The Catholic Bishop of Bomadi Diocese, Most Rev. Hyacinth Egbebo, MSP, has urged bishops to emulate the example of St. Monica in their role as shepherds and pastors of souls.
In his homily at the Mass of Day 6 of the ongoing Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) plenary meeting, Bishop Egbebo, who was also the Chief Celebrant, reminded his fellow bishops that their utmost priority should be the salvation of souls. He encouraged them to pray for and bring back to the fold those who have strayed, just like St. Monica did with her son.
Bishop Egbebo lamented the decline in genuine faith, citing instances where priests abuse the faith by disrespecting the blessed sacrament, formulating unapproved prayers, and disregarding church sacraments. He appealed to the bishops to address these excesses among their priests.
Reflecting on the day’s readings, Bishop Egbebo warned against hypocrisy, pretence, and falsehood, urging all to speak and stand up for the truth at all times, regardless of who is involved. He commended Catholics in the media practice and other public figures who have courageously defended the truth in our society.
