrate this milestone and witness the blessing of the newly constructed Nursing House and Staff Quarters, named in honour of Rev. Sr. Lucy Ohadomere, a woman whose legacy continues to inspire.
The event commenced with a Pontifical High Mass, celebrated by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, His Lordship Most Rev. Dr. C.V.C Onaga. The Mass was a spiritual anchor for the day, drawing together the faithful in prayers of thanksgiving for the years of service and love GAMB has offered to countless children in need. The serene yet powerful ambience of the Mass underscored the profound impact of GAMB's (a project of CIDJAP) mission. Sr. Martin Agnes, in her welcome address, beautifully articulated the journey of GAMB over the past 25 years, emphasizing the home's commitment to nurturing not just the bodies but also the spirits of the children entrusted to its care.
After the Mass, Bishop Onaga, accompanied by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike and the top management of CIDJAP moved to bless the Nursing House and Staff Quarters. Naming these quarters after Sr. Lucy Ohadomere, of blessed memory, was a great moment, as her life was one of selfless service and unyielding love for the most vulnerable. As the Bishop sprinkled the holy water, there was a collective sense of her presence, a spiritual acknowledgement that her work and spirit continue to thrive within the walls of GAMB.
The celebration continued with an opening remark by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, whose words resonated deeply with the crowd, spoke with emotion of the staff's sacrifices and dedication, the community's unwavering support, and the grace that has sustained GAMB through the years. His gratitude was palpable, and as he concluded, the GAMB staff welcomed everyone with a heartfelt song, a melodic expression of the love that drives their work.
The cutting of the Anniversary cake, led by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike was a symbolic moment of unity and celebration. It was more than just a cake; it was a testament to 25 years of collective effort, resilience, and unwavering belief in GAMB's mission. The cake's sweet taste reminded us of the sweetness that GAMB has brought into the lives of many children.
A short drama performed by the GAMB staff followed, depicting the journey of a childless mother trusting God for the fruit of the womb, came to GAMB, and the children prayed for her, and she conceived and gave birth to a bouncing baby boy. The performance, though simple, was both touching and powerful, leaving many in the audience with tears of joy in their eyes. It was a reminder of why GAMB exists—to be a beacon of hope in a world that can often seem indifferent.
The cultural dance by the GAMB staff was a vibrant celebration of life, joy, and community. The rhythmic beats and graceful movements reflected the rich cultural heritage of "ndi Igbo" and the joyous spirit that GAMB embodies. It was a fitting tribute to the home's 25-year journey, filled with moments of struggle but also with countless victories.
As the event drew to a close, the formalities concluded with prayers and blessings, marking the end of a day that will remain etched in the hearts of all who attended. The 25th Anniversary of Guardian Angels Motherless Babies Home was not just a celebration of a milestone but a reaffirmation of the commitment to continue the sacred work of caring for the motherless and the vulnerable.
Guardian Angels Motherless Babies Home stands as a testament to the power of love, faith, and community. As we look to the future, we are reminded of the words spoken by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike said in his vote of thanks, "May we continue to be the guardians of these angels, with hearts full of love and hands ready to serve." The day ended with a renewed sense of purpose and the knowledge that GAMB will continue to be a place of refuge, love, and hope for many years to come.
