By Charles Igwe
On Saturday, January 18, 2025, about 5,000 faithful gathered at the Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi National Shrine in Igbezunu, Aguleri, for the annual celebration of the feast commemorating his entrance into eternal glory. The event, a significant occasion for Catholics across Nigeria, was organized under the leadership of the Catholic Bishop of Aguleri, Most Rev. Denis Chidi Isizoh. This year’s festivities were presided over by His Grace, Most Rev. Matthew Audu, the Archbishop of Jos.
In his homily, Archbishop Audu urged the faithful to aspire toward sainthood, offering practical advice for spiritual growth. “If you want to be a saint, think like a saint, act like a saint, and you will become a saint,” he remarked. He also encouraged devotees not merely to admire Blessed Tansi but to emulate his life, saying, “Do not be a fan of Bl. Michael Tansi; rather, be his disciple.”
The Archbishop emphasized that sainthood is attainable for everyone, describing saints not as extraordinary individuals but as ordinary people who accomplished everyday tasks with extraordinary faith and devotion. He highlighted how Blessed Tansi exemplified this principle, dedicating his life entirely to God and living with unwavering holiness.
Reflecting on Blessed Tansi’s words, Archbishop Audu noted his profound belief: “If you are going to be a Christian at all, you might as well live entirely for God.” This commitment shaped Blessed Tansi’s life and remained his guiding principle until his death.
The day’s activities included sacramental confessions, veneration of Blessed Tansi’s remains, blessings of religious items, pilgrimages to sacred sites within the shrine, the celebration of Holy Mass, and a collective prayer of intercession led by clergy, religious, and lay faithful.
As the faithful continue to pray for Blessed Tansi’s canonization, they are reminded of his inspiring example and encouraged to strive for sainthood in their own lives. “Becoming saints is the greatest miracle we can achieve,” the Archbishop affirmed.
Gratitude was extended to those who contributed to the success of the event, including the Rector of the National Shrine, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Okagbue; the Postulator for Blessed Tansi’s Cause, Msgr. Emmanuel Nwosu; the Tansi Solidarity Movement; and all devotees. Through the intercession of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, prayers were offered for God’s blessings and guidance.
