The Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Kano, Reverend Father Michael Adefemi Adegbola, has called on Christian faithful to turn away from darkness, embrace Jesus Christ, and become shining lights in a world grappling with evil, injustice and uncertainty.
Father Adegbola, who also serves as the Cathedral Administrator of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Cathedral, delivered the charge during the morning Mass at the Catholic Church in Kano.
In his homily, the cleric acknowledged that the world is presently overwhelmed by what he described as the “tyranny of evil, injustice and various forms of darkness,” which continue to affect families, communities and nations.
He noted that these challenges have tested the faith and resilience of many, but insisted that Christians must not surrender to fear or despair.
Reverend Father Adegbola urged believers to embrace the “light of salvation,” encouraging them to fear not and to place their total trust in Jesus Christ as their defender and source of hope.
According to him, anchoring one’s life on Christ remains the surest path to peace, love and victory over all forms of darkness confronting humanity.
The Vicar General also offered special prayers for Nigeria, asking God to sustain the nation amid its numerous challenges.
He prayed for divine intervention to break the powers of evil, dispel darkness across the land and restore hope to the people.
Father Adegbola advised Nigerians to exercise “extraordinary caution and vigilance” in the movement of vehicles and persons. While acknowledging the sad realities of terrorism, banditry and kidnappings, he maintained that God remains the “ultimate guarantor of security and safety.”
Some worshippers, including Joshua Musa and Theresa Samuel, expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to witness this year’s Christmas celebration.
They encouraged the wealthy to extend helping hands to the needy and called on all Nigerians to intensify prayers for peaceful coexistence and enduring unity in the country.
Abdullahi Jalaluddeen Kano.