Catholic faithful have been encouraged to embrace the inevitable challenges of life with unwavering faith, patience and hope, following the example and teachings of Jesus Christ.
The Parish Priest of St. Anthony of Padua Quasi Parish, Basin Satellite Town, Calabar, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Bassey, gave the admonition during Sunday's Holy Mass while reflecting on the day's liturgical readings and the Gospel message, which centred on the call to discipleship through self-denial and total commitment to Christ.
Delivering a thought-provoking and interactive homily, Rev. Fr. Bassey explained that every Christian is called to carry his or her cross daily and follow Jesus, stressing that suffering is an unavoidable aspect of human existence irrespective of one's social status, wealth or position in society.
According to him, the "crosses of life" manifest in various forms, including sickness, poverty, unemployment, persecution, betrayal, blackmail, the loss of loved ones, disappointments, family crises and other painful experiences that often test the faith of believers.
He noted that when Jesus instructed His disciples to take up their cross and follow Him, He fully understood the trials and hardships that humanity would encounter.
The Priest therefore urged Christians not to despair in moments of adversity but to remain steadfast, trusting that God never abandons those who place their confidence in Him.
Rev. Fr. Bassey emphasized that true discipleship demands patience, truthfulness, perseverance, humility and hope, adding that every trial borne with faith becomes a pathway to spiritual growth and eternal reward.
Drawing inspiration from the First Reading, he highlighted the virtue of generosity as exemplified by the hospitable woman who welcomed the Prophet Elisha into her home.
He observed that her selfless act of kindness attracted divine favour, leading God to bless her with a son despite her old age and previous barrenness.
The Parish Priest explained that acts of generosity and hospitality are never wasted before God, noting that those who willingly serve others become instruments through whom God's blessings flow.
He urged parishioners to cultivate the spirit of giving without expecting earthly rewards, assuring them that God rewards every sincere act of love performed for His sake.
Rev. Fr. Bassey further reminded the congregation that generosity goes beyond financial assistance.
According to him, offering encouragement to the discouraged, comforting the bereaved, visiting the sick, feeding the hungry, forgiving offenders and showing compassion to the vulnerable are equally valuable expressions of Christian charity.
Quoting the words of Christ that "whatever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, you do unto Me," he called on Christians to make humanitarian service a daily lifestyle, stressing that authentic Christianity is measured not merely by prayer but by practical love and concern for humanity.
The Priest concluded by urging the faithful to remain committed to Christ despite the burdens of life, assuring them that every cross carried with faith eventually leads to the joy of resurrection.
He encouraged them to continue trusting in God's providence, knowing that no suffering endured for the sake of righteousness is ever in vain.
The homily inspired deep reflection among members of the congregation, who actively participated throughout the interactive session and were encouraged to strengthen their faith by embracing both the crosses and the blessings that accompany genuine Christian discipleship.
The rendition from the CWO Choir was spectacular as many danced to their tunes.
By David Akate
