Easter: Catholic Bishop Urges Reflection on Christ’s Resurrection
Ukamaka Okafor, Abuja
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abeokuta, the Most Rev. Dr. Peter Odetoyinbo, has called upon Nigerians to deeply contemplate the significance of Christ’s Resurrection amidst the current challenges facing the nation.
Bishop Odetoyinbo, who made the call in his Easter message, emphasised that the Easter season brings a message of hope and renewal, urging citizens to allow this spirit to influence their attitudes and aspirations.
He highlighted how Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection redefine notions of victory and glory, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and service to others.
“Christ through His death and resurrection has redefined our understanding of victory and glory. Glory is now perceived as the cross and sacrifice of the self rather than the conquest, acquisition of power and the right to rule. Though as the son of man, on him was conferred dominion, glory and kingship that is everlasting (Dan 7:14), yet He suffered and having been made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. (Heb. 5:9),” he said.
Speaking on the prevailing hardships in the country, the Bishop urged sincere introspection on individual and collective contributions to national challenges.
He lamented the prevalence of selfishness and the relentless pursuit of personal gain, which he identified as contrary to the principles of Christ’s teachings.
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“We must be sincere in asking ourselves how we have individually and collectively contributed to the present menace. No one is ready to make sacrifice for the other any longer as everyone seeks to enlarge his or her coast and build a private empire.
“As a people, we must all admit that we have made wrong choices in the past that did not encapsulate the plan for our common good and a better future for ourselves and posterity. This is the time to retrospect and make effort to fix Nigeria once and for all,” the clergy stated.
Furthermore, Bishop Odetoyinbo called upon the Nigerian government to intensify efforts in addressing key elements contributing to insecurity, such as poverty, marginalization, tribalism, and bigotry. He urged collaboration between citizens and the government to support local production and foster economic prosperity.
The Bishop implored patience and cooperation with the government while emphasizing the importance of sincerity of purpose in addressing the nation’s pressing issues.
Drawing parallels to the Easter story, he emphasized the need for endurance and mutual understanding in navigating through challenges.
“Let us be patient with the present administration and give them a chance to do their best for the interest of our country as we demand sincerity of purpose from the government as well. Christ endured pain for the sake of the glory and so after Good Friday came Easter Sunday.Let us be patient with one another as citizens and government. The outcry of the people is legitimate and Government should provide succour rather than try to suppress their voices,” he said.
