Cleric Tasks Leaders On Humility, Selfless Service

The Administrator, St Theresa’s Catholic Diocese, Nsukka, Rev. Fr. Anselm Asogwa, has urged leaders in the country to emulate Jesus Christ’s teachings of service and humility.

Asogwa gave the charge in Nsukka on Sunday in a homily to mark Palm Sunday.

According to him, Jesus’ humility and selfless service made him to die on the cross for the salvation of mankind.

“Jesus showed humility even unto death for the benefit of humanity, not minding he was mocked and shamed, he still asked God to forgive those who tortured and killed him.

“It is unfortunate that the same people who were shouting Hosanna on Palm Sunday were the same people who demanded that Jesus should be crucified.

“Today, the same politicians who will beg for votes of the electorate during elections are the same people who deprive the masses of what is due to them. Until our political leaders learn how to render selfless service to the people, the gap between the rich and poor will continue to widen,” Asogwa said.

The clergyman said that it was only a leader with integrity who would have the boldness to deal with corrupt officials no matter whose ox was gored.

He said that the triumphant entry of Christ into Jerusalem, which led to the festival of Easter Sunday, showed that whoever believed in Him would be victorious no matter the obstacles

“This week is considered the most holy of all the weeks during the church year, Christians should deeply ponder on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ during this sacred period.

“If we cannot forgive those who offended us and make peace with them, our prayers and fasting during this Lenten period will be meaningless and useless,” he said.

The Palm Sunday Mass started with a procession of more than 5,000 Catholic faithful, holding palm fronds, singing and proclaiming Jesus Christ as everlasting king and messiah of the world.