By Olivia Obijiaku
Reflecting on the theme: ‘Sent into the World: Reaching Every Nation as One Body’, on Mission Sunday, 18th October, 2026, Rev Isaac Illah of the Catholic Diocese of Zaria, charged Catholic faithful to evangelize the world through their lifestyles. He reminded them that people look up to them as Catholics as good models.
The ordained told them that people watch them before they hear what they say, because beyond their preaching, their lifestyle is another Gospel that influences people the more.
He also admonished them to start their missionary activities from their respective families and to pray for their country, Nigeria.“People watch you before they hear you.’ He told them. “Do you cheat in your shop? Do you take bribe in your office? Do you forgive in your family? You are preaching the Gospel when your husband or wife sees your patience, your prayer, and your forgiveness. Your family is your first mission ground.”“Let us continue to pray for our country Nigeria. We pray for peace, for an end to killing, kidnapping, hunger. Let us be missionaries of peace in our compounds, in our WhatsApp groups, in our use of words. Let us stop spreading hatred. The scripture says that the feet of those who bring Good News are beautiful. Make your feet beautiful today. Make your hands beautiful. Make your money beautiful by giving it for the spread of the Gospel.”
The deacon recounted some of the challenges that missionaries encounter, including adduction, economic hardship, fatigue, and loneliness, soliciting prayers and support for them. “They need your prayer. One Hail Mary from you every day can keep a missionary standing. Be missionary with your support.” He specified.
