KATSINA DEANERY CATHEDRATICUM AT ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, DUTSINMA.
3/26/2026
The Cathedraticum of Katsina Deanery was solemnly celebrated at St Mary's Parish Dustinma on the 24th March, 2026
The liturgical celebration began with a solemn procession led by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Mamman Musa, flanked by Monsignor Joseph Keke Atado and the Dean of Katsina Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Matthias Bakoshi, alongside other priests of the deanery, including Very Rev. Fr. Luka Yohanna, Rev. Fr. John Bahywa Amos, Rev. Fr. John Ochekwu, Rev. Fr. Solomon Akor, Rev. Fr. Jerome, and Rev. Fr. Victor Chibuzor and Rev Fr Casmir Obi. The procession also included the Knights, catechists, lay readers, and altar servers.
In his welcome address, the Dean, Very Rev. Fr. Matthias Bakoshi, warmly welcomed the Bishop, the priests, and all the faithful. He spoke briefly on the importance of the cathedraticum in strengthening unity in the diocese.
The first reading was taken from the Book of Genesis (17:3–9). The Responsorial Psalm was from Psalm 105: “The Lord remembers His covenant forever.” The Gospel, taken from John (8:51–59), was proclaimed by Rev. Fr. John Amos Bahywa.
In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the covenant between God and Abraham in the first reading, showing how God remains faithful to His promises. He connected this to the Gospel where Jesus says, “If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death,” reminding the faithful of the importance of obeying God’s word.
He explained that God’s commandments are not meant to punish us, but to guide us and lead us to true happiness. They help show us the right way to live. He also reminded the faithful that Jesus Christ has come to show us that way.
The Bishop further explained that the Church is not just an organization, but a family of believers united in Christ. He said the gathering for the cathedraticum is a sign of unity and support for the mission of the Church.
He concluded by saying that the cathedraticum brings people together and strengthens the bond among the faithful as they continue the work of evangelization.
The Mass continued with the offertory procession and the consecration of the Holy Eucharist. The faithful exchanged the sign of peace and received Holy Communion with reverence.
This was followed by the thanksgiving procession, during which parishes, societies, organizations, schools, and hospitals came forward to offer their thanksgiving and support for the mission of the Church.
At the end of the celebration, the Dean, Very Rev. Fr. Mathias Bakoshi, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Bishop, priests, religious, and all the faithful for their presence and contributions. He also prayed for God’s protection upon everyone as they returned to their various destinations.
In his concluding remarks, Bishop Gerald Mamman Musa thanked all who contributed to the success of the celebration, especially those who traveled from far and near. He commended the generosity and sacrifices of the parishes.
The celebration concluded with the final blessing at 12:30pm, followed by group photographs, bringing the Cathedraticum of Katsina Deanery to a joyful and memorable close.
