By Philomina Attah
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has warned public leaders against living in unbridled luxury while citizens struggle for basic necessities, infrastructure, healthcare and security.
Kaigama gave the warning on Sunday during his homily at St. Matthew’s Parish, Karmo, Abuja, where he paid a pastoral visit to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Speaking on the theme, “Those who stray can return to righteousness,” the Archbishop urged those in positions of authority to recognise that leadership required humility, selflessness, and accountability.
“To our leaders in authority, Prophet Ezekiel’s message is an urgent warning: justice is not optional.
“You cannot hide behind political titles while presiding over systems that make life difficult for the common person,” Kaigama said.
Drawing from the Gospel parable of the two sons sent into the vineyard, the prelate noted that many Christians express quick obedience with their lips on Sunday mornings, yet fail to act out that devotion from Monday to Saturday.
According to him, conversion is an ongoing journey and genuine transformation begins when a person becomes dissatisfied with an inadequate way of life and takes concrete steps toward a new direction.
“Christianity is not the story of people who have never made mistakes. It is the story of people who continually allow God’s grace to transform them.
“The Christian life is not about never falling; it is about never becoming comfortable with remaining fallen,” he stressed.
The cleric commended the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Boniface Ngene, his associate, Fr. Joshua Aese, and the parish community for maintaining their vibrant faith and joy in spite of current economic hardship.
He encouraged the newly confirmed candidates and parishioners to utilise the Sacrament of Reconciliation, avoid pride and selfishness, and consistently seek the common good of all.
Kaigama prayed for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Matthew, asking God to grant the faithful the humility to recognise when they go astray and the courage to turn back. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
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