The federal government has been tasked to address the excruciating hardship confronting Nigerians, as the wealthy were urged to recognise the presence, show compassion and serve the poor in their midst. The charge was given by Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, at the annual Feast Day celebration of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP), organised by the Lagos Central Council (LCC), recently at Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit, Onireke, Lagos.
Emphasising the importance of serving the poor and the role of SSVP in the Church, Archbishop Martins urged Catholics to emulate Jesus’ example as His ministry was characterised by His concern for the poor and vulnerable in society. The Archbishop encouraged the lay faithful to dedicate a portion of their tithe to support the SSVP’s work in the Church, highlighting the importance of generosity in serving the poor. He urged the Vincentians to grow spiritually and strive for personal holiness, asking them to remain accountable, and not misuse funds intended for the poor.
Speaking on the occasion, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Uche, Chaplain, LCC expressed joy seeing the number of Vincentians gathered to celebrate St. Vincent de Paul, the apostle of charity and father of the poor. Harping on the theme of the event, and noting the excruciating hardship and poverty in the land, the Chaplain said, “We are building through charity, serving in hope and love, we celebrate the lives we touch through acts of charity.” According to him, “We are called to serve the poor, our masters in love, giving them hope and be the voice of the voiceless, defender of the defenseless and hope to the hopeless.” He urged the people to allow the light of Christ and the flame of charity to embrace them so that they will be able to carry out the work with love.
“I’m so happy that we have come together from the 17 Particular Councils to share in the joy and love of togetherness. Our Patron Saint, St. Vincent de Paul will continue to intercede for us and to help us to carry out our mission of evangelisation”, he prayed. He urged the Vincentians not give up nor despair owing to the situation of the country, but to put their trust and hope in Jesus who has promised to be with us even till the end of time. For his part, Bro Anthony Esogbunem, LCC President, said the Vincentians are gathered to rejoice in the spirit of charity and service and to strengthen the bonds that unite them in the noble mission of service.
He urged the people to ensure they feed their souls with the fruits of love, laughter, compassion, kindness, generosity, and gratitude, praying that they renew their dedication to the charity apostolate and get closer together as one Vincentian family. The event has as its theme, “Building through charity: Serving in hope and love, celebrating the lives we touch through acts of charity.”
