The Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Yohanna, has officiated a mass wedding for 21 couples in Niger State.
The ceremony took place at St. Mark Catholic Church in Nsanji Nkoso, Magama Local Government Area, uniting couples who had completed their traditional marriage rites and undergone three months of marriage counselling.
Importance of Church Blessing
Bishop Yohanna emphasised that marriage must be legally recognised and blessed by the church, stating that cohabitation without this is improper. He urged the couples to build their unions on love and companionship, reminding them that marriage is a lifelong commitment.
Gratitude from Newlyweds
Among those married were Mr. and Mrs. Cyprian Uche, who had been cohabiting for 22 years and have five children. They expressed their gratitude to the bishop for helping them formalise their union. Mrs. Uche noted that she could now fully participate in the women’s fellowship, something she had been previously unable to do.
Rigorous Preparation
Parish priest Rev. Fr. Francis Joshua confirmed that the couples had met all requirements before being joined in holy matrimony. He commended the bishop’s dedication and encouraged the newlyweds to remain faithful to their vows.