By Emma Eko, CSN
The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) marked the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with great fervor and devotion. On September 8, 2025, staff from CSN and agencies of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), along with parishioners of St. Gabriel Chaplaincy in Durumi, Abuja, gathered for a special Holy Mass.
Presiding over the Mass, CSN Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo emphasized the importance of emulating the Blessed Virgin Mary’s virtues in daily life. He encouraged the faithful to draw inspiration from Mary’s unwavering “Yes” to God, highlighting her humility, obedience, and faith as guiding principles for Christians.
The preacher also noted that celebrating Mary’s birth serves as a reminder to honour her role as the Mother of the Saviour. He stressed that if Nigerians and people worldwide followed Mary’s example, the world would be a better place. The celebration aimed to foster unity and spiritual renewal among the CSN community, reinforcing devotion to Mary as a guiding light.
The Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary commemorates the birth of Mary, who is revered as the Mother of God and a model of faith. According to tradition, Mary’s birth is seen as a precursor to the birth of Jesus Christ, and her life exemplifies obedience, trust, and acceptance of God’s plan.
