During the National Celebration of the Jubilee of Hope, Bishop Francis Obafemi Adesina delivered a powerful homily, emphasising the importance of caring for the vulnerable in Nigerian society.
The event, held at Jesus the Saviour International Sanctuary in Elele, brought together thousands of Pilgrims to reflect on the renewal of their faith and reinforce hope in the salvific power of Christ.
Bishop Adesina’s message centered on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” highlighting the need for spiritual renewal and inner conversion. He urged Nigerians to look beyond their struggles and find solace in God’s promises.
According to the bishop, the Jubilee Year is an opportunity for the Church and the nation to renew their commitment to justice, healing, and reconciliation. The bishop stressed the importance of caring for those in need, saying, “Jesus invites you and me to friendship and freedom. He calls us to new life! Jesus is inviting us today to a personal relationship with Him.”
He emphasized that Christian hope is grounded in the certainty of God’s love, noting that “Christian hope does not deceive or disappoint because it is grounded in the certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us from God’s love” (Rom 8:35.37-39). Bishop Adesina called for a spiritual awakening, encouraging Nigerians to seek hope and comfort in their faith. He emphasised the need for justice, healing, and reconciliation in Nigerian society, urging citizens to work towards building a more peaceful and progressive nation.
The Jubilee Year of Hope, inaugurated by Pope Francis on Christmas Eve 2024, aims to inspire hope and renewal among Christians worldwide.
Bishop Adesina’s homily serves as a call to action for Nigerians to embody the values of compassion, empathy, and kindness, particularly towards those who are most vulnerable. As the bishop said, “May the glory of God over our lives and our Land endure forever. Amen!”.