“Jesus came to serve, not to be served, but a growing culture of self-centeredness within the Church is undermining this mission,” Bishop Dunia said.
He expressed concern about the rising desire for immediate gratification at the expense of spiritual depth among those he said claim to be Christians.
“People do all sorts of things to achieve personal satisfaction, no matter how short-lived it is,” the Local Ordinary of Auchi said, urging the Church to counter this mindset by intensifying its teachings on selflessness and humility.
Bishop Dunia underscored the importance of catechesis rooted in authentic discipleship, saying, “Those who teach must be convinced of what they are teaching.”
He advocated for early and consistent catechesis to instill humility and detachment from materialism in children.
“It is not indoctrination. We are here not to use material things to oppress or satisfy our desires while forgetting our ultimate destination. Life is a journey; focusing solely on earthly gains leads to failure and regret,” Bishop Dunia said.
Reflecting on the Catholic Church in Nigeria 60 years after the Second Vatican Council, the 67-year-old Catholic Bishop expressed concern over deviations from core Christian tenets.
He faulted acts of service motivated by the need for recognition rather than humility, saying, “Many, even within the Church, serve with ulterior motives, seeking influence. True service follows Christ’s example of selflessness.”
“When we give, it should not be to make others worship us but to serve in all sincerity,” the Catholic Church leader said.
Pointing to St. Paul’s unwavering mission to proclaim Christ regardless of personal comfort, Bishop Dunia urged Christians to emulate the Apostle’s example.
