Mothers as Pillars of Faith: Onitsha CWO Marks 2026 Celebration

 

Mothers have been described as vital pillars of faith and key instruments of God’s love within both homes and the church, as Catholic women in the Onitsha Archdiocese, Anambra State, joined others globally to mark the 2026 Mother’s Day celebration.

The Director of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) in the archdiocese, Dr Ngozi Nwanosike, made the remarks during the celebration, expressing gratitude to God for life and the opportunity to witness another Mother’s Day. 

She urged women to remain steadfast in faith and deepen their commitment to prayer for wisdom, peace, and joy in their families.

Dr Nwanosike commended mothers for their consistent sacrifices and dedication, noting that while their efforts are often unnoticed by society, they are deeply valued by God. 

According to her, mothers continue to play a central role in shaping lives, strengthening families, and nurturing future generations through love, patience, and resilience.

Speaking on the theme of the celebration, “True Love in Action,” she said motherhood reflects divine love expressed through daily acts of care, endurance, and spiritual support within the home.

The President of the CWO Onitsha Region and organiser of the Basilica Zone, Lady Uju Ikpeama, called on younger mothers to learn from older generations in the upbringing of children. 

She expressed concern over what she described as declining parenting standards, warning against indecent dressing among children and over-reliance on domestic help in child-rearing.

She urged mothers to take greater responsibility in instilling discipline, values, and moral guidance in their homes.

Also speaking, one of the Onitsha Archdiocesan Chaplains of the CWO, Rev. Fr. Collins Okoye, described motherhood as a sacred vocation rooted in sacrifice, faith, and unconditional love. 

He said both the Church and society depend on the moral strength and example of mothers.

He encouraged women to remain models of Christian virtue, while promoting unity, mutual support, and perseverance in doing good.

Mothering Sunday in the Catholic Church is traditionally observed on the Sunday following the Solemnity of the Annunciation on March 25. 

However, this year’s celebration was rescheduled due to its proximity to Holy Week and Easter, following a directive by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria for a unified nationwide observance.