CORRUPTION: ONE STEP FORWARD, A THOUSAND BACKWARDS

By Rev. Fr. Leonard Anetekhai

Celebration of one year calls for a thing of joy, not to compare that of fifty years. An individual is always happy to clock 50, but in a situation when these years are of misery and glory in scarcity even of good leaders, what is the need for celebrations? As a country, come October 1st we shall clock 50 and there is every need to rejoice, but come to think of it, apart from the fact that we have remained one Nigeria for the past years, what are we really celebrating taking a good look at events around us? Fraud, looting of treasury, kidnapping, armed robbery, violent behaviour even among members of our honourable Houses of Assembly, murders, thuggery, nepotism, poverty, hunger, injustice etc.

Before the death of Former President, Umaru Yar'Adua, we understand that the sum of N62 million (sixty two million naira), was budgeted for the country's 50th independence anniversary, though some members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) have it that such money was budgeted, but not for our celebration. Few weeks back, Nigerians were made to understand that the sum of N10 billion has been sent to the National Assembly by the present administration for approval for our political leaders to share for themselves and their unborn children, all in the name of 50 years of independence.

It beats my imagination to believe that the present Federal Executive Council with the presence of “Mrs. Rebranding” could conform to this grave act of sabotage of the fund made to better the lives of the masses. This is a situation that gives way for serious and high level corruption and embezzlement, this is absolute exploitation. In the words of President Barrack Obama in his speech to the Ghanaian Parliament, “No country is going to create wealth if its leaders exploit the economy to enrich themselves…” and as my people will say “Alo aye” forward ever, backward never!

If we take a critical look at the details of the N10 billion independence anniversary expenditure in the supplementary appropriation bill submitted by the President to the National Assembly, we see it contains as very frivolous and extravagant and as purported by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). This act is a sign of insensitivity on the part of our political leadership. It is believed that jamborees as the independence anniversary are fraught with inflated and spurious allocations. This is even more common as elections are by the corner and the ruling PDP as well as many of our political elite often seek for avenues and events to fleece public treasury. By this way, huge contract sums that are never executed or being reviewed, becomes the norm for our lawmakers.

Nigerians, Let us not cry over the N50m allocated to the office of the wife of the President for visits to special homes, orphanages, prisons and selected hospitals in the course of the independence anniversary period. It is often said that if everyone in a village are blind, the man with one eye can easily pass for a king. So what do we expect, she is a First Lady, at least we have seen many of her type even under the guise of Better life for Rural Women and Poverty Alleviation Programmes, May God help us.

Moreso, from the budget, some agencies would receive funds for the anniversary like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, N600m; Ministry of Information and Communications, N1.2bn; Ministry of Women Affairs, N105m; and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, N6.4bn. if these figures are true, what on earth will make any government that cannot give 60% solution to the problems confronting her economy budget N30 million naira for the designing and unveiling of a logo all in the name of 50th anniversary? Just a logo, are we moving forward in the fight against corruption or moving backwards? I am certain that 80% of each of the allocation will end up in private pockets, to help facilitate political campaigns.

In the face of mass unemployment, educational leprosy, mass funerals of dead industries in Nigeria and daily clamour for decent wages by those working hard in this country, It is unwise for us to spend over N10 billion celebrating our independence anniversary. I think our leaders need a psychotherapist test. Yes, 50 years of existence as a politically independent nation ought to naturally require of us as a people some degree of euphoria, but given the popular national obscurity due obviously to our stunted growth in many aspects of our political economy, our leaders should use this 50th independence anniversary as a genuine opportunity for deeper self-examination and commitment to the structural and institutional development of our nation.

Mr. President, it is ungodly to waste our resources, 10 billion can alleviate poverty from our rural areas where Nigerians who you promised to uphold their interest are living. At this time, if we direct our energies and national resources towards entrenching democratic cultures and values in the hearts of our people and in our institutions, it will help to redeem our lost glory and dignity. Take the courage and pain to visit all the Local government areas in Nigeria, beginning from Bayelsa and see if there is any need to hoist our heads high at fifty.

For me, if we must celebrate our fifty years of political independence, we must recreate in the hearts of Nigerians especially the younger generation, the spirit of patriotism. It is not enough to air some good jingles by telling us how to believe in our self and do not destroy the work of our heroes past, when our political leaders cannot sacrifice their time and pleasures for the growth of the nation. Patriotism should begin from the leaders to the led and not the other way round.

Except this is done, we cannot develop or rid this nation of the shackles of underdevelopment. Terrible things have taken place in this country that have in one way or the other devastated our economy and by extension, enriched private pockets as we can recall the huge expenses recorded in 2003 when Nigeria hosted the Commonwealth Heads of government. Nigerians have not witnessed the dividends of that event that gulped billions of tax payers' money. While the government seems prepared to use the opportunity to celebrate themselves and their families abroad and also to enrich the so called elite who of course would handle the contracts at this celebration, the reaction of Nigerians is that the government should prioritize the burning issues facing the nation, instead of pretending that all is well with Nigerians. Again I say, May God help us.

A GREATER VISION OF LIFE

By Rev. Fr. Gregory Ogbenika

It is always important to develop a greater vision about life, because a vision is the foretaste of what to expect, what to do and the result of which enable the realization of set goals and objectives.

This can be blurred by circumstances, conditions and situations around us, if we give way. If a vision must be realized, there is need for greater dynamism, dedication, planning and hard work which can foster growth and progress. There are a lot of circumstances around us that can endanger and block our determination to succeed, but we must not give up in the face of these myriads of mountains because people who consider themselves victims of their own circumstances, will always remain victims unless they develop a greater vision for their lives. We must always move with the tide of the time and realities, we must never give up, we must never look back, we must move on to strike the gold of life for a sparkle of light which brings hope, joy and redemption to the inner being of our souls.

This pave way for the deep consciousness of that future which is built on the mountain top where the radiance of innuendos do not pose a threat to the realization of our vision. Move on folks, for the deliberation on life attainment has just begun. Move on for the journey toward a brighter future has just begun. Move on for the realization of our dreams are not too far from where we are at the moment. Move on for the later part of today may turn out to be a surge in the wheel of progress. Move on for our tomorrow draws from the search and determination of yesterday. Move on for the sun will shine and the rain will fall on the steps we take today which will bring about the bumper harvest in the journey of life. Take a step with a leap of faith into the wilderness of life in order to hear the voice of the one who cares for us. Open your inner being to the promptings of the divine spark that serves as a catalyst to the opening of the corridors of light. A light that is unquenchable if followed to its final destination. Arriving at this final stop is determined by the determination of those who do not lose focus in their quest for meaning to life. A life that has a variance to its understanding depending on the perspective of consideration. For the ungodly, it has no meaning or direction. It is a plunge into the abyss of infinity without any hope of a future. But for those of us who are believers, a true vision of life begins with the originator of all creation. It is sustained through His power and might with His almighty positioning above all.

It comes to an end with a fulfilling posture of accomplishment that leads to inner joy that never ends.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST IN OUR LIFE AS CHRISTIANS?

By Rev. Fr. Stan William Ede

According to the Penny Catechism, the “Holy Eucharist”, which is one of the seven sacraments, “is the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, together with his Soul and Divinity, under the appearances of bread and wine”. The Holy Eucharist is the central Christian sacrament and is “the source and summit of the Christian life”.

The word, Eucharist is gotten from the Greek Eucharistein which means “Thanksgiving” and “Blessing”. In the first multiplication of loaves, Jesus pronounces a “blessing” (Matt. 14:19) and a thanksgiving (Jn. 6:11,23). In the second multiplication, Jesus pronounces “thanksgiving” over the bread and “blessing” over the fish (Mk. 8:6-7).

Correspondingly, at the Last Supper, Jesus pronounces “blessing” over the bread (Matt. 26:26; cf. Lk. 24:30) and “thanksgiving” over the cup of wine (Matt. 26:27). Paul, in any case, speaks of them inversely with the “thanksgiving” over the bread (1 Cor. 11:24) and the “blessing” over the cup (1 Cor. 10:16).

In fact, it is the word Eucharist that has prevailed to designate the ACT which Jesus, the Bread of Life, instituted on the eve of His death, to enable us partake directly in the events of his death and resurrection. This term expresses praise for the wonders of God and thanks for the good which humankind has drawn from them. The Eucharist then is both our expression of thanks to God and opening up ourselves to receive more of his superabundant blessings.

Participation in the Holy Eucharist bears a lot of gifts and benefits for us. And as the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, the principal effect or fruit of receiving the Holy Eucharist or participating in the Eucharistic mystery is an intimate union with Jesus Christ (cf. C.C.C. 1391). That is to say, the Eucharist increases our union with Christ who says: “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him” (Jn. 6:56).

The Eucharist also delivers us from sin, As a matter of fact, the body of Christ which we receive in Holy Communion is “given up for us”, and the blood we drink is “shed for the forgiveness of sins”. For this reason, the Eucharist cannot unite us to Christ without at the same time cleansing us from past sins and preserving us from future sins. Wonderfully too, the Eucharist strengthens our charity, renews us in our spiritual life, and makes the Church.

a.) The Eucharist: Pledge of Eternal Life

White bread, cake bread, wheat bread, sliced bread, native bread, brown bread and fresh toast! Perhaps no food comes in as many varieties as bread, known as the staff of life. Because bread is so basic to our life, God was wise to nourish us with divine life in the form of bread, the Eucharist.

Jesus proclaims this marvel where he says, “I am the bread of life….I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world” (John 6:48, 51). This was not just a figure of speech. Jesus meant the words literally. At the Last Supper the night before he died, he held bread in his hands and said to his friends, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:24). Ever since then Christians have been celebrating the breaking of the bread. We come together to share a meal and be fed with the bread and wine that is Jesus. The Eucharist is a gift of Jesus' love through which we remember his death and resurrection and share in them.

From the Upper Room in Jerusalem, from the Last Supper, in a certain sense, the Eucharist writes the history of human hearts and of human communities. Let us reflect on all those who, being nourished on the Body and Blood of the Lord, have lived and died with noble faith, bearing in themselves, because of the Eucharist, the pledge of eternal life. Let us think of so many generations of people, even in our country and diocese who have dedicated their lives to the Eucharist and died for it. All of us now living and partaking in the Eucharistic meal form a spiritual union with all the generations who have done God's will throughout the ages and now share his glory above, and we must be ever dedicated to worshipping God in spirit and in truth, so that in sharing the life of Jesus, the bread of life, the promise of eternal life will be fulfilled in us.

b.) The Eucharist: The Truth of Christ

And so, it becomes all the more urgent to steep ourselves in the truth that comes from Christ “who is the way, the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6), and in the strength that he himself offers us through his Spirit. It is especially in the Eucharist that the power and the love of the Lord are given to us.

The Sacrifice of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ offered up for us is an act of supreme love on the part of the Savior. It is his great victory over sin and death - a victory that he communicates to us. The Eucharist is a promise of eternal life, since Jesus himself tells us: “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day” (Jn 6:54).

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is meant to be the festive celebration of our salvation. In the Mass we give thanks and praise to God our Father for having given us Redemption through the precious blood of Jesus Christ. The Eucharist is also the center of the Church's unity as well as her greatest treasure. In the words of the Second Vatican Council, the Eucharist contains “the Church's entire spiritual wealth” (Presbyterorum Ordinis, 5).

c.) The Eucharist: Source of Christian Spirit

Yes, it is from the Eucharist that all of us receive the grace and strength for daily living - to live real Christian lives, in the joy of knowing that God loves us, that Christ died for us, and that the Holy Spirit lives in us.

Our full participation in the Eucharist is the real source of the Christian spirit that we wish to feel in our personal lives and in all aspects of society. Whether we serve in politics, in the economic, cultural, social or scientific field - no matter what our occupation is - the Eucharist is a challenge to our daily lives.

There must always be consistency between what we believe and what we do. We cannot live on the glories of our past Christian history. Our union with Christ in the Eucharist must be expressed in the truth of our lives today - in our actions, in our behavior, in our life-style, and in our relationships with others. For each one of us the Eucharist is a call to ever greater effort, so that we may live as true followers of Jesus: truthful in our speech, generous in our deeds, concerned, respectful of the dignity and rights of all persons, whatever their rank or income, self-sacrificing, fair and just, kind, considerate, compassionate and self-controlled, looking to the well-being of our families, our young people, our country, Africa and the world.

The truth of our union with Jesus Christ in the Eucharist is tested by whether or not we really love our fellow men and women; it is tested by how we treat others; especially our families, husbands and wives, children and parents, brothers and sisters. It is tested by whether or not we try to be reconciled with our enemies, on whether or not we forgive those who hurt us or offend us. It is tested by whether we practice in life what our faith teaches us. We must always remember what Jesus said: "You are my friends if you do what I command you" (Jn 15:14).

d.) The Eucharist: Call to Conversion

The Eucharist is also a great call to conversion. We know that it is an invitation to the Banquet; that, by nourishing ourselves on the Eucharist, we receive in it the Body and Blood of Christ, under the appearances of bread and wine. Precisely because of this invitation, the Eucharist is and remains the call to conversion. If we receive it as such a call, such an invitation, it brings forth in us its proper fruits. It transforms our lives. It makes us a 'new man', a 'new creature' (cf. Gal 6:15; Eph 2:15; 2 Cor. 5:17). It helps us not to be "overcome by evil, but to overcome evil by good" (cf. Rom 12:21). The Eucharist helps love to triumph in us - love over hatred, zeal over indifference.

The call to conversion in the Eucharist links the Eucharist with that other great Sacrament of God's love, which is Penance. Every time that we receive the Sacrament of Penance or Reconciliation, we receive the forgiveness of Christ, and we know that this forgiveness comes to us through the merits of his death-the very death that we celebrate in the Eucharist. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we are all invited to meet Christ personally in this way, and to do so frequently.

This encounter with Jesus is so very important that Pope John Paul II wrote in his first Encyclical Letter these words: “In faithfully observing the centuries-old practice of the Sacrament of Penance - the practice of individual confession with a personal act of sorrow and the intention to amend and make satisfaction - the Church is therefore defending the human soul's individual right: man's right to a more personal encounter with the crucified forgiving Christ, with Christ saying, through the minister of the sacrament of Reconciliation: 'Your sins are forgiven'; 'Go, and do not sin again'. Because of Christ's love and mercy there is no sin that is too great to be forgiven; there is no sinner who will be rejected. Every person who repents will be received by Jesus Christ with forgiveness and immense love.

And if today there is someone who is still hesitating to participate in penance and the Holy Eucharist for one reason or another, please remember this: the person who knows how to acknowledge the truth of guilt, and asks Christ for forgiveness, enhances his own human dignity and manifests spiritual greatness.

Christians ought therefore to continue to hold this Sacrament of Penance in special honour, forever. Let all of us remember the words of Pius XII in regard to frequent Confession: “Not without the inspiration of the Holy Spirit was this practice introduced into the Church”. Note therefore that the call to conversion and repentance comes from Christ, and always leads us back to Christ in the Eucharist.

e.) Exercises of Devotion

It is pertinent at this point to recall an important truth affirmed by the Second Vatican Council, namely that: “The spiritual life, nevertheless, is not confined to participation in the liturgy” (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 12). Christians must therefore engage in the other exercises of devotion that have been lovingly preserved for centuries, especially those in regard to the Blessed Sacrament. These acts of piety honor God and are useful for our Christian lives; they give joy to our hearts, and help us to appreciate more the liturgical worship of the Church.

f.) Jesus' Real Presence

Having said this much, it is also my joy to reaffirm the wonderful teaching of the Catholic Church regarding Christ's consoling presence in the Blessed Sacrament: his real presence in the fullest sense: the substantial presence by which the whole and complete Christ, God and man, is present. The Eucharist, in the Mass and outside of the Mass, is the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, and is therefore deserving of the worship that is given to the living God, and to him alone

For this reason therefore, note that every act of reverence, every genuflection that we make before the Blessed Sacrament, is important because it is an act of faith in Christ, an act of love for Christ. And every sign of the Cross and gesture of respect made each time we pass by church is also an act of faith.

Subsequently on TRUTHLINE, we shall undertake a comprehensive exposé of the doctrine of the “Real presence of Christ” in the Holy Eucharist, which also includes the “Miracle and Reality of Transubstantiation”.

THE LORD'S PRAYER; A DISCIPLE'S PRAYER (I)

By Rev. Fr. Anselm Jimoh

Every disciple is expected to be a great and impressive sample of is master. We are expected to be great disciples who are positioned to step where the Lord has stepped and follow the Lord with a lot more commitment and trust. It is on this note I propose to share with you a reflection on the popular “Our Father” or the Lord's Prayer. This is a prayer that Jesus himself taught his disciples as a pattern of prayer. It is a prayer so rich in content, meaning and symbolism. It contains the expectations of the Lord from his disciples and the characteristic features of a true disciple of Christ. As some authors maintained, it was one of the principal sources which Jesus Christ used to communicate his message. (McBrien, 1994:458).

In the gospel of St. Matthew, 6:5, Jesus counseled his disciples on prayer and in verse 9 told them; “this, then, is how you should pray…” he went ahead to give them what we today refer to as the Lord's prayer or the “Our Father”. In Luke 11:2, Christ told his disciples, “… when you pray, say this…” This was in response to the request of one of his disciples that he should teach them how to pray. There seems to be a general agreement among scripture scholars that the Lucan version is closer to the actual prayer Jesus taught his disciples. Anyway, the point I want to make here is that it is scripturally clear that the Lord's Prayer is a disciple's prayer; “a prayer which only one who is committed to Jesus Christ can take upon his lips with any meaning”. (Barclay, 1975:198).

This last claim is contrary to the thinking that the Lord's Prayer is a child's prayer or a family prayer except we see the family within the context of 'the family of the Church'. The Lord's prayer or “Our Father” is specifically and definitely a prayer that attains its full meaning and import in the lips of a disciple, because only a true disciple can really appreciate what it states. Until one enters into full discipleship with Christ, one cannot properly pray this prayer. This is however not what we see and hear every day. The Lord's Prayer, to say the least, is said, not even prayed by all, rushed over and communized. Its meaning and implication are lost. For this very reason, it is necessary and good that we remind ourselves the true meaning of this prayer so that when next we utter the words of this great and beautiful prayer, we enter into a deeper communion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, bringing our entire being in its past, present and future to the Godhead.

The Lord's Prayer is easily divided into two parts. The first part, which contains three petitions, is dedicated to God, while the second part, which also contains three petitions, is about us in our relationship with God and one another. In all, the Lord's Prayer contains six petitions. Thus, it is a prayer that from the beginning priorizes the Christian character. It is primly, vertically directed to God and then secondarily, horizontally directed to us and our neighbours.

It begins with; “Our Father, who art in heaven; hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” This first part gives to God His proper place in the life of every true disciple of Christ. It acknowledges God as taking number one position in the life of a true disciple before any other thing. “It is only when God is given His rightful place that all other things take their rightful place.” (Barclay, 1991:81).

The opening phrase of the prayer; “Our Father” summarizes the relationship between the one praying (the disciple) and the one prayed to (God). When Jesus himself prayed in Mk 14:36, he said; “Abba, all things are possible for you; take this cup away from me. Yet not what I want, but what you want.” In Rom.8:15 and Gal.4:6, Paul tells us we too can do the same, e.g. call God “Abba.” According to Paul, “And because you are sons, God has sent into your hearts the Spirit of His son which cries out 'Abba' that is Father.” (Gal.4:6). Thus, in this prayer, Christ recommends that we call God “Our Father.” “Abba” is the Jewish word for Father and it is quite common to hear the little Jewish boy or girl running around the house shouting “Abba” as he/she seeks the attention of the father. It would be ordinarily translated as “daddy” today in English language. There is a familiarity and closeness associated with the use of this term. So to call God “Our Father” is to begin a communication with one who is close to us, and not some remote, far away, and strange deity.

God is not just “Our Father”, He is “Our Father who art in Heaven.” It means besides being close and familiar with us, God is the holy and mighty one; full of majesty and power. For us, it is an expression of an implicit trust in a Father who has the power to do whatever He wants and the majesty or authority to do it. It is one thing to have the power to do something and another to have the majesty to do it. Majesty here includes the goodwill, the integrity and the authority to do it.

Immediately following the acknowledgement of the Fatherhood of God is the first petition that recognizes God in His uniqueness; “Hallowed be thy name.” The word “hallowed” is from the Greek verb “hagiazesthai” which is connected with the Greek adjective “hagios.” The adjective “hagios” is often translated as “holy” but it's real and basic meaning is “different” or “separate.” A person who is “hagios” is a person who is separate from other people on the basis of his/her difference from the others. Applied to God, it means, God's name should be treated differently from other names as it is separated from other names; it should be given a unique position. “Hallowed be thy name” means to treat the name of God different from other names, separate it from other names, and give it a unique place among other names.

It is important to note that the Hebrew understanding of 'name' goes beyond the noun that designates someone, e.g. John, Andrew, Peter, etc., it actually implies the nature, character, and personality of the one such noun designates, in so far as it is revealed to us. This explains why Hebrew families and indeed, African families would not just give a child a name without first making preliminary investigations as to what they expect the baby to grow into. We see this playing itself out in the naming of John the Baptist in Luke 1:59-66. It is also within this context that we understand the Psalmist in Ps.9:10 saying, “Those who know thy name put their trust in thee.” And again “Some boast of chariots and some of horses, but we boast of the name of the Lord our God.” (Ps.20:7).

If following this etymology, we put “hagiazesthai” as “different” with the Hebrew understanding of a name together, it means, when we pray, “Hallowed be thy name” what we say is “Enable us to give thee the unique place which thy nature and character deserve and demand.” (Barclay, 1975:206). Thus, “Hallowed be thy name” means to treat God as different from everyone else; to put Him in a unique place in our lives and reverence Him. To reverence means to obey, please and allow the one reverenced control our lives. It is an obvious truth that we cannot reverence someone we do not know to exist. So to reverence God would mean we already believe He exists and that we understand the nature of His character and personality enough to command our respect for Him. What is this nature of God that we understand? That He is just, holy, and loving.

To confirm the interpretation of the last petition, the second and third petitions say “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” I put these petitions together, even though they are separate because they express the same fact and are variations of the same desire. To pray for the coming of God's kingdom is to pray to do the will of God. This is because in the kingdom of God, only His will is done, so if His kingdom is to be established here on earth, it would mean His will is to be done on earth.

The entire New Testament is about the coming of the kingdom of God. The gospel of Mk 1:14 records that the first appearance of Christ as a public preacher was all about preaching the good news of God's kingdom. In Lk.4:43 and Mk 1:38, Jesus specifically declared that he has come to preach the good news of God's kingdom. “But he said, 'I have to go to other towns to announce the good news of the kingdom of God. That is what I was sent to do.” (Lk.4:43).

It will be interesting and very tempting to attempt an understanding of the kingdom of God here, but it will be way too elaborate for our purpose, so suffice to just note that “the kingdom of God is a society upon earth where God's will is as perfectly done as it is heaven.” (Barclay, 1975:211). To be a member of God's kingdom is to obey the rules and abide by the regulations of His kingdom. A Christian who truly desires and makes honest efforts to follow the Lord is a disciple who never again does what he/she likes. He/she would rather do what God likes. A perfect example of this is given in the life of Paul. When he encountered Jesus Christ, his first question was, “What shall I do Lord?” (Acts 22:10).

A true disciple is one who seeks the will of God in all things and all situations and circumstances of life. Unfortunately, however, what we observe today are Christians who seek that God should change His will and do their will. More often than not, we pray that, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be changed on earth as we want it.” Many so called Christians of today are not disposed to do the will of God. A lot of the prayers we hear in these days are phrased to blackmail God; holding Him to His promises, to do for us what we want. We want God to fulfill His promises in our lives but we are not ready to follow the path that makes us worthy or beneficiaries of such promises.

MARRIAGE

By Bishop G. G. Dunia (Bishop Catholic Diocese of Auchi)

In the Catholic Church, it is simple understood that a marriage is the matrimonial covenant by which a capable person (who must be a man) and another capable person (who must be a woman) establish between themselves a partnership of their whole life, till death separates them. The fundamental purpose of the sacrament of marriage is twofold: by nature marriage is ordered to the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of children (cf canon 1055 & 1).

Although, the institution of marriage predated the coming of Christ on earth, it has been raised by Jesus Christ to the dignity of a sacrament between two baptised man and woman (cf cannon 1055 & 1).

The sacrament of marriage is also marked by certain unique attributes. These attributes are:

(a) Total and perpetual fidelity or unity.

(b) Indissolubility, all things being equal till death. This means that once the marital or matrimonial covenant is validly and licitly established between a baptised man and a baptised woman, the two (spouses) are obliged to remain totally faithful to each other for life until death comes to do them part.

The consent of the two parties which is legitimately manifested between the man and the woman who are qualified by law is that, which makes a marriage; no other human power outside the two parties involved can supply this consent (cf. cannon 1057 & 1).

Matrimonial consent is an act of the will by which a man and a woman who are legally and psychologically qualified also by an irrevocable covenant mutually give and accept each other for the purpose of establishing a marriage for life (cf. 1057 & 2).

Once matrimonial consent is validly and licitly given, accepted by both parties and consummated by sexual intercourse, it cannot be dissolved by any power on earth.

For a valid reception of the sacrament of marriage, it is necessary that both parties (the man and the woman) are free from impediment. If impediment exists, it must either be removed, where and when it is possible, or dispensed if it is that which can be dispensed from, since it is not all impediments that can be dispensed from.

Secondly, the spouses must have the physical capacity for marriage. That is the parties must be a man and a woman who have the ability to complete the procreative sexual act. This is important because marriage is ordered, apart from the good of the spouses, to the procreation and education of the offspring. Also, since the sexual act is a deep manifestation of conjugal love, it is essential to t he whole marital relationship.

Thirdly, the spouses must possess mental/psychological capacity for fulfilling the fundamental marital obligations as well as moral capacity for living out the demands of marriage in accordance with the prescription of the Church.

Fourthly and very importantly, the spouses must express their consent in an atmosphere of total freedom and without being mutilated, as it were, by one impediment or the other.

Fifthly, matrimonial consent must be expressed by all Catholic parties involved in marriage, in accordance with canonical form. This means that the two parties, man and woman, must declare their consent before a sacred minister and two witnesses.

AYOGWIRI HOSTS DIOCESAN LAITY COUNCIL

St. Matthew Parish Ayogwiri, has recently played host to the 75th monthly rotational diocesan laity council meeting, held at the Church premises.

Shortly after the meeting was declared open, the diocesan laity secretary Mr Chris Osigwe, introduced delegates from various parishes and mass centres to the parish administrator of St. Matthew's parish, Rev. Fr. John Awaebe.

In his speech, Mr George Umoru, the diocesan laity chairman, told the parish administrator that the primary purpose of their visit was to solicit for his co-operation and support with the laity so that there can be development in the parish. He said that he strongly believes that with the co-operation of the priest and the laity, the diocese will develop faster.

In response, the parish administrator Rev. Fr. John Awaebe joyfully welcomed all the delegates to the parish and stressed that to have a complete liturgy, the priest and the laity must work together as members of one family in the Lord's Vineyard. Also, he pointed out that he always endeavour to carry his laity along in order to achieve success.

Giving the welcome address, the host chairman Mr Thomas Igiere, said that it is an honour and privilege to welcome the delegates to the parish on behalf of his parish priest Rev. Fr. John Awaebe and the entire parishioners of the Church.

Continuing, he stated that the parish was carved out from Holy Rosary parish Uzairue and it comprises of Ayogwiri (main station) Apana, Irekpai and Ugbenor, while noting that the canonical erection of the parish took place on June 15th, 2008 by His lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel G. Dunia.

Speaking on development at the parish, Mr Igiere stressed that the Church has witnessed immense development at both main station and outstations and that presently at the main station, Ayogwiri, the parish administrator has completed the Church administrative office attached to the main Church building and that the construction of seven classrooms and staff offices for St. Matthew's Nursery and Primary School, is at its foundation level, while pointing out that the school is already functioning in a rented building.

Speaking further, he said that work is already going on at St. Andrew Apana, where a priest house has been erected, while a new Church building is in progress at St. Jerome Irekpai, where work on the Sacristy and a new Church building are in progress.

Also at the meeting, Rev. Fr. Mark Akhibi the diocesan laity chaplain, welcomed all the delegates to the meeting and expressed his profound appreciation to the diocesan laity executive, parishes and mass centres on the successful hosting of the National laity executive at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, Jattu on 21 23rd May 2010 and prayed God to reward all of them for their generous contribution, co-operation and support toward the successful hosting.

INTERVIEW WITH THE RECTOR, AUCHI POLYTECHNIC, AUCHI

Dr. (Mrs) P. O. Idogho On Her Two Years In Office.

THE PROMISE: Please can we get to know you better? Give us a brief history about yourself and life when growing up:

RECTOR : I was born in Kaduna and started my Primary education in Damaturu in the North. I had my secondary education at St. Angelas Grammar School Uzairue. I later obtained my National and Higher National Diploma in the Auchi Polytechnic. I obtained the post graduate diploma in education and a Masters degree in the University of Benin. I capped my degrees with a doctorate at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

Growing up was ok. I grew up in friendly neighbourhoods, played with friends and mates as any normal child would do.

THE PROMISE: You recently celebrated two years in office. How is the journey so far and also in our last interview with you on assumption of office, you did promise to restore the “lost glory” of the Federal Polytechnic Auchi. How have you been able to achieve this?

RECTOR: On assumption of office, it was clear in my mind what I wanted to do. The Polytechnic had clear challenges which had to be confronted if it must continue to enjoy its primacy of place. There were infrastructural challenges; there was the need to improve on our quality of staff especially in the area of ICT compliance; there was also the need to upgrade facilities and ensure accreditation of our programmes. Then, of course, there was the problem of congestion of the central academic area.

We have confronted these problems head on and today we have made progress in decongesting the central academic area by developing our campus II. To address infrastructural challenge we built four blocks of classrooms housing a total of twenty lecture halls. These were commissioned last month. We have moved some departments in the School of Business Studies to the new campus.

On staff training, we have encouraged and even now sponsor, through scholarship, our staff to go for higher degrees locally and overseas. Overseas training for staff last happened in this Polytechnic about twenty-five years ago. Presently, four of my staff are pursuing post graduate degrees abroad; thirty are in Nigeria. We are also processing papers for others to go later this year or early next year. Twenty of my staff have also gone for various overseas conferences.

In the area of ICT development, a total of 750 members of staff were trained in my first one year and we facilitated ownership of 500 lap tops. To further encourage staff, we pay registration and conference fees for them on attendance of conferences/seminars or workshop; we also now pay arrears to promoted staff. This has not happened in the past twenty years. I grew from the ranks myself and I can't remember earning arrears of promotion! In 2009, we trained 216 staff in this various professional callings. This year we have so far trained, 56.

To enhance the aesthetics of the school we have built the east and the west end gates of the Polytechnic and extended the perimeter fence considerably to provide some measure of security. We upgraded the radio network to enhance security operations on campus.

THE PROMISE: As a woman occupying an office referred to as “a prerogative of men”, how do you cope in a man's world. Have you had problems of gender discrimination?

RECTOR: Is there really a world for men? I have been able to cope through proper planning. They say if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. In the Polytechnic we have a plan to succeed. My staff are dedicated and committed. So we plan and we execute and the result has been good.

I have not had gender problem. In the Polytechnic progress is based on criteria of hardwork, qualification, experience and character. I have been a two term Head of Department, and a Dean before becoming Rector. There are also women in the Polytechnic holding high and sensitive positions.

THE PROMISE: Your record of achievement includes the development of staff through training both locally and internationally. How have you been able to fund it?

RECTOR: At the beginning, we prioritized our objectives and set aside funds which we prudently manage.

THE PROMISE: Since assumption of office, the issue of cult activities has died down in the institution. Can you share with us the key to your success in this area?

RECTOR: It is true that cult related activities has reduced. That is not to say that we should rest on our oars. What we have tried to do is to reorientate the students.

We provide training opportunities for newly elected union executives and representatives. We take them through basic law, due process, channels of communication and the processes of dialogue, negotiation and conciliation. This has improved their ability for constructive engagement. We also offer opportunities to students to attend national and international conferences like the Nigeria Model United Nations Conference in Abuja and the All Africa Students Union conference in London. When they return, we publicly honour them and show them as examples of what we want others to be. This has had the effect of rethinking on the part of students. We will never present arsonists and murderers as models; we will never hold forth students who maim others as examples.

In addition, our screening processes through post JAMB, enables us to assess and interact with our prospective students. This has ensured that we no longer admit high scoring candidates who on admission cannot cope with the demands of academic work and resort to harassment and intimidation on campus.

Besides, we have a good intelligence network and we now impose rapid and stiff sanctions on students who cause breach of the peace on campus after due processes of investigation and appearance before the students disciplinary committee.

Yes, we still have pockets of breaches in neighbouring communities, but the vigilante groups and the police have been competent and helpful.

THE PROMISE: What were your challenges while climbing up the ladder of success? And since your office is very tasking and demands a lot of your time. How are you able to combine your home front with your job?

RECTOR: Well for a woman, you have to meet the demands of work and home. I have to take care of my children, do domestic chores, go to the market etc. But with planning, I had time to cope. My husband has been particularly helpful and supportive.

THE PROMISE: You have received awards of recognition from various groups in the Catholic Church. Can you tell us some of your contributions to the Church that singled you out for the honours?

RECTOR: My contribution to the various church organizations is for others to assess and if they give me awards, the secret is just that I dedicate and apply myself to achieve goals set for any of the societies or organizations to which I belong and I am called to serve.

THE PROMISE: As a practicing Catholic, how do you bring your faith to bear in your job?

RECTOR: The church teaches us to have faith in God. I do. I treat all my staff fairly, equally and I uphold justice. I help were I can, advice were necessary and I bear no grudge against anybody.

THE PROMISE: How have you been able to inspire women to aspire to greater heights irrespective of their sex?

RECTOR: Through example and comportment. I encourage women to acquire higher education, improve skills and focus on their objectives.

THE PROMISE: What is your advice to youths seeing that you are in the business of building and shaping young lives?

RECTOR: Young men and women should focus on what they wish to achieve that will make them responsible players in the society. They should shun vices, shun anti-social behaviour and embrace hard work.

They should watch the company they keep and they should learn to confide in their parents and their religious leaders. They should discuss their problems and their aspirations with them and heed the advice they give.

THE PROMISE: Is there any negative reaction(s) from people that as a public figure, you will like to address.

RECTOR: Public figures are generally subject to abuses, tales and gossips. That is neither here nor there. I try to be fair to all, just to all and I do not deliberately go out to work hardship on anybody. Whatever opinion anybody has thereafter, is his/her's because he or she is entitled to hold an opinion.

THE PROMISE: What do you wish to be remembered for?

RECTOR: I came and tried to make a difference by making the Polytechnic better than I met it.

DIOCESAN CHARISMATIC HOLDS PENTECOST WEEKEND

Members of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Nigeria (CCRN) in Auchi Diocese, have held their annual Pentecost weekend celebration at Sabongida-Ora. The occasion which is used to commemorate the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles, was tagged “Go then and make disciples of all Nations.”

Welcoming participants to the parish, the host CCRN President Brother Obiwuru Remigus, thanked God for the safe arrival of faithful who have come to worship, praise and receive from God.

While assuring the gathering of brethren that with God all things are possible and that there is solution to all problems no matter their magnitude, Brother Obiwuru prayed that their waiting on the Lord during the event would be a blessing and a turning point in their Christian life.

Also in his welcome address, the diocesan Catholic Charismatic chaplain Rev. Fr. Godrick Shab, stressed that God has brought all of them together once again from various parishes, zones and prayer groups to renew their faith, while urging them to be always listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, have faith in God's saving power and endeavour to live righteous lives, so that their waiting on the Lord will not be in vain.

During the programme, the diocesan charismatic president Brother Chris Afehomo, called on the faithful to shun materialism at all cost which he said has led to the destruction as well as spiritual death of many faithful who allowed themselves to be caught up in its deadly web.

Speaking on the spate of kidnapping and abduction in the country, Brother Afehomo lamented that it has become a lucrative venture for people who have sold their souls to the devil and charged Christians irrespective of their denominations to join hands together and curb the menace, stressing that Christ has given them the mandate to take dominion over all and they can do all things through Christ.

He further admonished the participants that the anointing they received during the Pentecost weekend celebration was not for them to break away from the Church to establish theirs, but rather, it should be used for evangelization to bring those in the grip of darkness to the light of Christ in the Catholic faith.

Activities featured at the occasion included lectures delivered by, Rev. Fr. James Anelu, Brother Akota and Rev. Fr. (Prof.) John Onimawho. Also, there was exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, workshops and candle light procession around the town of Sabongida-Ora.

DIOCESAN CHARISMATIC HOLDS PENTECOST WEEKEND

Members of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Nigeria (CCRN) in Auchi Diocese, have held their annual Pentecost weekend celebration at Sabongida-Ora. The occasion which is used to commemorate the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles, was tagged “Go then and make disciples of all Nations.”

Welcoming participants to the parish, the host CCRN President Brother Obiwuru Remigus, thanked God for the safe arrival of faithful who have come to worship, praise and receive from God.

While assuring the gathering of brethren that with God all things are possible and that there is solution to all problems no matter their magnitude, Brother Obiwuru prayed that their waiting on the Lord during the event would be a blessing and a turning point in their Christian life.

Also in his welcome address, the diocesan Catholic Charismatic chaplain Rev. Fr. Godrick Shab, stressed that God has brought all of them together once again from various parishes, zones and prayer groups to renew their faith, while urging them to be always listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, have faith in God's saving power and endeavour to live righteous lives, so that their waiting on the Lord will not be in vain.

During the programme, the diocesan charismatic president Brother Chris Afehomo, called on the faithful to shun materialism at all cost which he said has led to the destruction as well as spiritual death of many faithful who allowed themselves to be caught up in its deadly web.

Speaking on the spate of kidnapping and abduction in the country, Brother Afehomo lamented that it has become a lucrative venture for people who have sold their souls to the devil and charged Christians irrespective of their denominations to join hands together and curb the menace, stressing that Christ has given them the mandate to take dominion over all and they can do all things through Christ.

He further admonished the participants that the anointing they received during the Pentecost weekend celebration was not for them to break away from the Church to establish theirs, but rather, it should be used for evangelization to bring those in the grip of darkness to the light of Christ in the Catholic faith.

Activities featured at the occasion included lectures delivered by, Rev. Fr. James Anelu, Brother Akota and Rev. Fr. (Prof.) John Onimawho. Also, there was exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, workshops and candle light procession around the town of Sabongida-Ora.

BISHOP DUNIA HONOURED AT BOOK LANUCH

The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel G. Dunia, was honoured recently at the book lunch of his biography titled “Dunia: The Bishop of The Ages,” by Barrs Awaliene Shaka and Amune Samuel, at the new auditorium, Federal Polytechnic Auchi, recently.

In his key note address, Mr Amune stressed that the dream of the book was born two years ago to honour the Bishop for his contributions to humanity, but noted that it was not easy, as finance was one of their major constraints. More, he stated that the book is not restricted to religious or Catholic circle, but it also cuts across all strata of the society.

Thereafter, the citation of the honouree was given by Mr Shaka Awaliene, who gave a detailed account of the Bishop's life history, from his birth to his present status as the Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Auchi.

Giving his speech, the Chairman of the occasion Chief (Barr) Mike Ozekhome, described Bishop Dunia as an icon, a true man of God who is very passionate and dedicated not only to the spiritual upliftment of his people, but also to the development and provision of good things of life for his people.

Responding to the honour done him, Bishop Dunia said that when the authors told him about their intention to write about him, he noted that he was skeptical about it and thought that it was not going to workout, hence he told them to allow him die before publishing a book about him.

More, Bishop Dunia thanked the authors for a job well done and being able to mobilize a large number of dignitaries to the occasion.

Further, the Chief Shepherd promised to continue to give his best to the glory of God and the service of mankind, while attributing the success of the occasion to the lay faithful, pointing out that without them, nothing would have been achieved.

Continuing, the prelate praised the effort of Chief (Barr) Mike Ozekhome, whom he described as a patriot, noting that his love for the diocese has always propelled him to be involved in all activities of the Church.

In addition, the Bishop Showered econium on the Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for his effective, purposeful and dynamic style of leadership which has given the people of the state a new lease of life.

Dignitaries at the occasion included the deputy governor of Edo State Comrade Pius Odubu, Hon Philip Shaibu, Sir Oseni Elamah, Prof Eric Omogbai, Sir J.S. Emoabino, Chief Francis Alimikhena KSM, Prof U.J. Ekhatua, Dean Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin and host of others.

POPE BENEDICT ENDS YEAR OF THE PRIEST

……. Says “the Priesthood Is Not Simply Office, But Sacrament”

Chioma Agboh

The Holy Father Pope Benedict the XVI has officially declared the end of the year of the priest with a Holy Mass on the feast of the Sacred Heart and asserted that the priesthood is not simply office, but sacrament.

Addressing faithful, Pope Benedict stated that the year of the priests which was celebrates on the one hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the death of the holy Cure of Ars, the model of priestly ministry, has guided them to a renewed appreciation of the grandeur and beauty of the priestly ministry, which is not mere an office holder, but one which does something no human being can do of his own power.

Also, His holiness asserted that God makes use of us poor men in order to be, through us, present to all men and women and to act on their behalf. This audacity of God who entrust himself to human beings- who, conscious of our weakness, nonetheless considers men capable of acting and being present in His stead this audacity of God is the true grandeur concealed in the word “priesthood”. More, he stressed that God thinks that men are capable and calls them to His service to bind Himself to them and to demonstrate to young people that the vocation does exist and God is waiting for them to say “yes”.

Continuing, the Holy Father stressed that while the Church begs God for workers and He in turn knocks at the hearts of people who He considers are to do what He considers them able to do, the Pope pointed out that the enemy is not happy and therefore, in the year of the priests, the sins of priests particularly the abuse of the little ones came to light. He further stated that while the Church begs for forgiveness from God and those involved, the Pope promised that they will do everything possible to ensure that such abuse will never occur.

In addition, Pope Benedict asserted that had the year for the priests been a glorification of individual human performance, it would have been ruined by the events. However, priests grew in gratitude for God's gift, which even anew even amid human weakness, makes God's love present in the world and called on all to consider all that happened as “a summons to purification, as a task which we bring to the future and makes us acknowledge and love all the more the great gift we have received from God….”

Referring to the liturgy in Psalm 23, the Holy Father stressed that God is present to and concerned for humanity, pointing out that man is not abandoned or adrift in the universe and society which leaves him lost and bewildered as perceived by the wound's religions that views God as distant and aloof. He further called on priests to realize that God wants them to share His concern about people and “provide them with a concrete experience of God's concern “.

Further, His Holiness reiterated that God points out the right path to those entrusted to Him and shows them the right way to be human so that they do not squander their life in meaninglessness. However, should their path as individual lead them to temptation, discouragement and trial, even there, God will not abandon mankind.

While calling on Christians and priests to become a well spring which gives life to others like Mother Mary who he referred to as “that great woman of faith and love who has become in every generation a well spring of faith, love and life, Pope Benedict XVI thanked Jesus who in His death and resurrection became the source of life and prayed God to give the faithful life and make them live from Him as their source and make them source, while also thanking God for the grace of the priestly ministry.