Pope Francis pays tribute to 3 Catholic priests and 21 others in the Diocese of Sokoto

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A cross section of the laureates matching the church auditorium. PHOTO BY ANKELI EMMANUEL

BY ANKELI EMMANUEL, Sokoto –

The Pope of the Catholic Church, His Holiness, Pope Francis conferred the title of Monsignor on three priests of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto while 21 others were honored with the titles of Knights of Saint Gregory the Great, Knight of Saint Sylvester, Pro Exxlesia and Pontifical Medal and Benemerenti Medals.

Speaking in his goodwill message, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, who represented the Pope, prayed to God who enabled the recipients to be so honored to bless, increase and d open new pages in their spiritual journey to paradise.

“My dear Mosingnori, Pontifical Knights and medalists, it is necessary for you to know that your choice for these honors does not mean that you are the best; rather, it demonstrates that you represent the best in the diocese. It is a recognition of your selfless service to the Church and, by extension, to humanity”.

“Over the years, you have voluntarily contributed to the growth of the diocese by making available to the Church your resources, your prayers and your leadership skills. You have also excelled in your spiritual and family life; you have mentored and guided other Catholics and helped them reach Christian maturity”. Koukah said.

While calling on them never to denounce Christ for any material benefit, Bishop Kukah also urged the honorees never to oppress ordinary people just because God lifted them up.

He therefore stressed that as Christians they should practice humility, fairness and piety in their private and public lives.

The Bishop who decried that Nigeria is severely broken, however, added that as Christians, they must strive to be agents of reconciliation so that they can bring it back to normal.

“Prayer is important, but we must also work for peace. We will continue to pray for full peace to return to our country.”

The respected outspoken Bishop further noted that people need to be careful about the languages ​​they use, adding that no matter how hard it gets, we need to work hard together.

“Our country is a country of peace, but our problems will not be solved by prayer alone, but also by working for peace, ensuring justice and love for all, regardless of creed, religion, region and political affiliations.

Among those honored as Monsignors are Reverend Fathers Joseph Keke, Rt Rev Eugene Nwachukwu and JC Atado, while renowned media guru and former NTA National News Director Mr. Matthews Otalike Ameh and 5 others were honored with the Knight of Saint Sylvester, 5 other laureates obtained Pro Ecclesia and Pontiffice Medal, 7 people including Mr. Matthew Luka, the personal driver of Bishop Kukah all received Benemerenti medals.

NATIONAL ACCORD reports that the investiture ceremony held at the Holy Family Cathedral in Sokoto is the first of its kind with so many Catholic Pope laureates.

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