The Archbishop assured the members of St. Anthony’s Church, Zuma that God will dwell in their newly dedicated church just as He did with Solomon’s temple.
“St. Anthony’s Church, Zuma, must now become a spiritual lighthouse – not just a building, but a witnessing community. A place where God is truly worshipped, where peace is preached, where justice is defended, and where love is lived,” he said.
To the 165 confirmands, Archbishop Kaigama urged them to spread the light of Christ throughout the world, becoming agents of God’s love and hope in a troubled world.
The Nigerian Catholic Archbishop called on the people of God in Africa’s most populous nation to practice acts of reverence, which he noted are “dying in our church today.”
“People come into the church and they show no sign of reverence whatsoever. As Catholics, we are known for showing reverence whenever we come into the church,” he said, encouraging Catholics to embrace a culture of reverence and teach their children the basics of respect in worship.
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“Teach them to know when to genuflect, bow, and kneel. Our postures and words should reflect the faith that dwells within us, a faith that finds its home in this sacred building,” he said.
The Local Ordinary of Abuja expressed gratitude to God and all those who contributed to the completion of the church.
“I look forward to dedicating more churches in the Abuja Archdiocese especially those in the 66 pastoral areas created a few years ago. We commend those who out of their resources are helping either to build a church, a father’s house, or to help purchase land which you know is very expensive in Abuja. We thank them sincerely. We look forward to more generous donors to advance the kingdom of God,” he said.
He implored, “May our Mother Mary continue to intercede for us and our nation, to open our ears to listen to the word of God, and to bring an end to corruption, hatred, and violence. It is not enough for Nigerians to claim that we are religious, we must show that we are religious in the true, positive, and edifying senses, and in conduct and character.”
Sabrine Amboka is a Kenyan journalist with a passion for Catholic church communication. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from St. Paul’s University in Kenya.
