By Praise Chinecherem
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has congratulated Francis Cardinal Arinze on his attainment of ninety (90) years of age.
Soludo in a statement by his Press Secretary Christian Aburime described the cleric as a reference point to Catholicism and evangelization of the gospel in Africa and beyond.
Cardinal Arinze is Nigeria’s oldest Cardinal and Prince of the Holy Roman Catholic Church.
Governor Soludo said, “On this special day, I join well meaning Catholic faithful and well wishers all over the global space, to celebrate “Your Eminence.
“You have remained a reference point to Catholicism and evangelization of the gospel in Africa and beyond; a selfless Christian leader who commands respect and followership”. Governor Soludo noted
“Today affords us the opportunity to celebrate you and pray that God’s abundance grace continue to rest on your life as you clock 90 years”, Soludo prayed.
His. Eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze was born on November 1, 1932 to a humble Arinze home of Eziowelle in Anambra State, South Eastern region of Nigeria in West Africa.
He was ordained to the Catholic Priesthood on 23rd November 1958 by Cardinal Gregorio Pietro Agagianian and consecrated Bishop on the 29th day of August 1965 by Archbishop Charles Heerey of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha in Anambra State.
On 25th May, 1985, he was created Cardinal by His Holiness, Pope John Paul II.
