Corpus Christi celebration: cleric urges Nigerians to embrace prayer, love and unity

By Diana Oluwole

As Catholics across the world marked the Solemnity of Christ the King, also known as Corpus Christi, the Assistant Parish Priest of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Ugborikoko in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, Fr. Stephen Douye, has called on Nigerians to turn to God in fervent prayer for the nation.

The solemnity, one of the major feasts in the Catholic Church, celebrates the Kingship of Jesus Christ over all creation and reaffirms the belief in His real presence in the Holy Eucharist. It is a moment of deep reflection on Christ’s authority, love and sacrifice for humanity.

Speaking during the special Mass, the Priest stressed that Nigeria is in dire need of divine intervention, especially in the face of persistent killings and growing insecurity. He said acknowledging Christ as King over the nation is the first step toward healing and restoration.

According to him, the Kingship of Christ represents love, unity, peace, and justice values which Nigeria must urgently embrace if it is to overcome its challenges.

He urged Nigerians to renew their faith and commit themselves to praying for the country, noting that “we are no longer safe as a people except God watches over us.”

The Cleric also reminded the faithful of the scripture which admonishes Christians to be “gentle as a dove but wise as a serpent,” saying the solemnity calls for deeper reflection on how believers live out their faith in the midst of national difficulties.

He encouraged citizens to use the spirit of the Corpus Christi celebration to seek God’s mercy and guidance, adding that only through collective prayer and genuine love for one another can Nigeria experience true peace and stability.