The Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt has banned the serving and consumption of alcoholic drinks during monthly meetings of societies and organizations in the Diocese.
The Apostolic Administrator, Most Rev. Dr. Patrick Eluke, gave the directive on Saturday during a leadership seminar for newly elected officers of societies and organizations at Corpus Christi Cathedral, Port Harcourt.
He said monthly meetings are “prayer meetings and not social gatherings” and urged all groups to immediately review the refreshments served during such meetings.
Bishop Eluke also disclosed that the Diocese will begin investigations into reports of financial misconduct by some former heads of societies and organizations.
The issues under probe include alleged reckless spending of church funds and the use of ATM cards linked to society accounts while in office.
He clarified that the move was not intended to make the work of new officers difficult, but to entrench accountability and financial discipline.
To ensure transparency, the Bishop directed that there will be quarterly reporting for All heads of societies and organizations must submit financial updates of their groups every four months to his office through the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Benardene Anaele, or the Vicar for Laity, Rev. Fr. Polycarp Henetu.
According to him All bank accounts belonging to societies and organizations must include the Chaplain and two other executives as signatories.
He stressed that each society or organization is allowed a maximum of two bank accounts and cash imprest should not exceed N20,000 at any time.
The Prelate further directed presidents of societies and organizations to allow Treasurers and Financial Secretaries to perform their duties without interference.
He said the new measures are aimed at promoting transparency, responsible stewardship, and the spiritual focus of Catholic lay organizations in the Diocese.
