The Catholic Church in Nigeria celebrated the Solemnity of Our Lady, Queen and Patroness of Nigeria, on 1 October, a celebration that coincides with Nigeria’s Independence Day and provides a significant opportunity for prayer, reflection and renewed commitment to the nation.
At St. Martin de Porres Catholic Cathedral, Katsina, the clergy and parishioners gathered in large numbers at 7:00 a.m. to commence the October Devotion with a Rosary Procession led by Lady Agnes Aluko (LAUX). The faithful prayed particularly for the intentions of Nigeria, entrusting the nation and its people to the maternal care and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Holy Mass for Our Lady, Queen and Patroness of Nigeria
The Holy Mass for the solemnity commenced at 8:00 a.m. with a solemn procession led by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Mamman Musa, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina.
He was joined by Very Rev. Fr. Matthias Abbas Bakoshi, Very Rev. Fr. Luka Magaji Yohanna, Rev. Fr. Victor Somadina Chibuzor, Rev. Fr. Damian Zomahoun, seminarians, lectors and Altar Knights.
At the beginning of the celebration, Bishop Musa offered the Holy Mass for the protection of Nigeria, peace in the country and the growth and development of the nation.
Liturgy of the Word
The First Reading, taken from the Book of Isaiah 11:1–10, was proclaimed by Mr. Kwaghza Gabriel.
The Responsorial Psalm, Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 12–13, 17, with the response, “In his days shall justice flourish, and great peace forever,” was chanted by Miss Helen Grace Audu.
The Second Reading, from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians 2:13–22, was read by Mr. Uche Okonkwo.
The Gospel according to Matthew 2:13–15, 19–23 was proclaimed by Rev. Fr. Victor Somadina Chibuzor.
Bishop Musa Calls Nigerians to Reflect on the Nation’s Journey
In his homily, Bishop Gerald Musa invited the faithful to use the occasion of Nigeria’s Independence Day to reflect on the country’s journey and ask an important question: Are we becoming more divided or more united as a nation?
Reflecting on the meaning of independence, the Bishop noted that Nigeria’s freedom from British colonial rule should also prompt citizens to examine how free and united the nation has become in practice.
He challenged the faithful to look beyond differences of language, tribe and religion and to consider the character and values expressed in their daily interactions. He urged Nigerians to reject hatred, gossip, division and other attitudes that undermine national unity.
The Bishop also reflected on the increasing number of Nigerians migrating to other countries in search of peace and better opportunities. While acknowledging the right of citizens to migrate, he called for collective efforts to create conditions that would make Nigeria a country where its citizens can live, work and prosper.
He further challenged Nigerians to move beyond merely discussing the problems confronting the nation. According to him, citizens must honestly examine how their individual choices and actions either contribute to the problems of the country or promote its progress.
Addressing concerns about economic hardship and public policies, the Bishop referenced issues surrounding wages and the removal of fuel subsidy, while urging citizens to remain attentive to matters affecting their welfare and the future of the nation.
With elections approaching, Bishop Musa also encouraged Nigerians not to allow themselves to be influenced by inducements or material benefits at the expense of their conscience. He urged the faithful to allow their conscience to guide them towards making responsible choices and doing what is right for the common good.
He concluded his reflection with a prayer that God would heal Nigeria, bless farmers, entrepreneurs and children, guide the nation’s leaders, and protect the integrity of the country.
Liturgy of the Eucharist
The celebration continued with the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Evangelist and Mrs. Bello presented the Oblata to the altar, after which the Offertory took place.
The Mass also included thanksgiving celebrations. Evangelist Bello and Master Michael Okpanachi offered thanksgiving for their birthdays, while Mr. and Mrs. Uche Okonkwo gave thanks for their wedding anniversary.
The Eucharistic Celebration continued with the active participation of the faithful.
Bishop Thanks Faithful as Celebration Concludes
In his closing remarks, Bishop Gerald Musa expressed appreciation to the clergy, parishioners and all the faithful who participated in the Rosary Procession and Holy Mass marking Nigeria’s Independence Day and the Solemnity of Our Lady, Queen and Patroness of Nigeria.
The Holy Mass came to a close at 10:00 a.m.
The celebration concluded with a renewed prayerful entrustment of Nigeria to the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with the faithful praying that Our Lady, Queen and Patroness of Nigeria, may continue to intercede for the nation, its leaders and its people.
Happy Independence Day to Nigeria. May God heal, protect and bless our nation. Amen.