By Olivia Obijiaku
Christians have been called to stand out and shine the light of Christ in the world that is covered in darkness. The Dean of Samaru Deanery of the Catholic Diocese of Zaria, Rev. Fr. Patrick Andrew Atama, who made the call in Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Wednesday, April 29, 2026, leaned on the day’s Gospel (Jn. 12:44-50) on Jesus’ disclosure that He is the Light of the world in teaching participants that they accepted the light of Christ, on the day they were baptized.
The clergyman acknowledged that the world is full of darkness, but implored them to reflect the light of Christ, wherever they find themselves, since they have accepted it through their baptism. He told them to resist the temptation to consent with the world, proffering prayer, fasting and corresponding lifestyle as some of the ways living aright.
“Today, we live in a world that is full of darkness.” He asserted. ”We are supposed to stand out in the midst of darkness. We are not supposed to go with the mentality, ‘If you cannot beat them, join them.’ Please, if you cannot beat them, do not join them. But we cannot stand out and be the light of the world if we do not pray always, if we do not create time to fast and live out our lives as Christians.”
“Remember, Christ died because of the light He brought to the world. The world loves darkness, it believes in darkness. No matter the situation we find ourselves, no matter the level of darkness in the world, we are supposed to stand out. You are called to be a separated person, so that your light will continue to shine in your office, in your family, in your business places and wherever you find yourself.”
