By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, CSN
The newly appointed Apostolic Administrator of Port Harcourt Diocese, Most Rev. Patrick Eluke, has emphasisedย the importance of unity among the faithful in the diocese. In his homily at the 2025 Chrism Mass held at the Cathedral on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Bishop Eluke stressed that “our unity is our strength and disunity can lead to stagnation and failure.”
Highlighting the significance of collaboration and collective responsibility, Bishop Eluke underscored the need for priests and laity to work together to achieve the mission of Christ in the Diocese. He expressed gratitude to the priests for their dedication and selfless service, acknowledging the physical and emotional demands that come with their role.
The bishop reminded the priests of their multifaceted role, stating, “Like Christ, you are also a priest, prophet, and king. You are a priest to bless and sanctify, you are a prophet to speak the truth, and you are a king to lead and guide the people of God.” He also reminded them of their identity as “forgiven sinners” called to bear witness to God’s mercy and compassion.
Furthermore, Bishop Eluke emphasised the crucial role of both priests and laity in spreading the good news and bringing healing to a broken world. He highlighted the importance of prayerful support from the laity in enabling priests to carry out their duties effectively. Citing St. Peter’s words, “you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, Godโs special possession that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9), Bishop Eluke reminded the congregation of their sacred calling.
Urging the lay faithful to appreciate and support their priests, Bishop Eluke said, “Appreciate your priests and offer them encouragement. We ask you to pray for us, for without your prayers the cross of the Priesthood will be too heavy to bear.” He emphasised the need for priests to remain united and work together towards the growth and development of the Diocese.
In his concluding remarks, Bishop Eluke entrusted the priests and laity to the intercession of Mother Mary, the mother of the Church and the mother of priests, underscoring the importance of spiritual guidance and support.
Notably, Bishop Eluke was recently appointed as the Apostolic Administrator of the Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt by Pope Francis, following the resignation of Bishop Camillus Archibong Etokudoh, who reached the retirement age of 75 in August 2024.
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