Grace in Action: Thanksgiving Reflection on the Gratia Vobis Feeding of the Poor in Nigeria

A Grace-Filled Mission of Love. As we pause to reflect on the grace-filled experience of the Feeding of the Poor event, our hearts are filled with gratitude to God, whose providence and mercy guided every moment of this sacred mission. What unfolded in our midst was far more than a distribution of food—it was the embodiment of the Gospel lived out through the mission, vision, and values of Gratia Vobis Ministries.

Gratia Vobis, which means “Grace Be With You”, exists to proclaim the saving love of Christ through both word and deed. This event was a vivid reflection of that mission—bringing hope, dignity, and care to those often forgotten. In reaching out to feed the hungry in Nigeria, we witnessed grace in motion: the grace of God working through the generous, willing hearts of volunteers, donors, and prayerful supporters across the globe.

Living the Mission, Reflecting Christ

We give thanks that this Ministry remains rooted in Catholic faith and sacramental life. It is animated by a deep commitment to evangelization, service, and the preferential option for the poor. Through acts of mercy such as this, Gratia Vobis Ministries continues to live out its vision of forming Christ-centered, grace-filled communities. Communities that reflect the compassion and justice of God.

In every meal shared, every prayer offered, and every smile exchanged, the core values of Gratia Vobis—faith, love, humility, service, and unity—were made visible. We saw the face of Christ in the faces of children, mothers, and elders. They came not only for nourishment but also for companionship and hope. And we saw the Body of Christ come alive in those who gave of their time, resources, and hearts.

Renewed Commitment to the Kingdom of God

This event reminded us that our calling goes beyond charity. It is a call to build the Kingdom of God by walking with those who suffer. By lifting up the lowly, and by announcing the Good News in both our words and our actions. As Pope Francis reminds us, “The Church must be a field hospital.” And so, inspired by the vision of Gratia Vobis, we go forth renewed in our commitment to be vessels of God’s grace wherever there is hunger—physical or spiritual.

We offer our deepest thanks to all who made this mission possible. May the seeds of love sown during this event bear fruit in the lives of all who were touched. And may this be only the beginning of greater outreach, deeper solidarity, and a more just and compassionate society.

To God be all the glory. May His grace continue to be with us all. Amen.

[Readings: Joshua 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17; Matthew 18:21–19:1]

Fr. Nnaemeka Paschal Ajuka

Fr. Nnaemeka Paschal Ajuka, PhD., BCC., ACPE Certified Educator Candidate, is a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Umuahia, Nigeria, and a Board-Certified Chaplain with the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) and National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC). He is a retreat preacher who loves his faith. As a sociologist, he cherishes and operates from the vertical and horizontal relationships with God and neighbor. He takes Saint Francis of Assisi’s prayer for peace “Lord make me an Instrument of Peace,” as his ministry mission statement. He is a care provider who meets human needs without discrimination. He has been actively involved in the pastoral ministry in parishes in Nigeria and in the US. Previously, he was an adjunct lecturer at Seat of Wisdom Major Seminary Umuahia and the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria. Currently, he is a Certified Educator Candidate with the Department of Chaplaincy Services and Education, University of California Health, Davis, Sacramento.

1 Comments

  1. Jude Dioka on August 14, 2025 at 11:52 pm

    “Their sound is gone out into all lands.”
    And I heard it!
    Great event! Noble thinking! Trailblazer – the Gratia Vobis VIP Project!
    May the Loving, Merciful and Generous Lord be praised!
    And thanks and congrats to you, Fr Maurice, Fr Paschal, and all who extended that love, mercy and generosity of God to those who are most in need of it!
    Best wishes, God’s blessings, Mother Mary’s love and care!
    Fr Jude Dioka

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