kaycee Oguh

Yesterday, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Knights of St. John International, Abuja Grand Commandery, led by the Grand President, Brig. Gen. Francis Ulonna Njoku, together with the Grand Respected President of the Ladies Auxiliary, Noble Sister Amaka Umeokeke. This initiative is part of our modest but deliberate contribution to the transformation of Nigeria. We believe that a better nation cannot be built by structures alone, but by men and women whose consciences are properly formed, whose faith is active in public life, and whose commitment to justice, peace and the common good is rooted in the Gospel. For this reason, the CSN will be taking members of the KSJI Abuja Grand Commandery through a structured course on the Social Teaching of the Church. In my remarks, it was noted that Christian faith can never be reduced to private devotion alone. Authentic faith must form consciences, inspire responsible action, and move believers to work for a more just, humane and peaceful society. While we cannot solve all the problems of the world at once, we must not become helpless spectators or prophets of despair. Each person must strive to light a candle in his or her own little corner rather than cause the darkness. When everyone does the little good within their power, the light begins to spread and darkness gradually loses its hold. This is especially true of the lay faithful who, as the Second Vatican Council teaches in Lumen Gentium, no. 31, are called by God to “work for the sanctification of the world from within, in the manner of leaven.” Catholic knights and ladies are therefore called to be credible witnesses not only within the Church, but also in their families, professions, communities and public life. The course will help members of the KSJI Abuja Grand Commandery to deepen their understanding of the dignity of the human person, the common good, solidarity, subsidiarity, justice, peace, responsible citizenship and care for the vulnerable. It will also strengthen their capacity to bring Catholic values into practical service for the Church and society. In his remarks, the Grand President, Brig. Gen. Francis Ulonna Njoku, expressed great enthusiasm about the collaboration, describing it as timely and enriching. He assured the CSN of the Commandery’s readiness to participate actively and to make the partnership fruitful for the good of the Church and society. We thank Rev. Fr. Augustine Akhogba for coordinating the Social Teaching of the Church programme in the CSN and for helping to give structure to this important initiative.