In Christmas 2024 Message, Catholic Bishop in Nigeria Urges Christians to “embrace others in love, peace, reconciliatio

Emmanuel, God Is Still Here

In his message, Bishop Badejo reminds Christians of the unchanging significance of Christmas, celebrating the birth of Jesus as an event that forever transformed history.

“Emmanuel, God is still with us,” he says, encouraging believers to find joy in the promise of salvation. 

He laments, however, that the joy of Christmas has been overshadowed for many by wars, famine, disasters, and oppression, leaving millions in pain and despair.

“Christmas, for so many people in the world today no longer means joy and jubilation. Millions of people, caught up in the conflicts, wars, famine, disasters, deprivations, and crimes ravaging many parts of the world know only pain and death,” the Catholic Church leader says.

He continues, “Too many people are suffering and are sad because too little people get everything while too many people get nothing. Hope now has little meaning for many and there is no joy in places where hypocritical leaders, chosen to bring relief and comfort, turn rather into cruel, sadistic despots, oppressors, and exploiters.”

He says, “Humans are thus departing from God’s holy plans.  Science and technology, given by God to man to dominate the earth with, are largely made tools of exploitation and marginalization by only a few elites with no consideration for justice or moderation. “

Bishop Badejo explains, “The advent of Jesus through the family is betrayed by the discord and division in families and communities all around.  How can we proclaim a feast for the lord of life when all around we tolerate and cause the death and destruction of so many innocent children and defenseless people? Modern, woke Christmas which focuses on trees, bright lights, costly presents, and fine dinners will not give joy to the world if Jesus is not at the center of it all.” 

“He is the reason for the season, the rejoicing, the eating, the drinking, and the singing. If we never needed the Lord before we sure do need him now. For in Him alone is our peace,” he adds.

Let Jesus In 

The Local Ordinary of Oyo Diocese calls for a return to the essence of Christmas by placing Jesus at the center of celebrations. 

He echoes Pope Francis’ call to hold onto the dream of a better world and to bring Christ back into daily life.

 “Only by emulating Jesus’ compassion and love can we heal our ailing humanity,” he says.

The member of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication since his appointment in December 2021 goes on to describe the symbols of Advent—hope, peace, joy, and love—as reminders of what Christ offers. 

He urges the people of God to “let Jesus’ light shine into the dark corners of hypocrisy, deceit, and selfishness, stating that genuine love from Jesus remains the world’s greatest source of hope.”

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Take Salvation Personally

Bishop Badejo calls on Christians to take personal responsibility for their faith and actions. 

He also urges leaders to follow the example of the wise men, acting with justice and righteousness to create a more equitable and peaceful world.

“Jesus overturns all we know about power, wealth, and influence,” he said, pointing to Christ’s humility as a model for all. 

The Nigerian Catholic Bishop also invites Christians to embrace the weak, the poor, and the oppressed, emphasizing that the joy of Christmas lies in service to others.