A Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Patrick Chibuzor, has called on political and community leaders to step down from their exalted positions and closely identify with the everyday realities of the masses.
He emphasized that effective leadership requires a deep, empathetic connection with the plight of the common man.
Delivering a Homily during the celebration of the Holy Mass on Sunday at the Catholic Mass Centre, Maris Schools, Amachai, Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, Fr. Chibuzor noted that many leaders fail to meet public expectations simply because they remain detached from the daily struggles of ordinary citizens.
Quoting a popular pastoral sentiment, he stressed that “a true shepherd must smell like the sheep” to understand their grievances and proffer meaningful solutions.
The clergyman also addressed internal church harmony, warning parishioners against gossip, backbiting, and unjustified attacks on Priests and church leaders.
He cautioned the faithful to remain mindful of their utterances and conduct, particularly within the House of God.
Focusing on the family unit as the foundation of a stable nation, the Priest urged parents to take full responsibility for the moral upbringing and discipline of their children, noting that a well-ordered family environment naturally translates into a better and safer society.
He emphasised that “Jesus does not discriminate against anybody; Jesus is the solution to all problems, rely on Him, He does not fall.
“You must always look up to Jesus Christ, always remember to call on Jesus; if you need the help of God, you must learn to call on God, knock and it will be opened, seek and you shall find.
“There is power in the tongue, so, ask, open your mouth and proclaim.
“Start converting people to Christianity with those who are close to you, conversion is from the known to the unknown, it is easier to convince those who are familiar to you and with time, more persons will be converted because of those you have converted.”
The Priest during the celebration, inaugurated the recently elected executive committee of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of the Mass Centre.
Those inaugurated included Mrs Esther Omoko (President), Mrs Regina Izueke (Vice President), Mrs Edna Emeni (Secretary), Mrs Anthonia Chiemeke (Assistant Secretary), Mrs Charity Ejakpomovi (Financial Secretary), Mrs Chinasa Onyebuchi (Treasurer), Mrs Eucharia Nweze (Public Relations Officer), Mrs Ngozi Okolo (Provost 1), Mrs Faith Ekakitie (Provost 2).
The Holy Mass also featured thanksgiving by Parishioners.
