Owerri Monstrance theft incident prompts Catholic Archdiocese to order urgent prayers after sacred Eucharist vessel was stolen from St Mulumba Parish

The Owerri Catholic Archdiocese Ecclesiastical Province has called for urgent prayers following the theft of a Monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament from St Mulumba Catholic Parish, in what church authorities have described as a deeply disturbing act of sacrilege.

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The incident reportedly occurred after unknown individuals broke into the parish premises, gaining access to the Adoration Chapel by tampering with the roof structure before making away with the sacred vessel.

Parish priest, Rev. Fr. Raymond Madu, confirmed that the intruders unlawfully entered the chapel and removed the Monstrance, which holds the Holy Eucharist, regarded in Catholic doctrine as the real presence of Christ.

The incident has triggered widespread grief among worshippers, with church leaders describing it as a serious violation of sacred tradition and religious belief.

In response, the Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, ordered immediate spiritual measures, directing a week-long programme of reparation prayers across the parish.

According to a statement issued by Archdiocesan Chancellor Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbara, the prayers are scheduled to run from May 1 to May 8, 2026, and will hold daily between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

The archbishop also issued strict directives to all priests within the archdiocese, urging full compliance with Eucharistic guidelines and ensuring that the Blessed Sacrament is never left unattended during exposition.

He stressed that proper observance of liturgical norms is essential to prevent future occurrences and safeguard the sanctity of Eucharistic worship.

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Archdiocese reaffirmed its commitment to pastoral care and spiritual guidance, stating that even in moments of desecration, the faith of the Catholic community remains steadfast.