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…
Author: Justine John Dyikuk
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…
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…
Introduction In Catholic tradition, the teaching about the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary have deep theological meaning. Often times, Jesus’ Passion opens a fresh chapter into the Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM). The Calvary Event sets the tune for a sober reflection on The Exaltation of the Holy Cross often celebrated on 14th September. That celebration showcases Christianity as a practical religion which involves real people and actual suffering. We shall reflect on how the Cross which was supposed to be an instrument of shame became a source of salvation. Jesus’ Passion The…
Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk 23rd Sunday of the Year, B – September 5, 2021. Readings: Isaiah 35:4-7; Ps 145:7-10; James 2:1-5 & Gospel – Mark 7:31-37. Theme: Courage, Fear Not! Sunday Synopsis Isaiah talks about distributive and restorative justice by asserting that God repays each man according to his deeds. In the second reading, St. James cautions his audience to avoid judging others and showing partiality. The gospel recalls the healing of the deaf man who had a speech impediment. Just as Jesus restored the man in the gospel to health of mind and…
Unlike other developed nations of the world like the United States of America and United Kingdom where diversity is a catalyst for socio-economic transformation, Nigerians have not been able tap into the nation’s diversity as a currency for unity and integral development. Instead of seeing the 371 tribes across the country as a huge deposit waiting to mature, Nigerians see themselves first either as Igbo, Yoruba or Igbo. Sadly too, it is easy for fellow countrymen and women to regard themselves first as Muslim, Christian or Animist than Nigerian. As a consequence, we are left with a weak sense…
22nd Sunday of the Year, B – August 29, 2021. Readings: Deut. 4:1-2.6-8; Ps 15:2-3a.3bc-4ab.5(R.1a); James 1:17-18.21b-22.27 & Gospel – Mark 7:1-8.14-15.21-23. Theme: The Demands of True Religion Sunday Synopsis The first reading reveals how God demanded the diligent attention of the sons and daughters of Israel. In the second reading, St. James makes the point that “as God’s first fruits” we are called to a wholehearted service. The Gospel text recalls the criticism Jesus received from some Pharisees and Scribes who came from Jerusalem. Jesus called them hypocrites accusing them of honouring him with lip service while…
21st Sunday of the Year, B – August 22, 2021. Readings: Joshua 24:1-2a.15-17.18b; Ps 34:1-2.15-16.17-18.19-20.21-22(R.8a); Ephesians 5:21:32 & Gospel – John 6:60-69. Theme: A Choice for God! Introduction Our liturgy this Sunday talks about making choices. The age-old adage “our choices either make or mar us” is instructive here. According to Kofi Annan, “To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there.” In his autobiography, Martin Luther King Jr. stated: “Of course I was religious. I…
“Remove Justice, and what are Kingdoms but Gangs of Criminals on a Large Scale” – St. Augustine (354-430) It has been widely reported that the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami claimed that President Muhammadu Buhari could not eat after learning that some travelers were killed in Jos, the Plateau State Capital. In strong terms, the callous act is condemnable. No life must be taken on any account. Our hearts go to the families of the victims. We look forward to the arrest and prosecution of those who carried out the dastardly act. While that is said, it is…
1.In the Catholic Church, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM) is a dogma. A Dogma is a light along the path of faith and an official teaching of the Catholic Church that pertains to Faith and Morals which is pproclaimed by the Magisterium – the teaching body of the Church through the Roman Pontiff and is binding on all Catholics. The four Marian Dogmas are: Mary as Mother of God (theotokos), Immaculate Conception, Perpetual Virginity, and Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary; a fifth, Mary as Advocate, Mediatrix and Co-redemptrix is being proposed. 2.The Marian dogma of the…
19th Sunday of the Year, B – August 8, 2021. Readings: 1 Kings 19:4-8; Psalm 33:2-9; Ephesians 4:30-5:2; Gospel – John 6:41-51 Theme: Jesus’ Real Presence! Our first reading reveals how Elijah was tired, hungry and frustrated.In the second reading, St. Paul reminds us that Christ gave “himself up in our place as a fragrant offering…” and counsels all to be patient by forgiving others as God has forgiven us in Christ Jesus.The gospel presents Jesus’ expose on the real presence. Having been fed by the Eucharist, Jesus’ words, “The bread that I shall is my flesh, for the life…
18th Sunday of the Year, B – August 1, 2021. Readings: Exodus 16:2-4,12-15; Ps 78:3.4bc.23-24.25.54(R.24); Ephesians 4:17.20-24; Gospel – John 6:24-35. Theme: Working for the Food that Endures! Sunday Synopsis The first reading recounts how the sons and daughters of Israel rebelled against Moses in the desert. In the second reading, St. Paul insists that our minds must be renewed by a spiritual revolution occasioned by the Eucharist. In the gospel, Jesus promises the bread of life. He shifts the attention of his audience from material bread to the food that lasts forever. We are challenged to feed our souls…
The Catholic Bishop of Bauchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Hilary Dachelem, CMF has lamented that Nigeria is gradually collapsing due to the incompetence of its leaders while urging the President to do the needful. Bishop Dachelem who made the disclosure recently during an interview with journalists at St. John the Evangelist’s Catholic Cathedral, Bauchi also decried the rising spate of killings and abductions across the country. “There were pockets of issues but they were not too overwhelming. Those who were into crime and criminality were very insignificant compared to the entire number but now, I don’t know if majority of…
The existing Social Contract between the citizenry and current power-handlers in Nigeria is supposed to elicit a symbiotic relationship. While it falls on government to ensure security of lives and livelihoods, citizens are expected to pay taxes and collaborate in building a prosperous nation. Expectedly, in every workable democracy, the functions of government include maintaining law and order, ensuring security, providing public services and guiding the community. Where these are in shortfall, it is incumbent on the citizens to hold government accountable. Although linked to Thomas Jefferson, the saying, “In a democracy, the highest office is the office of citizen,”…
17th Sunday of the Year, B – July 24, 2021. Readings: 2 Kings 4:42-44; Ps 144:10-11,15-18; Ephesians 4:1-6; Gospel – John 6:1-15. Theme: Being a Eucharistic People! Summary Lines The first reading reveals how the Prophet Elisha’s fed 100 men with the loaves and ears of grain which were donated by a man from Baal Shalishah and there were leftovers as the Lord promised. In the second reading, St. Paul urges us to bear with one another charitably, in complete selflessness, gentleness and patience while preserving the unity of the Spirit. The gospel reveals that through the generosity of a…
Reactions have been trailing Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah’s July 14, 2021virtualpresentation at the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, Washington DCon the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. During his speech, he also unraveled issues around religious nepotism. In an attempt to analyze the points of divergence between Kukah and the Federal Government (FG), it is crucial to note that the Bishop was only invited, along nationals of other countries, to give his testimony on the ugly state of affairs in the country. Before the US invites great public intellectuals like Bishop Kukah, they have their evidence. Virtual space makes it possible…
16th Sunday of the Year, B – July 17, 2021. Readings: Jeremiah 23:1-6; Ps 22:1-6; Ephesians 2:13-18 & Gospel – Mark 6:30-34. Theme – Shepherds After the Heart of Jesus! Sunday Synopsis In the first reading, judgment is passed on the Shepherds of Israel for failing to care for God’s sheep. In the second reading, St. Paul assures that we who were far apart have been brought closer “by the blood of Christ” whom he refers to as “the peace between us.” In the gospel, Jesus is presented as the true Shepherd who shows compassion for his flock unlike the…
“The life and death of each of us has its influence on others; if we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord, so that alive or dead we belong to the Lord” (Romans 14:7-9). The life and times of Very Rev. Fr. Raymond Hickey, (OSA) who answered the home call in the early hours of July 9th 2021 at the ripe age of 85 testifies to the scripture which says: “The span of our life is seventy years, or if we are strong, eighty; yet at best it is toil and sorrow,…
15th Sunday of the Year, B – July 11, 2021. Readings: Amos 7:12-15; Ps 84:9-14; Ephesians 1:3-14; Gospel – Mark 6:7-13. Theme: Call to Discipleship! Sunday Synopsis The first reading discloses the clash between Amaziah, the Priest and Amos, the Prophet. In the second reading, St. Paul validates the point made by Amos that “before the world was made [God] chose us in Christ…” This is a call “to make his glory praised” in the daily events of our lives. The gospel reading presents us with the call to discipleship and the mandate to preach in pairs. By reminding his…
Call them sycophants, bootlickers or hucksters, political jobbers are part and parcel of politics or any administration. Essentially, they are poster boys for those in power who act for personal gain. Like stringers, they supply the boss with information from real or perceived enemies so as to gain his confidence. Political jobbers are skilled in propaganda as they use every opportunity to remain relevant in every political process. As if they have cast a spell on those in power, these astute political acolytes have a way of convincing power-handlers that they have a profile of all their enemies. The activities…
14th Sunday of the Year, B – July 4, 2021. Readings: Ezekiel 2:2-5; Ps 122:1-5; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 & Gospel – Mark 6:1-6. Theme: Contempt for Prophets! Introduction Beloved in Christ, our liturgy unveils the mandate and burden of prophethood. It discloses the indispensable role of prophets in the society on the one hand and the contempt they face on the other. In fact, it particularly reveals the conspiracy theories prophets have had to deal with but assures that they should not to lose sight of their calling. We shall situate the theme “Contempt for Prophets” around pastoral lessons. Background…
For Catholics and Non-Catholics alike in Nigeria, the 24th June 2021 is a day they would not forget in a hurry. On that day, St. William’s Cathedral, Lafia hosted a mammoth crowd which turned out to witness the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of Most Rev. Dr. David Ajang as the 2nd Catholic Bishop of Lafia Diocese. The presence of the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, His Excellency, Most Rev. Antonio Guido Filippazi as principal consecrator, the immediate past Bishop and administrator of Lafia Diocese and the Archbishop of Jos, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Ishaya Audu and the Metropolitan of the See…
12th Sunday of the Year, B – June 20, 2021. Readings: Job 38:1,8-11; Psalm 106:23-26,28-32; 2 Corinthians 5:14-17 & Gospel – Mark 4:26-34. Theme: ” Be Still…” (Psalm 46:10) Sunday Synopsis In the first reading, Job and his friends focused on the meaning of individual suffering but God revealed that he has the final word. In the second reading, St. Paul discloses that since one man died and rose again, the faithful are invited to live “no longer for themselves” but for him. The gospel discloses how the sea and the wind obeyed Jesus who delivered his disciples who were…
11th Sunday of the Year, B – June 13, 2021. Readings: Ezekiel 17:22-24; Ps 92:1-2.12-13.14-15(R.1a); 2 Corinthians 5:6-10; Gospel – Mark 4:26-34. Theme: Living for Others! The first reading reveals that God would plant a shoot on a very high mountain. In the second reading, St. Paul assures that we live by faith and not by sight and charges Christians to be exiled from the flesh towards desiring to please. Based on the Parables of the Seed and Mustard Seed, the gospel charges Christians to open their lives to the promptings of the spirit so that the Seed spoken…
Recently, Macrotrends, The Premier Research Platform for Long Term Investors gave the current life expectancy for people Nigeria in 2021 as 55.12 years. This indicates a 0.57% increase from 2020. The study also highlighted that while the life expectancy for Nigeria in 2020 was 54.81 years, a 0.58% increase from 2019, that of 2019 was 54.49 years which shows a 0.58% increase from 2018. The life expectancy of any nation touches on security of lives and livelihoods as well as general welfare of the people. The reader would recall how many ordinary Nigerians literally starved to contribute money to buy ticket for…
Homily for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi: Year B – June 6, 2021. Readings: Exodus 24:3-8; Responsorial Psalm Ps 103:1-24,29-31,34; Hebrews 9:11-15; Mark 14:12-16.22-26. Theme: Being Truly A Eucharist People Sunday Synopsis The first reading recalls the Covenant between God and the people of Israel which was sealed with the blood of animals. The writer of the Letter to the Hebrews established that Christ initiated a new covenant not through the blood of goats and bulls but through his blood. The gospel tells the story of the how Jesus ate the Passover with his disciples. It indicates that the bread…
“Nigeria has long teetered on the precipice of failure. But now, unable to keep its citizens safe and secure, Nigeria has become a fully failed state of critical geopolitical concern.” These words from two international think tanks namely, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and the Harvard Kennedy School in the United States of America speak to the heart of the seeming hopeless situation in Nigeria. This disclosure which was made in a researcher by CFR’s Senior Fellow and former US Ambassador to Nigeria, John Campbell and Mr. Robert Rotberg, Founding Director of Harvard Kennedy School’s Programme on Intrastate Conflict…
Being a homily delivered by Fr. Justine DYIKUK during the Parish Day Celebration of St. Mary’s Parish Jimpi, Toro LGA, Bauchi State on 29th May 2021 1. Introduction Beloved in Christ, two years ago, I arrived this parish as a humble servant sent on mission. Since I got here, we have been planning to have our parish day celebration. One thing or the other kept preventing us from realizing this dream. Since the scripture attests to the fact that God’s time is the best (Cf. Proverbs 16:9) and “there is time and season for everything under the earth (Ecclesiastes 3:1),…
Trinity Sunday: Year B – 30th May, 2021. Readings: Deuteronomy 4:32-34; Responsorial Psalm Ps 32:4-6,9,18-20,22; Romans 8:14:17; Gospel Matthew 28:16-20. Theme: The Trinity of Love Sunday Synopsis The first reading reveals a triune God who reigns “in heaven and above as on earth beneath.” In the second reading, St. Paul emphasizes that everyone who is moved by the Spirit is a son of God. He goes on to disclose that the Spirit which God gives is not a spirit of timidity but that which makes us cry “Abba Father!” The Gospel recounts the Great Mission. It reveals that this divine…
Ungoverned spaces are areas where there is weak presence of formal institutions. It is often characterized by lack of formal authority which gives rise to activities of non-state actors who assume power and undermine government and its appellate institutions. The notoriety of criminals on our roads paints a clear picture of neglected, deserted or ungoverned areas across the country. A Senior Political Economy Analyst, Dr.UcheIgwe defines ungoverned spaces “As zones that lie beyond the reach of government and thus pose a significant threat to security and stability. They are often perceived as fertile grounds within which terrorist organisations incubate and…
