By Roseline Idoko
The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) today celebrated Valentine’s Day as one family, beginning with morning prayers followed by a reflection delivered by
Sr. Dr. Cor Jesu Mary Eke (DMMM),
Holy Mass in the afternoon, and a brief get-together marked by the exchange of gifts. The celebration, held at the Secretariat, brought together members of staff in a spirit of unity, faith, and shared joy.
In her presentation, Sr. Dr. Cor Jesu centered her talk on the true meaning of Valentine’s Day, posing the question: What are we really celebrating? She reminded staff that love originates from Christ, emphasizing that “we love because He first loved us.” Drawing from the teaching of St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 13, she reiterated that “love is patient, love is kind; it is not jealous, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” She stressed that Valentine goes beyond roses, red and white colors, and material gifts, noting that the greatest gift is genuine love—expressed in how we speak to, care for, and look out for one another. She encouraged everyone, regardless of vocation—priesthood, religious life, marriage, or singleness—to love freely and wholly without reservation, concluding with the powerful reminder that “a heart without love is dead.”
The Secretary General (SG), Rev. Fr. Banjo Michael, expressed deep appreciation to Sr. Cor Jesu for her insightful presentation and reinforced her message by urging staff to embody love in the faithful and diligent execution of their duties at the Secretariat.
The celebration culminated in a lively get-together featuring the cutting of cake, a beautiful presentation by Miss Doris, exchange of gifts, and refreshments. The event fostered joy, fellowship, and a renewed commitment among staff to live out Christ’s love not only in words but in daily service.
