Author: Justine John Dyikuk

Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk Second Sunday of Lent Year C – March 13, 2022. Reading: Genesis 15:5-12,17-18; Responsorial Psalm 26:1,7-9,13-14; Philippians 3:17-4:1 & Gospel Luke 9:28-36. The first reading details about the Covenant God established with Abraham. In the second reading, St. Paul warns those he calls the “enemies of the cross of Christ” noting that “they are destined to be lost.” He indicated that our homeland is in heaven where our saviour is waiting to transform our wretched bodies into copies of his glorious body. The Gospel discloses how Jesus took…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk                                                                                    First Sunday of Lent Year C – March 6, 2022. Reading: Deut. 26:4-10; Responsorial Psalm 91:1-2.10-11.12-13.14-15(R.15b); Rom. 10:8-13 & Gospel Luke 4:1-13. In the first reading, Moses recounts to the Israelites how their forebears came from Aram, became a great nation, were ill-treated by the Egyptians but God…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk Eight Sunday of the Year C – February 27, 2022. Reading: Sir. 27:4-7; Responsorial Psalm 92:1-2.12-13.14-15(R.1a); 1 Cor. 15:54-58 & Gospel Luke 6:39-45. Theme: Curbing the Tongue! Sunday Synopsis The first reading discloses that since speech is the test of a man’s integrity, we must guard against praising people before they speak. In the second reading, St. Paul argues that Death is swallowed up in victory as in the end, perishability would take on imperishability. He urges the faithful never to give up as their labour shall not be in…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk                                                                                    Seventh Sunday of the Year C – February 20, 2022. Reading: 1 Sam. 26:2.7-9.12-13.22-23; Responsorial Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.8 &10.12-13(R8a); 1 Cor. 15:45-49 & Gospel Luke 6:27.20-38. Theme: Do My Prophet No Harm! Sunday Synopsis In the first reading – David stated: “The Lord put you in my power, but I…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk                                                                                    Sixth Sunday of the Year C – February 12, 2022. Reading: Jer. 17:2-8; Responsorial Psalm 1:1-2.3.4 &6(R.Ps.40:ab); 1 Cor. 15:12-16-20 & Gospel Luke 6:17.20-26. Theme: The Joy of Detachment! Sunday Synopsis Raised in a society which sees wealth as a blessing from the Lord and poverty as a curse,…

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Fifth Sunday of the Year C – February 06, 2022. Reading: Is. 6:1-2a.3-8; Responsorial Psalm 138:1ac-2a.2bcd-3.4-5.7c-8(R.1b); 1 Cor. 15:1-11 & Gospel Luke 5:1-11. Sunday Synopsis The first reading presents us with the call of Isaiah who felt unworthy to be chosen as a Prophet. In the second reading, St. Paul reminds the Corinthian community of the advantage of believing in the gospel because it saves while warning that believing in anything else will not lead to anything. In narrating the call of the apostles, the gospel tells how Jesus entered Simon’s boat and ordered him and his companions to put…

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Lessons For the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord Move to the next level: By presenting the Child Jesus in the Temple instead of a Synagogue, Mary and Jesus challenge us to move from our supposed level of comfort to the next level of spiritual heights. Catch them Young for Christ: By presenting Jesus in the temple, Jesus’ parents have set an example for parents to take up the noble task of being what Lumen Gentium No 11 calls “first heralds of the gospel” to their children in the Domestic Church through ensuring that their kids get religious education.…

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Fourth Sunday of the Year, C – January 30, 2022.  Readings: Jeremiah 1:4-5,17-19; Responsorial Psalm 70:1-6,15,17; 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 & Gospel Luke 4:21-30. Our first reading reveals that  in the days of King Josiah, the word of the Lord assured of divine knowledge, divine consecration and divine appointment for his elect. In the second reading, St. Paul charged the Corinthians to seek after higher gifts. It highlights love/charity as a springboard for those lofty gifts. In the gospel, Jesus reproves his people for their unbelief and maintained that “no prophet is ever accepted in his own country.” Citing the heroic…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. JustineJ.Dyikuk  Third Sunday of the Year C – January 23, 2022.                                                                                      Readings: Nehemiah 8:2-6,8-10; Responsorial Psalm 18:8-10,15; 1 Corinthians 12:12-30 & Gospel Luke 1:1-4,4:14-21. Theme: A Preferential Option for the Poor! Sunday Synopsis The first reading recounts how Ezra the priest presented the Law to the generality of the children of…

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Second Sunday of the Year C – January 16, 2022. Readings: Isaiah 62:1-5; Responsorial Psalm PS 96:1-3,7-10; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 & Gospel John 2:1-11. Theme: Mother Mary, Our Helper! Sunday Synopsis In the first reading, the Prophet Isaiah brings a message of hope that the nations will see the integrity of the Jerusalem. In the second reading, St. Paul insists that there are a variety of gifts in the Church given by the same Lord but meant for service. He lists these gifts as, preaching, instruction, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, recognising spirits, tongues and interpretation. The Gospel narrates how Jesus…

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The Department of State Services (DSS) has invited the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Kukah for questioning due to his criticism of President Muhammadu Buhari for failing to curb nationwide insecurity, Recall that Bishop Kukah had attacked President Buhari in his Christmas sermon, saying the President has failed to show competence as terrorists, bandits and other violent criminals embark on a coordinated and relentless rampage across the country. “We also have lost count of hundreds of individuals and families who have been kidnapped and live below the radar of publicity,” Mr Kukah of Catholic Diocese of…

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The death has been announced, of the catholic bishop of Ilorin diocese; Most Rev. Paul Olawoore. In an obituary released by the chancellor of the diocese; Very Rev.Fr. Daniel Iletogbe, it was stated that the bishop died following a short illness at the hospital on the 1st of January, 2022. The statement reads “dear Reverend Fathers/Sisters, Brothers & Sisters in the Lord, It is with deep faith in the resurrection and with heavy heart that the Catholic Diocese of Ilorin announces the death of our beloved Bishop, Most Rev. Paul Olawoore. He passed onto glory after a brief illness at…

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The Octave Day of Christmas: Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God/World Day of Peace – January 1, 2022. Readings: Numbers 6:22-27; Responsorial Psalm PS 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8(R.v.2a); Galatians 4:4-7 & Gospel Luke 2:16-21. Theme:  World Peace through Mary. Solemnity Synopsis In the first reading, God commanded Moses to bless the sons and daughters of Israel. In the second reading, St. Paul assures that we have received the spirit of adoption as God’s sons and daughters.  It also discloses that this was made possible through the incarnation of Christ who humbled himself to be born of a…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk December 26, 2021. Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Readings: 1 Sam 1:20-22.24-28; Responsorial Psalm 84:2-3.5-6.9-10(R.5a); 1 Jn. 3:1-2.21-24 & Gospel Luke 2:41-52. Theme: Emulating the Holy Family. Sunday Synopsis The first reading recounts the story of Hannah and Elkanah as aged parents who had no children. In the second reading, Saint John informs that we are God’s children because the Father has lavished so much love upon us. The gospel tells the story of how Jesus got missing in Jerusalem during the feast of Passover…

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The Nativity of the Lord (Vigil Mass), Year A – Dec 24, 2021 Readings: Is 62:1-5; Responsorial Psalm Ps 89:4-5.16-17.29 (2a); Acts 13:16-17.22-25; Gospel – Matthew 1:1-25 or 1:18-25. Theme: A Vigil with the Lord!   Synopsis  In the first reading, the Prophet Isaiah equates our joy to that of a bridegroom who rejoices in his bride. The second reading reveals that the Church awaits the Saviour’s birth, her bridegroom whom John the Baptist heralded as Saint Luke rightly points out. The gospel relates the genealogy of Jesus. It suggests that each member of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary…

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‘‘Many of us crucify ourselves between two thieves – regret for the failures of the past and the fears of the future.’’ –  Fulton Oursler    Another New Year is by the corner! The death of 2021 would give life to 2022. For many, it is the dawn of a new era. Men and women of God would definitely cash in on the situation to declare favours, blessings and breakthroughs for the nation. For many worshippers at various cross-over night worship centers across the length and breadth of the country, it is about expectations and declarations. Expectations of a New Year…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year C – Dec 18, 2021. Readings: Micah 5:1-4; Hebrews 10:5-10 & Gospel Luke 1:39-44. Theme: Recognising the First Tabernacle! Sunday Synopsis The first reading presents us with the assurances of the Prophet Micah to the people that out of Bethlehem will be born one who would rule over Israel. In the second reading, the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews tells us that Christ came to offer himself for us once for all to be holy. He emphasizes that he takes no delight in…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk Third Sunday of Advent, Year C – Gaudete Sunday – Dec 11, 2021. Readings: Zephaniah 3:14-18; Philippians 4:4-7; Gospel Luke 3:10-18. Theme: Rejoice in the Lord!!   Sunday Synopsis In the first reading, the Prophet Zephaniah brings tidings of great joy to the people of Israel.  The second reading is connected to the theme of being joyful as therein, St. Paul assures the Philippians that all he wants is their happiness. The gospel narrative recounts the encounter between John the Baptist and his audience. On ‘Rejoice Sunday,” John’s call to…

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The upsurge of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has seemingly unleashed upon us a world of digital impossibilities. From the excitement of employing social media handles like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, LinkedIn et al to the possibilities of a digital economy, a digital era has dawned upon us. Sadly, in Nigeria, the gains of digitalization seem in reverse gear. With digital authoritarianism as a culprit awaiting sentence in the court of public opinion, a junta in civilian toga has superintended over Twitter ban without qualms. Even the foot-soldiers of Lekki tollgate in their greenhorn and “we move” slogan cannot change the…

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The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe/ Thirty-Fourth Sunday of the Year, B – Last Sunday of the Year: November 21, 2021. Readings: Daniel 7:13-14; Ps 93:1ab.1b-2.5; Rev. 1:5-8; Gospel – Jn. 18:33b-37. Theme: “Yes, I am a King” Sunday Synopsis The first reading discloses that Daniel saw a vision of the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven to the one of great age. In the second reading from the Apocalypse of John, we are presented with Christ, the first-born from the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. John…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk 33rd Sunday of the Year, B – November 14, 2021. Readings: Daniel 12:1-3; Ps 15:5,8-11; Hebrews 10:11-14,18 & Gospel – Mark 13:24-32. Theme: The Uncertainty of Time and Dates Sunday Synopsis The first reading recounts the vision of Daniel about eschatological realities. The second reading reveals that unlike other priests who offer sacrifices daily, Christ has offered one single sacrifice and taken his place in heaven forever where he intercedes for us unceasingly. The epistle disposes the faithful to the reality of being reunited with Christ the High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary where…

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 32nd Sunday of the Year, B – November 7, 2021. Readings: 1 Kings 17:10-16; Ps 145:7-10; Hebrews 9:24-28 & Gospel – Mark 12:38-44. Theme – Unconditional Giving: A Necessity! Sunday Synopsis In the first reading, we are presented with the story of the widow who ministered to the needs of the Prophet Elijah despite her scare resources. The second reading tells us how Christ shared his humanity with us by offering himself unconditionally to take away our sins. In the gospel, we are presented with the story of the widow who gave two copper coins. We are told that Jesus…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk 31st Sunday of the Year, B – October 31, 2021. Readings: Deut. 6:2-6; Ps 17:2-4,47,51; Hebrews 7:23-28 & Gospel – Mark 12:28-34. Theme – Something Greater than Holocaust Sunday Synopsis The first reading reveals the assurances of Moses to the people of Israel. The second reading discloses the eternal nature of Christ’s priesthood. It reveals that he is interceding for us perpetually before the father. In the Gospel, Jesus gives a summary of the law and the prophets as love of God and neighbour. Our liturgy challenges us to embrace…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk 30th Sunday of the Year, B – October 24, 2021/World Mission Sunday. Readings: Jer. 31:7-9; Ps 125:1-6; Hebrews 5:1-6 & Gospel – Mark 10:46-52. Theme: Developing An Unshakable Faith! Sunday Synopsis In the first reading, the Prophet Jeremiah presents us with the message of hope. The second reading reveals Jesus as the heavenly High Priest who pleads our course. The Gospel discloses the encounter between Jesus and Bartimaeus in which the blind beggar was healed. On World Mission Sunday, following the invitation of the Holy Father Pope Francis, we are…

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29th Sunday of the Year, B – October 17, 2021. Readings: Isaiah 53:10-11; Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22; Hebrews 4:14-16 & Mark 10:35-45 Or Mark 10:42-45. Theme – The Danger of Shortcuts  Sunday Synopsis The first reading reveals how the suffering servant “gives his life as an offering for sin.” The second reading stresses that the faithful should hold fast to their faith. The reading reveals that we have a high priest who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses. In the gospel, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus to ask for a favour to…

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ShikrotMpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk 28th Sunday of the Year, B – October 10, 2021. Readings: Wisdom 7:7-11; Ps 89:12-17; Hebrews 4:12-13 & Gospel – Mark 10:17-30. Theme – Redistributing Wealth: An Imperative! Sunday Synopsis The first reading which demonstrates the superiority of Jewish wisdom over pagan wisdom, personifies Wisdom as God who cannot be equated with riches, gold, silver, health, beauty or light. In the second reading, the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews insists that since nothing is hidden from the Lord, we shall give an account of our lives before God. In…

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27th Sunday of the Year, B – October 3, 2021. Readings: Genesis 2:18-24; Ps 127:1-5; Hebrews 2:9-11 & Gospel – Mark 10:2-16. Theme: A Red Card to Divorce! Sunday Synopsis Today’s first reading presents God as the ultimate scientist who creates human beings. The second reading reveals that we are God’s stock. In the gospel text, some Pharisees who stood on the side of the law put Jesus to the test by asking his opinion concerning divorce. Jesus turns the discussion into the original plan of marriage in God’s plan by condemning divorce. Our liturgy challenges Catholic couples to be…

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26th Sunday of the Year, B – September 26, 2021. Readings: Numbers 11:25-29; Ps 18:8,10,12-14; James 5:1-6 & Gospel – Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48. Theme: A Chance for the Eldads and Medads of Our Time! Sunday Synopsis The first reading recounts how Eldad and Medad became beneficiaries of God’s spirit. In the second reading, St. James comes hard on the rich who oppress the poor by reminding them of the day of judgement. The Gospel discloses how Jesus rebuked the Apostles for trying to stop a man who was casting our devils in his name because he was not one of…

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With a borrowed concept of democratization from the United States of America, it is critical for Nigerians to reflect on the instruments of national power in the light of the prevailing situation of security in our county. The unwholesome activities of Boko Haram insurgents, armed bandits, commercial kidnappers, suspected Fulani herdsmen and secessionists shows that the security agencies are overstretched. What is more, it is either security has been compromised, or we are living in a failed state. From American perspective, the instruments of national power include, diplomacy, information, military and economy. By way of clarification, national power stands for…

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Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk 24th Sunday of the Year, B – September 12, 2021. Readings: Isaiah 50:5-9; Ps 114:1-6,8-9; James 2:14-18; Gospel – Mark 8:27-35. Theme: The Scandal of the Cross! Sunday Synopsis The first reading paints the picture of the Suffering Servant who willing accepts pain. In the second reading, St. James maintains that salvation is tied to faith and good works. He makes a case for practical Christianity which takes into cognizance the needs of our brothers and sisters. The Gospel reveals Jesus’ teaching about the cost of discipleship. Therein, Jesus rebuked…

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