Onitsha celebrates Ave Maria Praise 2026 with community feast
Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work
Thousands of people gathered in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria, for Ave Maria Praise 2026, an event hosted by Faithspiration Initiative to honor the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Faithspiration Initiative, founded by Very Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike, organized the celebration at SS. John and Paul Catholic Church in Awada. Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Aloysius Maduka Agba offered an opening prayer and represented the Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev.
Valerian Maduka Okeke, who praised Faithspiration Initiative as a group dedicated to spreading the gospel. Former Anambra State governorship candidate, Mr. Valentine Chineto Ozigbo, shared a personal spiritual experience and encouraged attendees to embrace the Rosary and their Catholic faith. Rev. Fr. Barr. Johnbosco Igwe delivered a lecture on Marian spirituality, emphasizing trust, gratitude, poverty, contemplation, and resilience as core aspects of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s life. Fr.
Adimike expressed gratitude to those who supported the event, including the Archbishop, Fr. Agba, sponsors like Engr. Eric Anyamene, and members of Faithspiration Initiative. The celebration included the cutting of a birthday cake, distribution of food and cash to people in need, and performances by gospel artists and comedians. Fr. Adimike noted the diverse attendance, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds to honor the Virgin Mary.
