By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
In a highly inspiring Christmas message delivered at the Christmas Carols of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Abuja, the Secretary General (SG) emphasised that true peace on earth begins with giving glory to God. “If you want peace on earth, you must first give glory to God,” he said, highlighting that ignoring God leads to no lasting peace.
The theme ‘Peace on Earth, Glory to God in the Highest’ was unpacked by Very Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo to mean allowing God to shape choices, conduct, and priorities. “To give glory to God is not lip service… it means honouring God in hearts, homes, leadership, and public life,” he stressed.
Addressing Nigeria’s challenges, on Sunday 12 December at the CSN Chaplaincy, the SG spoke on the pressing issues of insecurity and violence, especially affecting Christian communities. He specifically mentioned the Kontagora Catholic school abduction, expressing hope for the safe return of the 165 children and staff held captive.
The Secretary General lamented that Nigeria waited for external voices to treat the problem of insecurity with seriousness it deserves, emphasising that protecting life is a primary duty of government. “Every Nigerian life matters regardless of whether he/she is a Christian or Muslim,” he said.
Fr. Banjo also highlighted the need for leaders of integrity, compassion, and character, urging Nigerians to stop trading their future for personal gain and instead give glory to God by voting for leaders who fear God and serve the common good.
Despite the hardships facing the nation, the Secretary General encouraged “courageous joy” rooted in faith, citing examples of St Maximilian Kolbe singing hymns while in a concentration camp, and Pope Francis living joyfully despite illness. “This is not shallow happiness; it is courageous joy, born of faith in a God who is always with us,” he said.
The Secretary General extended gratitude to the choristers, parishioners, priests, and staff for making the event special, wishing all a blessed Christmas. The message concluded with a call to rejoice in God’s presence, choosing gratitude over bitterness, and sharing with others, even in difficult times.