“The Invisible God Made Visible”: Archbishop Akubeze Celebrates Landmark 2026 Cathedraticum at Abudu Deanery
ABUDU, EDO STATE – In a powerful display of ecclesial communion and spiritual fervor, the Catholic faithful of Abudu Deanery gathered at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The occasion was the annual Cathedraticum, a sacred tradition that this year took on added significance as the Archdiocese prepares to celebrate the 20th Episcopal Anniversary of its Shepherd, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze.
The event brought together a distinguished assembly, including the Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Augustine Ehigie; the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Oyanoafoh; and the host Dean, Very Rev. Fr. James Chima, alongside traditional chiefs, knights, and religious congregations.
A Theology of the Cross and the Sacred Icon
Delivering a homily titled “The Invisible God Made Visible in Christ on the Cross,” Archbishop Akubeze offered a masterclass in Catholic doctrine. He addressed the "Angelic Doctor," St. Thomas Aquinas, reminding the congregation that "truth does not belong to opinions or convenience; truth is from God."
A major highlight was the Archbishop’s spirited defense of the use of sacred images in worship. Addressing common critiques from "separated brethren," he clarified:
"God once forbade idols, but the same God commanded sacred images like the bronze serpent and the cherubim. The problem is not the image; the problem is idolatry. In Christ, the invisible God took a face. Therefore, Christ can be depicted. Icons are not objects of worship; they are windows to heaven."
He urged the faithful to reclaim the tradition of icons in their homes, using them as tools to deepen devotion and remind the world that heaven is real.
15 Years of Apostolic Growth
The Archbishop used the occasion to render an account of his stewardship, marking 15 years as the Metropolitan of Benin City and 39 years of priesthood. He noted that the Archdiocese has seen a surge in:
- Vocations: More candidates ordained to the priesthood and more catechists commissioned.
- Expansion: New parishes established and churches built in rural areas.
- Sacramental Life: A rise in Baptisms and Confirmations among the youth.
"These are not mere statistics," the Archbishop stated. "They are living testimonies that Christ is active in our midst. The growth of the Church is the fruit of your prayers and sacrifices."
The "Tax of Love" and Social Justice
In his welcome address, the Dean of Abudu, Very Rev. Fr. James Chima, described the Cathedraticum as a "tax of love" (referencing Canon 1263). He emphasized that the support of the laity ensures the "integral development of the human person" across the Deanery. Quoting an African proverb, he remarked, "The soup that is sweet is made by the contribution of all," highlighting the collective responsibility of the sheep to provide for the Shepherd.
The Archbishop echoed this call for unity, challenging the faithful to be like Moses—interceding for those who oppose them rather than seeking "back to sender" prayers. "We are not called to recycle evil," he reminded them, "we are called to overcome evil with good."
High Point: A Harvest of Generosity
The liturgical celebration reached its peak during the presentation of gifts. In a vibrant procession, the parishes of Abudu Deanery presented cash donations and material goods to the Archbishop. These contributions are earmarked for the ongoing development of the Church, specifically to fund charity for the needy and to sustain growth in under-resourced rural parishes.
As the event concluded, the Archbishop entrusted the families of Abudu to the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying that their lives become "living icons" of Christ’s love in society.
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