By Olivia Obijiaku
The Catholic Bishop of Zaria, Most Rev Dr Habila Tyiakonaboi Daboh has disclosed how surprised he was by the support he received from the clergy and laity of Samaru Deanery of his diocese – at his maiden Cathedraticum to the deanery.
At the Mass which took place in St Enda’s Catholic Church Zaria, on Monday, 25th March 2024, the leader said that he was particularly touched by the acts of sacrifice shown by the flock despite their own challenges and by their ability to come together as a people.
Reacting to the profession of love by the flock made by the Chancellor of the diocese, Very Rev Fr Augustine Isek on behalf of the Dean of Samaru Deanery, Very Rev Fr (Prof) Peter Bauna Tanko who was unavoidably absent at the Mass, Bishop Daboh said he loved his flock more.The Chief Shepherd told them, “Honestly I do not know how to express my shock and I am not mincing words.
You have already shown me that you can do it. And given the fact that people are finding it difficult to eat. There are some of you who are suffering, yet you have decided to give. I wish someone will open my heart to see my joy. I am not rejoicing because you have given money. No. I am rejoicing because you have been able to come together as a bishop to say to me your bishop, ‘Bishop, we can do it.’ I am impressed. As we come together this evening, I am happy seeing all of you.
I love you more.”On the day’s reading, His Lordship explained that Jesus branched Bethany to greet Mary, Martha and Lazarus on His way to Jerusalem to signify community life. He intimated that Mary’s act of wiping Jesus’ feet was a reflection of her compassionate heart, her concern for her Master, and her feeling that it was worthwhile to give back everything to God, unlike Judas who spoke out of selfish reasons.Bishop Daboh charged them to reach out to the needy ones among them with a sense of urgency.
He set the pace by disclosing that he will give everything that he received at the cathedraticum to a needy person he knows – Zaria diocese.
