…as CSN Community celebrates the Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday
By PJ Usanga
The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) and agencies of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) marked the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary with great enthusiasm and devotion on Monday, September 9, 2024. This annual tradition has become an integral part of the CSN calendar.
The Deputy Secretary General and Director of Pastoral Affairs, CSN, Rev. Fr. Michael Leke Banjo, explained the significance of the celebration. “Yesterday was the birthday of our blessed mother. Since the feast cannot override the solemnity of the Lord on Sunday, we celebrate today in honor of her. As the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are incorporated into Christ through baptism, making her our own mother also. We hope and pray that her birthday brings significant transformation to our country Nigeria and resolves the many problems surrounding us.”
Head of Internal Audit, CSN, Dr. Godwin Ukel, shared his personal testimony. “I thank God for this opportunity to celebrate our Lady, whose devotion I have embraced since childhood. My life is a testament to her intercession. I have visited her various apparition sites, and I attribute my achievements to her guidance. I encourage all Catholics and Christians to deepen their devotion to her, as she never fails.”
As a major sponsor of the celebration over the years, Dr. Ukel emphasized its permanence in the CSN’s tradition. “The birthday celebration of the Blessed Virgin Mary will continue as long as the secretariat remains.”
