The Diocese of Nnewi in Nigeria has issued a statement addressing a controversial incident during the national Eucharistic procession on Sunday, November 24, 2024, which has sparked widespread discussion on social media.
The incident involved a female religious who, with the permission of a parish priest, carried the monstrance containing the Sacred Species and blessed the faithful during the procession.
The Diocese has called this act a “grievous misstep,” as such actions are strictly reserved for ordained priests or deacons.
A November 26 statement issued by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Raphael Ezeogu, indicates that according to diocesan regulations, no parish priest has the authority to empower a religious sister or extraordinary minister of the Eucharist to carry the Eucharist in the monstrance and give blessings to the congregation.
“The Diocese regrets the occurrence, as appropriate corrective measures will be put in place,” the statement said.
“It is crucial to clarify that the minister of the exposition and Eucharistic blessing must be a priest or deacon, in accordance with the clear ecclesiastical provisions,” the statement stressed.
The Diocese also reiterated the Church’s regulations regarding the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, emphasizing that only those with the appropriate ordination or specific permission from the local bishop can perform such rites.
The public nature of the incident, amplified by photos circulating on social media, prompted the Diocese to clarify the Church’s stance on these practices.
