…Insists there is no disposable marriage
By Rachel Kogi
Saturday, November 23, 2024, was a day to remember for the families of Barrister Obeten and Dr. Mary Ewa, and Rt. Rev. Dr. Matthew and Rev. Mrs. Veronica Okpebholo, as their children, Mary Obeten Ewa and Testimony Okpebholo, tied the knot in a breathtaking celebration of love and commitment in Abuja.
The journey began with a solemn and uplifting Holy Mass at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church, Kaura, officiated by Most Rev. Dr. Anselm Umoren, the Auxiliary Bishop of Abuja, alongside 21 concelebrating Priests. The ceremony was a masterclass in the sacredness of marriage, emphasizing the virtues of faith, patience and love that bind two hearts together.
Bishop Umoren’s words to the couple were as profound as they were practical: “Draw strength and wisdom from those who have successfully navigated the challenges of marriage.”
Adding his voice to the moment, the bride’s brother, Rev. Fr. Godwin Apesuu, delivered a homily that resonated deeply. He warned against letting modern distractions—like the allure of mobile phones—overshadow the intimacy of marriage. “Grow in love with each other, not your devices,” he implored, while reminding everyone of the sanctity of the marital bond. Fr. Apesuu stressed that marriage is not a convenience to dispose of but a sacred union designed for love, hope, and companionship. While stating that we have other things like disposable cups, plates, spoon, cars and others, he stressed that there can be no disposable marriage. He asserted that God who created the primordial Sacrament made it to be lived.
Quoting the late Archbishop Gabriel Gonsum Ganaka, he left the couple with a powerful takeaway: “A prayerless family is an unmitigated disaster.” He encouraged Mary and Testimony to make prayer the foundation of their home, ensuring that love, mutual respect, and faith guide their journey together.
Following the church ceremony, the festivities moved to the grand Umaru Musa Yar’adua Centre, where Nigeria’s finest gathered to honour the newlyweds. The event was a kaleidoscope of elegance, with the crème de la crème of society in attendance.
Dignitaries included the Executive Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, former Edo State Governor Oserheimen Osunbo, former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, and Senator Clifford Ordia. The Esama of Benin Kingdom was also present in presentative capacity, with the Ojuromi of Uromi Kingdom, HRH Anselm Edenojie II also in attendance. Adding star power to the event were Nollywood icons like Mercy Johnson Okojie, whose children played key roles as the little bride, ring bearer, and flower girl.
Amid the celebrations, the bride’s mother, Dr. Mary Ewa, radiated gratitude. “We are overwhelmed with joy and deeply thankful to God and all our guests for honouring our children,” she said, praying for a joyful and blessed home for the couple. The bride’s brother, David Ewa, also echoed this sentiment, asking God to grant the couple abundant blessings and happiness.
Similarly, the groom’s parents, Rt. Rev. Dr. Matthew and Rev. Mrs. Veronica Okpebholo, expressed heartfelt thanks to all who graced the occasion, praying for a fruitful union for Mary and Testimony.
The day was not only a celebration of two families and cultures uniting but also a beacon of love, faith, and wisdom for all who attended. The message was clear: in a world of distractions, choose connection, prayer and enduring love.
