Lawrence Ndubeze, Awka
The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Anambra State, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to supporting all arms and groups that contribute to its growth and the salvation of souls.
Bishop Ezeokafor gave the assurance during a press briefing ahead of the first anniversary, admission, and investiture of new members of the Catholic Order, Knights of St. Michael the Archangel (CKSMA).
He emphasized that the Church comprises various charisms working together for its spiritual and structural edification, urging members to identify with groups that promote their faith and spiritual growth.
According to him, the Church has maintained strict adherence to the criteria for joining any religious society and will never compromise those standards, regardless of an individual’s social or financial status.
Describing CKSMA as unique for its remarkable impact within a year of existence, the bishop noted that all newly admitted members met the prescribed conditions.
He said, “The target of every Christian is salvation, and anything that helps you achieve that goal should be encouraged.
“We have standards for admitting members into the knighthood, and the major criterion is spirituality. We cannot compromise that because once you are made a knight, all eyes are on you.
“The knighthood is open to all Catholics as long as you meet the requirements after the publication of bans. You are not just picked randomly.
“We have knights who are catechists and even sweepers in the church who qualified because of their spirituality. Once you are truly good, it will reflect in your actions.
“These new knights were thoroughly scrutinized, and anyone lacking strong faith and spirituality was not admitted. Some voluntarily declined, saying they were not ready for such commitment.
“If we find anything lacking in your spiritual life, you won’t be made a knight—no matter how wealthy you are. It is purely a devotional order.”
The President of the group, Gen. Sir James Ezeonu, said the major highlight of the October 31 ceremony would be the establishment of a charity fund to support the group’s welfare and humanitarian activities.
He called on all Catholics, non-Catholics, priests, and laity to join in celebrating the event and supporting efforts to strengthen the order’s spiritual and charitable mission.
