2022 Advent Message of Most Rev. John Namaza Niyiring, OSA, Bishop of Kano Diocese
Dear brothers and sisters,
I am beginning this Advent in Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral, our Mother Parish. The word ‘Advent’ comes from Latin and means ‘to come’. The Church gives us the four weeks of Advent so that we can properly prepare for Christmas, when Jesus first came into the world, but also to help us “stay awake” as we wait for when Christ comes again in glory at the End of time (Parousia).
This has been a very difficult year for us all and no one has been a stranger to uncertainty and anxiety. Advent points to the longed-for Messiah, who when he came surpassed all expectations. Advent is such a rich Season whose themes can speak powerfully to us in our weaknesses:
HOPE – recognising in our vulnerability our need of God.
EXPECTATION – Our hope is not wishful thinking but rooted in the truth that God always keeps his promises.
PATIENCE- Learning to wait.
REPENTANCE- Accepting John the Baptist’s cry to ‘Prepare the Way of the Lord’.
TRUST – Often we will not understand, or perhaps even like God’s ways, but Mary and Joseph teach us to willingly surrender in faith to his loving plan.
There has been much recent calls and sensitization on the good people of Nigeria to go get their voter’s card for the forth coming general elections. We know that without the card, one cannot exercise his or her civic rights.
I hereby invite you all in the next elections to vote wisely for people who will represent your interests and unite this country and leaders who you trust with your votes.
Dear people of God December will allow us to focus on Advent. I invite you to embrace this season of Advent and allow its rich themes to touch your hearts. If you do, you will not only be strengthened by the Lord at this difficult time but also be better prepared for Christmas.
May Mary, Star of the Sea, guide you and your families this Advent. God bless you all.
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