Fr. Isara called for a renewed focus on catechesis and spiritual growth within the Nigerian Catholic Church, emphasizing the need to deepen the faith especially amid persecution. “The Church, hopefully, by God’s grace, will continue to grow,” he said.
He underscored the importance of catechesis, lamenting its decline in recent years, saying, “When I was growing up, every Sunday evening we went back to the church for catechesis. There was a teaching of doctrine. We need to restore the Church to that level.”
Speaking on the importance of vocations, the 59-year-old Nigerian Catholic Priest urged young people considering the priesthood or religious life to embrace the call.
“The Lord says the harvest is rich, but the laborers are few. We can never have enough Priests in this life. If there are young people today who want to be priests, welcome on board,” he said.
Fr. Isara assured those contemplating seminary life of the joy in serving God, while acknowledging the sacrifices involved.
He further expressed optimism about the future of the Nigerian Church, while reiterating the importance of deepening faith and embracing the sacrifices required for spiritual growth. “Nobody can chain the Church. Nobody can kill the gospel. St. Paul and Silas were chained in prison yet they were rescued by God because the word of God could not be chained,” the Priest said.
Abah Anthony John is a Nigerian Journalist with great enthusiasm and interest for Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria. He has vast experience in Print, Electronic and Multi-Media Production.
