Priests Urged to Embrace Love, Perseverance and Community Service

Yola, Adamawa – June, 2 2025

As the Catholic Diocese of Yola celebrated the Silver Jubilee of two of its devoted priests, Fr. Justine Dabo and Fr. Clement Wiu, priests across Nigeria were reminded of their divine calling to serve with love, patience, and perseverance in the face of growing pastoral demands.

Delivering the homily at the Jubilee Mass, Fr. Zachariah Sanjumi, immediate past Secretary of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, emphasized that priesthood goes far beyond celebrating Mass. “Many people see the Mass as the sole responsibility of the priest,” he stated, “but the priest bears numerous burdens—spiritual, emotional, and physical—as he leads his flock in the path of righteousness.”

Fr. Sanjumi urged priests to remain strong in their vocation and not be discouraged by the challenges they face, including isolation, unrealistic expectations, and societal pressure. He stressed that priests are called to be role models, spiritual fathers, and bridges of peace in their communities.

In a congratulatory message, the Catholic Bishop of Yola, Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza, rejoiced with the jubilarians, describing their 25 years of service as a testament to unwavering faith and pastoral commitment. He lauded their contributions to the growth of the Church and their pastoral care for the people.

The Bishop further encouraged young priests and seminarians to emulate the humility, resilience, and dedication exhibited by Frs. Dabo and Wiu throughout their priestly journey.

The Mass was attended by clergy, religious, traditional leaders, friends, and parishioners from various communities. The event was rich in cultural expression and was climaxed with traditional dances, songs of praise, and a grand reception in honour of the celebrants.

The celebration served as both a thanksgiving and a renewal of priestly vows, reminding all in attendance of the sacred mission of the priesthood in today’s complex world.

Titus Innocent Isinga, Hicia News