Rev. Fr. Maurice Emelu, PhD, the Founder of Gratia Vobis Ministries, (GVM), INC, USA.
From Everest Ezihe, Orlu
In view of the economic hardship being experienced by most Nigerians, and worried by the lacks of essential commodities and daily hunger been suffered by many families, especially in rural communities and People Living with Disabilities, as a philanthropic measure to cushion these, Gratia Vobis Ministries, lnc, USA has advanced plans to supply for free, one month food supplies to 1,000 families constituting 5 persons in each of the families totally 5,000 beneficiaries in Umuchima ancient community in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria.
Rev. Fr.Maurice Emelu, PhD, the Founder of the international non governmental organization and Priest of the Catholic Diocese of Orlu said in a press release that the two days event, will be held this Wednesday 9th and Thursday 10th July, 2025 at the Umuchima Town public field, beside the C.I.C. Church along the Orlu – Umuchima- Akokwa ever busy road .
Emelu pointed out that the essence of the philanthropic gesture is to show loving hospitality to the poor, in line with the biblical injunction that says, “for I was hungry, and you gave me food, I was thirsty, and you gave me drink, I was a stranger, and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35), and as christians, “we are called to embrace and uplift those who are most vulnerable.
“At the heart of this mission, is an initiative called “God’s VIPs,” a sacred gathering dedicated to 5,000 of the most vulnerable among us (1,000 families, each with five members). Through this initiative, each family will receive a month’s food supply, including a 50-kg bag of long-grain rice, a 10-kg bag of beans, and cash for essential condiments.
“However, beyond providing nourishment, we aim to offer heartfelt prayers, inspire joy, and cultivate a deep appreciation for the poor as individuals of equal dignity.
“July 10th is the highlight of our mission. There will be a grand banquet honoring our guests as true VIPs. With a red carpet rolled out for them, they will be transported in luxurious buses from across the eastern region of Nigeria to a beautifully adorned venue at the Umuchima Town public field, beside the C.I.C. Church along the Orlu – Umuchima -Akokwa road, Imo State.
“After a Holy Mass at 10:00 am, we will host an eight-course dinner, ensuring that these beloved families feel cherished, celebrated, and recognized as the royalty they are in God’s eyes” he stated.
The revered man of God also noted that, the mission is partly inspired by the Holy Father’s (Pope) call for this year, (2025) as the Jubilee of Hope, a sacred time to renew our faith, deepen our love, and serve those in greatest need.
Emelu who’s also an Associate Professor of Communication & Digital Media at John Carroll University, US expressed delight that the year 2025 is significant to him as its cycle that coincides with his 50th birthday and the 20th anniversary of his priestly ordination, milestones he said that calls for gratitude expressed through service.
He further said that the philanthropism was embraced by the dedication of more than 350 Nigerians and US volunteers, noting Gratia Vobis Ministries, GVM has a core value of seeking to be a global hub for Catholic evangelization, fostering unity and spiritual growth across cultures while embodying its mission to bring the message of faith and grace to everyday life.
It’s pertinent to State that, the philanthropic ministry is divinely inspired by the vision and mission of Father Maurice Emelu, a renowned African priest from Nigeria, known for his exceptional ability to connect with diverse audiences, including the Western world and Africans, through the Catholic message of love, grace, and joy.
Moreso, GVM:Gratia Vobis Ministries, Inc. is a global Catholic ministry dedicated to sharing and living God’s love and Word. Founded in 2013, it is registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit religious organization in California and holds tax-exempt status.
