By Olivia Obijiaku
On Sunday, July 13, 2025, Rev Fr. James Akema celebrated the first Mass at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he charged parishioners to reach out to the needy ones around them.
Observing that some people who neglect the needy ones around them, but prefer reaching out to those in other places, where people would applaud them, the clergyman hinged his message on the day’s Gospel on the Parable of the Good Samaritan in catechizing that, by that parable, Jesus has redefined the meaning of who one’s neighbor is.
“Jesus has redefined the meaning of who your neighbor is.” The priest taught. “It goes beyond your tribe, peers, religion or region. Anyone who is in need of your help is your neighbor. Do you see yourself attending to your neighbor when he or she is in need? It is our responsibility to show compassion to others as we continue on this journey.”
“Let charity begin at home. Some of us are generous to people outside but ignore the people around them. They want to give, so that people will clap for them. They must not clap for you, to give. There are people who need your help around you. Some of them do not need your money. They may need your smile alone.”
Fr. Akema implored the needy to make concerted effort to address their needs, clarifying that, “Even though we are mandated to help others, those in need should not be lazy. You do not have to wait for people to help you.”
