The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), an NGO, has lauded Bishop Peter Okpalaeke on his elevation and enthronement as a Cardinal of the Catholic Church by Pope Francis.
This is contained in a congratulatory message issued in Enugu on Sunday by Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme and Mr Chidi Mbah, who are Chairman and Secretary respectively of CLO in Anambra.
It would be recalled that Pope Francis made the enthronement of Bishop Okpalaeke on Saturday, August 27 in Rome.
The message, which is themed: “Reward for Good Work is More Work”, described Okpalaeke as a selfless, humble, honest and hardworking servant of God.
“Bishop Okpalaeke has displayed unprecedented perseverance, tolerance, humility, love of God, his flocks and humanity as Bishop of Ahiara Diocese and currently as Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese of the Catholic Church.
“There is no doubt in our minds that you deserved such elevation and you have the wherewithal to live up to your new exalted position beyond expectation.
“We pray to God to give you more wisdom, grace, spiritual power, good health and all enablement in carrying out spiritual duties of your new position as cardinal of the Catholic Church.
“We equally commended the pope for his unique wisdom in finding Okpalaeke worthy of elevation as cardinal,” he said.
CLO called upon the clergy and lay faithful of the church to also remember Okpalaeke, Ekwulobia Diocese and Catholic Church in their prayers.
“CLO is wishing Cardinal Okpalaeke more spiritual blessings in his new assignment and years ahead beyond measures through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen,” he said.
