By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
The quiet and humble community of Tudu-Uku in Nasarawa State was abuzz with celebrations on June 27, 2024, as it played host to a large influx of guests from across Nigeria and beyond.
It was a gathering to honor one of the revered sons of the land, Most Rev. Matthew Ishaya Audu, the Archbishop of Jos, on the momentous occasion of the 40th anniversary of his priestly ordination.
With warmth and enthusiasm, the energetic and vibrant Bishop of Lafia diocese, Most Rev. David Ajang, welcomed the large assembly of distinguished guests, including Bishops, priests, women of consecrated life, ecclesiastical and civic dignitaries, and a multitude of lay faithful and friends from abroad. He expressed his profound joy and honour of receiving his predecessor, his Metropolitan and the celebrant of the day, Archbishop Audu, back to the diocese, and particularly back to his native village parish where he had been ordained four decades earlier. At the Holy Mass of thanksgiving held at St. Michael Catholic Church, Tudu Uku, the homilist was the revered Rt. Rev. Msgr. Cletus Taminu Gotan. Drawing inspiration from the readings (Jer 1:4-10, 1 Tim 4:12-16, Lk 4:16-22), he highlighted the importance of service, commitment, and dedication, citing Archbishop Audu’s selfless ministry as an example. He emphasized that priestly service is about being present for the people, just as Archbishop Audu has been consistently present for the people of God entrusted to his care at different moments since after his ordination, despite facing challenges and hardships. The distinguished ecclesiastic and erudite scholar encouraged the congregation to re-evaluate their values and priorities, emphasizing the need for attitudinal change, value reorientation, and a fear of God. He stressed the importance for leaders in Nigeria to repent and work for the common good, rather than personal gain. He also emphasized the need for all Christians to witness to the Gospel message in their daily lives, in order to make positive impact on society.
Moreover, the preacher called on all men and women of good will to shun the growing trend of distorted Christianity characterized by selfishness and deceit, and proclaim the true Jesus Christ in the society, where merit will be the sole criterion for opportunities, and where the poor and unknown would receive equal attention and justice. Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, the Archbishop of Abuja, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Archbishop Audu for his tireless and selfless dedication to the Church and society through his priestly and episcopal ministry. He also commended the celebrant for his generosity in donating classrooms to the Tudu Uku community. While acknowledging the significant contributions of the Catholic Church to the provision of social amenities in Nigeria, such as schools and hospitals, he urged the government to collaborate with the Church by facilitating the provision of these services rather than imposing excessive taxation burdens. By doing so, the government can harness the Church’s potential to enhance the well-being of the populace.
A collection was taken up at the conclusion of the Mass to support the completion of another new block, which is still underway. The donations, which is still open to willing hearts, will help fund the remaining construction work, bringing the project closer to its successful completion
