Unitatis Media

25/01/2025

HOMILY FOR THE 3RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C
26th/1/2025.

Theme:"The Mission of Christ: A Call to Action"

Dearly beloved, today’s Gospel presents a powerful moment in the ministry of Jesus: the declaration of His mission. As He reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, Jesus lays out His manifesto—a clear and bold proclamation of His purpose. This moment sets the tone for everything He will do, and it carries profound implications not only for His listeners then but also for us today.

Main Message:
In the Gospel of Luke (4:14-21), Jesus reads these words:

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."

With these words, Jesus declares His mission to transform the world by bringing healing, liberation, and hope. But more than that, He reveals the heart of God—a God who sees the suffering, the marginalized, and the broken, and desires their restoration.

1. The Manifesto of the Kingdom:
Jesus' mission is radical because it turns the world’s priorities upside down. Instead of catering to the powerful or wealthy, He focuses on the poor, the captives, the blind, and the oppressed. This is not just a message of comfort but a challenge to the structures of injustice that perpetuate inequality and suffering.

Jesus' manifesto is also a fulfillment of prophecy. By quoting Isaiah, He links His mission to the promises of God throughout history, showing that His work is part of God’s eternal plan of salvation.

2. The Risk of Proclaiming the Truth:
Declaring His mission was not without risk. Jesus' words would challenge the status quo and provoke opposition from those who benefitted from systems of oppression. His ultimate fate—rejection, suffering, and death on the cross—reminds us that living out God's mission requires courage and sacrifice.

3. Implications for Us Today:
If Jesus' mission was to bring good news to the poor and liberation to the oppressed, then as His followers, it must become our mission too. We are called to be His hands and feet in the world, reaching out to those in need, advocating for justice, and shining the light of God’s love in dark places.

The Gospel challenges us to examine our own lives:
- Who are the poor, the captives, and the oppressed in our world today?
- How can we, as individuals and as a community, bring the Good News to them?
- Are we willing to stand for what is right, even when it is uncomfortable or costly?

Conclusion:
Jesus' declaration of His mission was a call to action—not just for Himself but for all who would follow Him. As we reflect on His words today, let us recommit ourselves to being agents of His Kingdom. Let us bring hope where there is despair, freedom where there is bo***ge, and healing where there is pain.

May we have the courage to live out Jesus' manifesto in our own lives, trusting in the Spirit of the Lord, who anoints us for this holy work.

Amen 🙏

© Fr Cyriacus Kamai

25/01/2025

JALINGO DIOCESE ORDAINS 4 PRIESTS

The Catholic Diocese of Jalingo has Ordained 4 young men into the Ministerial priesthood. Their names are Reverends Januarius Raphael Shomfo, James Swakkai, Timothy Donatus Terzungwe, and Simon Terzungwe.

The Ordination took place on 24-01-2025 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, Shavou Mile Six Jalingo.

In his homily during the Ordination Mass, the Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev Dr Charles Hammawa charged the ordinands not to be carried away by the glamour and title of the offices they will occupy eventually but they should be stewards of the people of God. He exhorted them to love God, love the Church, love the people of God and the Priesthood. Bishop Hammawa urged the faithful to always pray for their Priests so that they will remain Holy and conscientious priests.

The newly Ordained Priests were given new Mass Boxes and their Faculties.
After the Holy Mass, the Bishop blessed the new Cars the Diocese bought for them even as some of them held short receptions in the Church premises and the Diocesan Conference Hall at the Pastoral Center.

Their Thanksgiving Masses are scheduled for 26th January 2025 at St Patrick's Pastoral Area Kpantinapo, Church of Assumption Kona Garu and St Agnes Dinya Parishes respectively.

May God bless His priests and the priesthood. Amen.

24/01/2025

Catholic Diocese of Jalingo ⛪️
Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, Shavon Mile Six

Priestly Ordination 2025

24/01/2025

⛪️ Catholic Diocese of Jalingo ⛪️
Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, Shavon Mile Six

Priestly Ordination 2025

23/01/2025

20/01/2025

BISHOP'S PASTORAL VISIT TO ST. MARY MAZARA

Most Rev Charles Michael Hammawa has payed a Pastoral Visit to St Mary's Pastoral Area Mazara in Zing LGA on Sunday the 19th of January 2025. There he blessed the marriage of 10 couples and gave the Sacrament of Confirmation to 230 candidates.

During his Homily at the Mass of the visit, Bishop Charles thanked God for always working marvels for us by inspiring His people to move towards Him by the reception of the Sacraments. While reflecting on the readings of the Sunday, with particular reference to the Second reading, taken from 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, where Paul reminds us of the different gifts God has endowed us with differently, the Bishop said we are to use our gifts and talents to better our faith as Christians, touching the lives of our brothers and sisters. He went on to say that we should do all these in unity and love as children of one family, and our gifts and talents are not to be a source of division and pride.

The Priest in Charge Rev Fr James Emmanuel Teku thanked the Bishop on behalf of the parishioners and prayed that his visit brings healing, unity, love and restoration to St Mary's Pastoral Area Bitako Mazara and the entire Bitako Zone.

We say a big Amen to Fr Teku's prayers.

18/01/2025

Homily for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C. 19/1/2025
Theme: “The Transformative Power of Jesus and Mary in Marriage”

Dearly beloved, today’s Gospel leads us to the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performs His first miracle at the request of His mother, Mary. This moment marks the beginning of His public ministry, and its setting—a marriage—highlights the sanctity of married life. Jesus and Mary’s presence at this wedding is not coincidental. It signifies their interest in the joys, challenges, and sanctification of married life.

Significance of Jesus and Mary’s Presence in Marriage

1. Jesus Brings Transformation and Renewal:
At the wedding, when the wine ran out, Jesus intervened to turn water into wine, saving the couple from embarrassment and ensuring the celebration continued. This miracle symbolizes His power to transform ordinary moments and difficult challenges in marriage into opportunities for joy, grace, and renewal. His presence in marriage makes it a reflection of God’s covenantal love—faithful, self-giving, and fruitful.

2. Mary Intercedes on Our Behalf:
Mary’s role at Cana demonstrates her maternal care and attentiveness. She notices the need before anyone asks for help and approaches Jesus on behalf of the couple. Her words, “Do whatever He tells you,” are not only a directive for the servants but also a reminder for us to trust Jesus and follow His guidance in every aspect of our lives, especially in marriage. Mary’s intercession is a powerful source of grace for Christian couples, teaching them to seek her help in their joys and struggles.

3. God Blesses Marriage as Sacred and Joyful:
By choosing to perform His first miracle at a wedding, Jesus affirms the sacredness and beauty of marriage. The abundance of the best wine signifies the overflowing grace and joy that come with Christ’s presence in married life. When couples invite Jesus and Mary into their marriage, their relationship becomes a wellspring of divine love, peace, and unity.

Lessons for Married Couples

- Invite Jesus and Mary Into Your Marriage:
Begin and sustain your marriage with prayer, asking for the presence of Christ and the intercession of Mary. A marriage centered on Christ and guided by Mary’s care is strengthened by divine grace.

- Trust in God’s Power to Transform:
Just as Jesus transformed water into wine, He can transform difficulties, misunderstandings, and challenges in marriage into moments of growth and grace. Trust in His power to renew and sustain your love.

- Learn to Intercede for Each Other:
Like Mary at Cana, be attentive to each other’s needs and advocate for one another in prayer. A praying spouse is a powerful support in times of joy and struggle.

- Obey Jesus’ Guidance:
Mary’s instruction, “Do whatever He tells you,” reminds couples to trust and follow God’s Word and teachings in their marriage. His guidance leads to true joy and fulfillment.

- Celebrate the Joy of Marriage:
The wedding at Cana was a joyful celebration, and Jesus’ miracle ensured it continued. Celebrate the gift of your marriage, cherishing the moments of joy and finding strength in God’s grace during challenges.

Conclusion

The presence of Jesus and Mary at the wedding at Cana reminds us of the importance of inviting them into marriages. Their presence brings transformation, renewal, and abundant grace. As we reflect on this Gospel, let us ask for the intercession of Mary and the guidance of Jesus to strengthen and sanctify our relationships, making them a true reflection of God’s love and joy. May all Christian marriages shine with the light of Christ and the maternal care of Mary, drawing others closer to the divine love they embody.

© Fr Cyriacus Kamai

18/01/2025

CWO holds a 3-day workshop

Catholic Women Organization, CWO, Jalingo Diocese have held a 3-day workshop on the theme, "Strengthening the Capacities of Women on Ending Violence and Discrimination Against Women and Girls in Nigeria."

The workshop started on the 16th and ended on the 18th January 2025 in the Diocesan Conference Hall of St Charles Borromeo Pastoral Center Mile Six Jalingo.

Welcoming the participants at the event, the President Catholic Women Organization, CWO, Jalingo Diocese, Mrs. Noble Egla Ibrahim noted that the workshop will serve as a platform for them to explore strategies, educate themselves and develop practical solutions to addressing the persistent challenge of violence on women and girls.

Presenting her paper on the theme, "Strengthening the Capacities of Women on Ending Violence and Discrimination Against Women and Girls in Nigeria," the president of the Organization Mrs. Noble Egla Ibrahim called on mothers to eschew behaviours that will inadvertently traumatize children. She enumerated such vices to include verbal abuse, overcorrecting children, and being harsh to children. She said children should rather be taught how to open up and speak about harm done to them, she added by charging all women to be prayerful and upright, leaning on the grace of Mary the mother of God for her Divine intervention.

Sensitising the women on the need to be Hepatitis free, Dr Emmanuel G. Gabriel tasked the women to immune themselves against Hepatitis so as to create a Hepatitis free society. He tested the participants of the program on hepatitis and gave vaccines to others in order to protect them against the infection.

Present at the occasion was the Diocesan Chaplain of CWO, Rev Fr Jesse Randakwa and the Diocesan Sister Adviser, Sr Mirabel Anya IJ.

May God bless and sustain the CWO of the Diocese. Amen.

17/01/2025

Annual Retreat at St Robert Bellarmine Institute for Catechesis and Religious Education, Jimlari.

It ended in praise with students reinvigorated to continue with the academic year.

May their quest for learning never quench, and their zeal for evangelization never waver. Amen.

16/01/2025

Director of Social Communications calls for sincere commitment as staff holds first meeting in 2025

The staff of the Directorate of Social Communications Catholic Diocese of Jalingo have been called upon to give their sincere commitment to the work of propagating the Gospel of Christ through the media.

The Director of Communications, Rev Fr Abraham Saumam made this passionate call in their first meeting held on the 14/01/2025 in the communications office situated in the Catholic Secretariat Mile Six Jalingo.

The Director charged members of the communications team to be committed and to take their work with all seriousness in the year 2025, he added that the meeting is to further strengthen the bond of professional excellence, integrity and dexterity in the functions of the Directorate. He went on to commend the increasing positive change in the office, and asserted that people should look out for more innovations from the Directorate.

The Deputy Director Rev Fr Walter Fai commended the efforts of the staff even as he tasked the members of Staff to ensure the realization of the set objectives of the Directorate, as he said the Directorate intends to diversify its Media outreach in the coming year.

The meeting had in attendance, the Editor In-Chief, Unitatis Media and the Director, Rev Fr Abraham Saumam and the Deputy Editor, Rev Fr Walter Fai.

Other members of Staff of the Communications office and their portfolios are, the Staff Writer, Mr. Peter Ugbidye, the Videographer, Mr. Emmanuel Chrisantus, the Photographer, Mr. Francisco Ezra, the Live Streamer Mr. Raphael and the assistant Photographer and Videographer Mr Terry Innocent.

May God bless and reward all efforts to make the Directorate of the Diocese carry out its functions well and to the glory of God. Amen.

16/01/2025

Keep the date

14/01/2025

Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Thanksgiving Celebrated in OLQP Cathedral

The Armed Forces, Taraba State Chapter have celebrated their Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral Mile Six Jalingo on 12/1/2025.

The event which is interdenominational began with a Match Parade into the Cathedral Church with all dignitaries following suit.

The event proceeded with the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, who was ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Barr. Gibon Kataps, and he read the first lesson. The second lesson was taken by Brigadier General K. C. Uwa the Commander 6 Brigade, Jalingo followed by the prayer for leadership which was taken by Brigadier General Faransa (Rtd) after which the prayer for the retired and discharged colleagues was said by the Commissioner of Police, Ukachi Peter Opara. The prayer for the dead and the disabled colleagues was offered by the State Director of SSS Jalingo Command, Victor O. Edet.

The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese the Most Rev Charles Michael Hammawa gave words of exhortation. In his exhortation, Bishop Hammawa charged the Armed Forces to serve their Fatherland selflessly and faithfully. He tasked them to put a stop to compromising standards no matter the situation and circumstances even as he tasked the Federal Government to quickly pay the retired Armed Forces their remunerations considering their nature of work.

Lt. Col. F. N. Alitumo gave a brief history of the Nigeria Armed Forces.

In his vote of thanks, the Commander 6 Brigade, Brig. Gen. K. C. Uwa noted that, "May today's combined service be a source of strength, inspiration and unity for us all. We remember and honour the sacrifices, bravery and resilience of our fallen heroes who have laid down their lives in the line of duty," he concluded.

May God bless and grant the Armed Forces the necessary grace to carry out their duties diligently and dedicatedly. Amen.

13/01/2025

JALINGO DIOCESE DONATES 4 MOTORCYCLES TO 4 CATECHIST

The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev Charles Hammawa has through the office of the Pontifical Missions Societies, PMS, donated 4 motorcycles to 4 Catechists in 4 different Parishes of the Diocese.

The beneficiaries include; Catechists Michael Msough from St Oliver's Maihula, Nathaniel Namnai from St Monica's Namnai, Aloysius Ava St Paul's Bali and Timothy Ukor from St Paul's Tella.

Appreciating the Bishop on behalf of the beneficiaries, Catechist Aloysius Ava expressed their deepest appreciation to the Bishop for his zeal in the salvation of all souls in the Diocese. He noted further that the motorcycles will enable them to reach out to the remotest communities to evangelize and promote pastoral care to their brothers and sisters in those areas and they pledged to use the motorcycles judiciously to the greater glory of God.

Responding, the PMS Director of Jalingo Diocese, Rev Fr Abraham Godwin Yahaya said the motorcycles were given to those Parishes based on the needs of the Parish and in collaboration with the Parish Priest who suggests a Catechist or Catechists who take care of bigger Zones or bigger Extended Christian Communities, ECC, and are in need of mobility.

He added that at the recommendation of the Parish Priest, the PMS Director will do his own background check before the donation is finally approved. The Director further said that the donation of motorcycles will continue if people are supporting the Pontifical Missions Societies and if the economy is good, he added that the PMS will make it a yearly event if people are cooperating in this regard.

In his own remarks, the Chaplain of Jalingo Diocesan Catechist's Association, Rev Fr Emmanuel Colman tasked the beneficiaries to use the motorcycles effectively for their Pastoral work only even as he charged them not to sell the motorcycles in order to satisfy their personal needs.

May the work of Evangelization through the PMS and Catechists of the Diocese yield fruits for His people and to the glory of His name. Amen.

12/01/2025

PRAYERS WERE ALSO OFFERED FOR THE PRIESTS WHO HAVE DIED

At the end of the annual Priests' Retreat, prayers were also offered for the the priests whom the Diocese has lost to death at the gravesite which is at the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral.

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

11/01/2025

HOMILY FOR SUNDAY OF THE BAPTISM OF OUR LORD.

Theme: "The Baptism of Jesus: A Revelation and a Commission"

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, a pivotal event in Jesus’ life and a moment filled with profound significance. This is not just a story about water and a ritual. It is a revelation of Jesus’ identity, a manifestation of the Trinity, and a commissioning that carries implications for all of us who follow Him.

In the Gospel, we see Jesus coming to John at the River Jordan. John, recognizing the holiness of Jesus, hesitates and says, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you come to me?” But Jesus insists. Why? Jesus does not come to the water for repentance, for He is without sin. Instead, He comes to align Himself with humanity, to stand in solidarity with us in our need for salvation.

When Jesus is baptized, something extraordinary happens: the heavens are opened, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the voice of the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This moment is a revelation of who Jesus is—the beloved Son of God—and marks the beginning of His public ministry. It is a moment of commissioning, as Jesus steps forward to fulfill His mission of bringing God’s love and salvation to the world.

For us, this event is not just about Jesus. It speaks directly to our own lives and faith. Through our baptism, we too are claimed as beloved sons and daughters of God. We are given a new identity, one that is rooted in God’s love. Baptism is not just a symbolic act; it is a transformative moment when we are united with Christ, cleansed of sin, and anointed with the Holy Spirit.

But like Jesus, baptism also comes with a commission. We are called to live out our baptism every day by following Jesus, sharing His love with others, and working to bring His light into a world that so often feels dark. It is an invitation to live in, constant awareness of God’s presence, to seek justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God.

Take-Home Message:

Today’s feast is a reminder of three important truths:
1. Our Identity: Like Jesus, we are beloved children of God. This identity is the foundation of our worth and purpose.
2. Our Mission: Baptism calls us to be active participants in God’s work, sharing His love and truth in our families, communities, and the world.
3. God’s Grace: The Holy Spirit, who descended on Jesus at His baptism, is the same Spirit who strengthens and guides us in our daily lives.

As you leave today, remember this: God has called you by name and claimed you as His own. You are beloved, and your life has a purpose rooted in God’s love. Let us renew our commitment to live as baptized Christians, bearing witness to the love and mercy of God in all we do.

Amen.

© Fr Cyriacus Kamai

07/01/2025

"Out of the depths of my heart I cry to you O Lord, Lord hear my cry."
Psalm 130:1-2

THE ONGOING PRIESTS' RETREAT FOR THE YEAR 2025

05/01/2025

PRIESTS OF JALINGO DIOCESE BEGIN RETREAT FOR THE YEAR 2025

The priests of the Diocese have begun their retreat today Sunday 5th January and will end on Saturday the 11th.

May the Lord listen to their prayers for the Diocese; may He reinvigorate their zeal of serving God and His people; and may the Lord grant all their private intentions. Amen.

05/01/2025

SR AGNES FWAH IJ BURIES FATHER

December 25th 2024 will remain a day of deep memory of sadness in the hearts of all the members of the Fwah family and the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral Mile Six Jalingo, when they lost a dedicated and humble father and friend. Mr. Donald Fwah aka African Nigeria as was fondly called by many, died on Christmas day after battling with a brief illness and was laid to rest on 3/01/2025 at his home town in Bare, Numan Local Government Area in Adamawa State.

Preaching the homily at the Requiem Mass at the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral Mile Six Jalingo, Rev Fr Walter Fai exhorted Christians to put a stop to saying "death is not their portion" for according to him, it is inimical to Catholicism. He said the proclamation, "Christ has died, Christ is Risen, Christ will come again" means that everyone will die and rise to meet with Christ on the last day.

In his condolence message, the representative of the deceased family, Mr. Jude Victor describes the late Donald Fwah as a respectful and humble Catholic who impacted positively on the lives of others.

Speaking on behalf of the Infant Jesus Sisters, Sr Anna Patrick noted that a worthy Christian Life is measured by the good things we are able to do for other people. She added that the deceased has left indelible marks in the lives of many. She condoled with her fellow sister, Sr Agnes FWAH and prayed God to grant Baba eternal rest.

The Cathedral Church was were he worshipped. The Vice Chairman, Mr. Igyptil Chagwa described the late African Nigeria's life as one of a good Catholic Christian.

In his condolence message at the funeral, the Chairman Catholic Men Organization, CMO, Cathedral Church, Mr. James Baka said the late African Nigeria's life will be summed up as one who puts smiles on the faces of many and he allowed himself to suffer for others to be happy and comfortable.

Representing the members of the Metropolitan Choir, the Chairman Mr. Mike Maina said they have learned a lot from late African Nigeria's simplicity and quiet generosity which made a lot of people happy and they will greatly miss him.

In his vote of thanks during the Funeral, the Cathedral Administrator, Very Rev Fr Peter Tari noted that the deceased had positively impacted on the lives of many during his stay on earth. He commiserated with the members of the family of the deceased and prayed that God will grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

Late Mr. Donald Fwah was laid to rest in his family compound at Bare in Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Until his death, Mr. Donald Fwah was an active member of the Catholic Men Organization and a member of the Choir.

Notable among those present at the funeral were the Vicar General Yola Diocese, Very Rev Fr Godwin Bonyo, Very Rev Fr David Jagos, OSA, the Franciscan Sisters of Divine Motherhood, the Augustinian Sisters of the Mercy of Jesus, AMJ, and the Infant Jesus Sisters, IJ.

May God rest Baba's soul. Amen