The Order of The Mother of God had another breakthrough in the Nigerian delegation on the 15th of August, 2014. This day, the people of God gathered together for the opening of a new school built by the Order through the sponsorship of the Bishops Conference of Italy and Esieggelle. The school, called St John Leonardi Nursery and Primary school is dedicated to our Father Founder, St John Leonardi. It is aimed to ensure an intellectual, moral, spiritual, physical and holistic formation and training of children in a conducive-learning environment where each child is exposed to modern learning facilities for a dependable future.The ceremony began at 11.00am with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. General, Very Rev Fr. Dr. Francesco Petrillo, omd. The Arch-bishop of Owerri, His Grace Anthony J. V. Obinna who gave his blessings to the ceremony was unavoidably absent as the day fell on the feast of Assumption of Our Blessed Virgin Mary which is also the feast day of Owerri Arch-diocese. After the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. General proceeded with the ritual of the blessing of the house which culminated with the cutting of the tape, thereby officially declaring the new school open starting from the next academic session in October. What followed after this was jubilation and dances of joy from all who were present.
The people of Amakohia were filled with joy that this mission which the Order of The Mother of God started for them as a catechetical program for their children; has resulted to the establishment of a school for their children. There were dances, special numbers and special presentations, all these made the occasion grand. Special dignitaries attended the ceremony, among whom are: His Grace, Anthony J.V. Obinna represented by the Chancellor- Very Rev Fr. Alphonsus Oha, The permanent secretary, Ministry of Education in Imo State – Dr. Chibuzor Iwuagwu, Superiors of Religious Congregations and lots more.
The ceremony was coloured by heavy refreshment of eating and drinking which ended at about 5pm.