OKPANAM/Nigeria: Political and community leaders have been urged to remain connected to the realities of the people they serve rather than becoming detached by the privileges and status that come with public office.
The call was made by Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Patrick Chibuzor, during his homily at the Sunday Mass held at the Catholic Mass Centre, Maris Schools, Amachai, Okpanam, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Chibuzor said leadership was more effective when those in positions of authority understood the everyday challenges faced by ordinary people and responded to them with empathy and practical solutions.
Using the image of a shepherd and his flock, the priest said leaders must remain close enough to the people to understand their concerns, noting that detachment from the community could make it difficult for those in authority to appreciate the problems confronting citizens.
He urged leaders to make themselves accessible and pay closer attention to the conditions under which people live, stressing that genuine leadership should be measured by its impact on the lives of those being served.
The priest also turned his attention to relationships within the church, cautioning members against gossip, backbiting and attacks on priests and other church leaders.
He urged parishioners to be careful about their words and actions, particularly when disagreements arise, and encouraged them to protect the unity of the Christian community.
Chibuzor said the strength of society was also closely linked to the quality of family life, charging parents to take greater responsibility for the upbringing, discipline and moral development of their children.
He said values cultivated within the family could influence the character of the wider society, making responsible parenting an important part of building a stable and peaceful community.
The priest further encouraged the congregation to deepen their Christian faith and rely on prayer when confronted with difficulties.
He reminded the faithful of the biblical teaching to ask, seek and knock, urging them to approach God with faith and to openly profess their belief.
He also encouraged members of the church to participate in evangelisation by starting with people within their immediate circles, saying personal relationships could provide an effective avenue for introducing others to Christian teachings.
The Mass also featured the inauguration of the newly elected executive committee of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of the Mass Centre.
The inaugurated officers are 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 I; and Mrs Faith Ekakitie, Provost II.
The celebration also featured a thanksgiving service by parishioners, bringing together the spiritual activities of the Mass and the formal commencement of the new CWO executive’s tenure.
