CATHOLIC ENLIGHTENMENT NEW OUTREACH PROGRAM

Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Across the globe, there are growing clusters of sadness that pose a danger to the message of harmony brought by the Jesus Christ.

In Nigeria, the citizens’ lives are vulnerable due to a combination of physical insecurity and socio-economic hardship, creating a lack of joy.

The ongoing violence of groups like Boko Haram and other criminals add to the sorrow within the country, causing tears to flow continuously. Nigerians are increasingly disheartened by corrupt officials misusing state funds.

The sense of shared values is eroding, leading to a loss of collective citizenship and a weakening sense of humanity. A culture of moral uncertainty prevails, leaving numerous questions about public morality unanswered and dependent on personal whims. Basic concerns like food, jobs for the unemployed youth, university admissions, and even political developments lack definite answers.

The prevailing response seems to be “it depends.” This uncertainty fosters a void that contributes to criminality and violence, stemming from frustration, sadness, and a sense of hopelessness.
The prevailing coldness in society results from our mismanagement of the gifts and generosity bestowed upon us by God. Despite the abundant resources entrusted to us, our greed has made us poor stewards of these blessings. Instead of improving lives, access to resources has fueled hatred and avarice, leading to rising inequalities and despair.

A select few at the top are amassing wealth through questionable means, perpetuating a culture of waste and excess. This has led to a state where joy appears to be fading away from society. Our society’s deterioration today is a result of disregarding both divine and human laws. Superficial displays of exuberance and celebration shouldn’t be mistaken for genuine joy.

These displays often reflect materialistic shallowness. It’s the responsibility of the Nigerian state to establish conditions that allow citizens to experience true joy. This requires creating social environments where people can breathe and embrace joy, laughing and reconnecting with their humanity.

JOY TO A TROUBLED WORLD
Drawing from the words of Bishop Matthew Kukah, it is important for Christians to confidently and joyfully sharing their faith in Jesus Christ without fear. If they deny Christ, He will also deny us. Christians should embrace the Holy family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph as a model. St. Joseph’s dedication through hard work we also should find spiritual value in their daily tasks.

We must also cultivate the habit of praying together as a family to maintain unity and peace, by adopting the Family Rosary as a nightly practice and looking up to Our Lady as a role model.
In the face of widespread secularism, it is necessary that our children are groomed in the faith by participating in the activities of pious societies such as Legion of Mary, Block Rosary, Altar Servers, and Holy Childhood as these groups equip children with a strong Catholic foundation to confront future challenges.

Do not say these things are old school or there is no time, make out time to train your children in the way of the Lord. This in addition to an exemplary lifestyle by parents would provide a solid foundation for young people.
It’s crucial to remember that the joy offered by Jesus is not a favour that can be given or taken away; it’s a divine gift accessible to all without charge.

HAS RELIGION FAILED US?
In the midst of immense suffering and conflict, questions arise about the role of religion today. Some accuse religion of failing, while others hold it accountable for the world’s troubles. Both viewpoints lack accuracy.

However, believers cannot ignore their substantial role in the state of religion today. For Christians, the focus is on the teachings of Jesus Christ. Presently, Christians must step up and take responsibility for their actions or lack thereof in society.

This parallels the Catholic tradition of confessing sins during Mass, where we ask for forgiveness not just for our deeds but also for our omissions.
We’ve developed a habit of holding the government accountable for everything, using it as a shield for our own mistakes and oversights. Granted, our leadership hasn’t always been the best, but that shouldn’t serve as a justification.

While the government has a role in setting the stage, it’s essential for each individual to actively contribute to change. By taking our responsibilities seriously, we have the power to encourage the government to enhance its service to us.

CALLED TO BE WITNESSES OF JESUS CHRIST
Towards the conclusion of His earthly existence, Jesus called upon us to embody His testimony. This stands as a pivotal aspect of our Christian journey.

To bear witness entails conducting ourselves in a manner reflective of God’s essence. As Christians and leaders, our potent prophetic voices ought to remind that the powerful might be humbled from their positions while the humble could rise (Luke 1:52). It’s this genuine witnessing that led the non-Christian populace in Antioch to name Jesus’ followers as Christians (Acts 11:26).