A Call to Holiness Gerald Nwogueze, OFM, Cap.

An Article written for Minor Ministers Magazine by the Altar Servers of St. Stephen's Chaplaincy, Nkwelle Ezinaka, Aguleri Diocese. 

Introduction 

Throughout the passages in the scripture, there are a series of familiar stories of God’s call to holiness of life, from the laws to the prophets, culminating in Christ and extending to the apostles and the church. Indeed, the entire people of God are involved in the call and life of holiness by virtue of baptismal consecration. The call to holiness is endless; it is daily and prompt. This is because of God’s mercy and will for man’s redemption and salvation, which predestined us to be his adopted sons through Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:4-6). 

There is no time in history without a purpose; everyone was created good, with an uncommon purpose, and as carriers of divine destinies for greatness. Until the fall, man enjoyed the fullness of blessedness in God’s presence. Yet God did not abandon man to perish in his sins, ignorance, and miseries. He initiated reconciliation with man; he called Abraham our father in faith and elected Israel as his chosen nation; he called Moses and guided him to lead his people out of bondage, making a covenant with them and giving them his laws and statutes; at different points of crisis, judges and prophets of old were raised to redeem the people of Israel and communicate the mind of God to them; priests were appointed to make oblation for sins and other rituals and prayers; and kings were anointed to govern the people and protect them from their enemies. In the fullness of time, God sent his son to be born of David’s line, born of a woman and born under the law, to redeem those under the law so that we might receive adoption to sonship. (Gal 4:4). He was pleased to redeem us in Christ, that all through responding to his call to holiness, we might trace back our path to eternal salvation (Col. 1:19). 

The Church was commissioned to take the good news to the ends of the earth, with the gift of the Holy Spirit as teacher, enabler, and sanctifier. The church, according to the penny catechism, has four marks by which we may know her: she is one, she is holy, she is catholic, and she is apostolic. The life of the church has holiness at its core, and the entire church, both suffering and triumphant, with Christ as head and bridegroom, is united in inspiring, enhancing, encouraging, and sustaining the holiness of the sinful but striving militant holy church. Pope Francis, in his Apostolic Exhortation on The Call to Holiness in Today’s World, sees holiness as “the most attractive face of the church.” To him, we are not alone in the pursuit of holiness. 

The Call, Caller, and Called: An ongoing Invitation 

A call can be seen from different perspectives. Its literal sense could mean a shout or a cry, a signal, or a request for the attention of the caller. Every call, when intended, could be seen to have three ingredients: the call, the caller, and the caller. The call consists of the signal, the message or mission, and aids to the mission. Some calls are mysterious and padded with lots of eventualities, both favorable and otherwise. The biblical call follows some familiar patterns: the call, the response, the mission, and aids to the mission. You can see this in the likes of Abraham, Moses, Samuel, Jeremiah, etc. God, who foresees and masterminds all, calls and puts the called on the path of response. Within the clouds of the unknown, the called find purpose, meaning, and mission in life. Furthermore, Ambrose Agu rightly describes the ongoing nature of God’s call in his Responding to the Divine Call: “God calls; He has never stopped calling men and women to cooperate in his design for salvation... God speaks, but people often do not hear him. People do not often hear him because God speaks in the depths of one’s very being, in a gentle whispering voice." 

A Call to Holiness 

Holiness is often interchanged with perfection in the synoptic gospels; however, I prefer to distinguish the former from the latter. Perfection is being spotless, pure, and impeccable. It is a state in which nothing is lacking—that is, one hundred percent. This is the state of the triumphant church, those who have been purged and found worthy to see God. Holiness, on the other hand, I argue, is an ongoing endeavor towards perfection. What does holiness consist of? To the prophet Michah, it is acting justly, loving tenderly, and walking humbly before God (Mich 6:8). I hold the saying, “No one is perfect, but someone is holy." You cannot be perfect without being holy, just as you can be holy without being perfect. Where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more (Rom. 5:20). As far as we are finite beings and grace abounds for us, holiness consists in rising after falling, making an effort each day to overcome sin, and doing good to others, for God’s will for us is our sanctification (1 Thess 4:3). The summit of holiness is after the example of Christ, thus summarized in the beatitudes. At its core, according to Pope Francis, “holiness is experiencing, in union with Christ, the mysteries of his life. It consists in uniting ourselves to the Lord’s death and resurrection.” Also, according to Pope Benedict XVI in his Insegnamenti VII, “Holiness is nothing other than charity lived to be full... the measure of our holiness stems from the stature that Christ achieves in us, to the extent that, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we model our whole life to His.” 

Everyone is Called to be Holy. 

Each saint, according to Pope Francis, “is a mission, planned by the Father to reflect and embody at a specific moment in history a certain aspect of the gospel”. The call the caller addresses to us is simply, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16; Lev. 11:44). You too are called every one, each in his or her own unique way, as Lumen Gentium 11 puts it. Pope Francis, emphasizing this, cautions that there are saintly examples of the saints that we are only meant to admire but not emulate, so as not to deviate from our unique call or specific path. The important thing is that each believer discerns his or her own path. Are you called to the priesthood and consecrated life? Be holy by living out your commitment with joy. Are you called to serve God in lay ministries as altar servers, churchwarden, lector, choir, pious association and organization, committee, etc.? Be holy by being dedicated and cheerful when serving God. Are you called to the marital life? Be holy by loving and caring for your husband or wife as Christ does his church, bringing up your children in the ways of the Lord. Are you a worker, both public and self-employed? Be holy by laboring with integrity and skill in the service of your brothers and sisters. Are you in a position of authority? Be holy by working for the common good and renouncing personal gain, etc. 

Signs of Holiness in Today’s World 

Today’s world is reeling from one crisis to another, from a global pandemic to economic uncertainties, political and social turmoil, war, and natural disasters, to mention but a few. Coming down to Nigeria with the latest hunger outcry, hardship, insecurity, unemployment, high cost of living, etc. We are saddled with a great sense of anxiety, distrust, and pain, which makes this topic relevant and prompt. This holiness that the Lord calls you and I will grow through small gestures. At the same time, it is not a bed of roses or an easy adventure. Life presents challenges and obstacles, making it a battle and a war worth fighting. This battle consists of constant conversion and a daily effort to be steadfast. There are five signs outlined by Pope Francis, which include: 

Perseverance, Patience, and Meekness: We are called to be counterexamples against the flow of evil. The only way is through the virtues of perseverance, patience, and meekness. 

Joy and Sense of Humor: Saints are happy people even amidst tribulation, persecution, and pain. The effects of charity are joy, and so we are called to be charitable and loving. 

Boldness and Passion: Holiness is not timidity; it is also parrhesia, or courage, which is a seal of the Holy Spirit that testifies to the authenticity of our preaching and faith. 

In Community: Growth in holiness is a journey made with others. When we are apart from others, it is difficult to fight the snares and temptations of the devil, the world, and ourselves. 

In Constant Prayer: Holiness is sustained by prayer and consists of a habitual openness to the transcendent amid the concerns of daily strife and challenges. 

Conclusion 

God wills us to be holy, and this is intrinsically tied to whatever we are or do as a mission, profession, or service. He calls you to a change of heart and constant fidelity to holiness, the only criteria for possessing heaven. Holiness, as simple as it may sound, encompasses all that is good and pleasing to God. It is not limited to Christians. God created everyone and called them good. Everyone is to return to the creator good. I will end this reflection with the words of William Grimbol in his Spirituality for Teens: “Calling is vital to spiritual life. If you fail to follow your calling, you will have failed to be the person God created you to be. You will not be fully real and fully alive.” And the words of St. Augustine: “God who made you without you cannot save you without you.” Dear reader, do you wish to attain holiness? Do you now feel a real desire to be holy? Then go to Christ. The way is encapsulated in the beatitudes (Matt. 5:3–12). 

 

UNITY IN DIVERSITY By; Rev. Sr Chikaodiri Jacinta Aloh. SJGS

 INTRODUCTION 

"If we really listened to our enemies' suffering, we would no longer be enemies."~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ~

1.0 DEFINITION

Unity in Diversity: (A Worthy Journey, Not Just a Desired Outcome). 

Unity in diversity is a very old concept dating back to ancient times in both Eastern and Western old-world cultures. It is an expression of harmony and unity between dissimilar individuals or groups. Many governments and institutions today still hold up this time-honoured concept as a worthy ideal. For example, in 1782 the US Congress adopted the motto E Pluribus Unum, meaning out of many, one. More recently, Unity in Diversity, became the official motto of the European Union in 2000.

In a world in which such terms can evoke diametrically opposed emotional reactions from different groups, it is worth taking a few moments to contemplate a modern-day meaning.

2.0 EXPLICATION OF TERMS

2.1 What is Unity?

First off, the word unity in this phrase does not mean uniformity, universal agreement, or even the mere tolerance of differences. It is not the blending of cultural, ethnic, or ideological differences into one. Instead, the word unity stands for oneness of purpose people pulling together in spite of differences for the greater good. 

Unity in this context hearkens back to the moral in Aesops fable, The Four Oxen and the Lion, which reads as follows: A lion used to prowl about a field in which four oxen used to dwell. Many a time he tried to attack them; but whenever he came near, they turned their tails to warn another, so that whichever way he approached them he was met by the horns of one of them. At last, however, they fell a-quarrelling [sic] among themselves, and each went off to pasture alone in a separate corner of the field. Then the Lion attacked them one by one and soon made an end of all four.

Nonetheless, Unity in the general sense means the state of being united, joined or combined into one. It is a sense of solidarity, community or togetherness among individuals or groups. Unity refers to the state of being united into a single entity where individuals or components work together in harmony

"United we stand, divided we fall"

2.2 What is Diversity?

Diversity in the context of Unity in Diversity does not mean fragmentation. Nor does it mean providing for dissimilar people to coexist in separate camps. Quite the opposite. It is the recognition that beauty and wisdom reveal themselves in diversity that honors the dignity of each unique contributor. Diversity is not confined to affirmative action for the sake of fairness and equality. It is not an end in itself but a means to a higher purpose. In a poignant essay, Kelsey Holmes of the Greenheart Club, writes Diversity is exactly that it is people of different races, religions, nationalities, and communities coming together for a singular purpose.

Holmes goes on to say that Learning about those who are different from you in turn helps you to better understand your own culture and perspective.

2.3 Diversity Makes us Smarter

In an article written for Scientific American, Katherine Phillips makes the case that Diversity Makes Us Smarter. In her premise, she states It seems obvious that a group of people with diverse individual expertise would be better than a homogeneous group at solving complex, non-routine problems. It is less obvious that social diversity should work in the same wayyet the science shows that it does. Phillips recognizes that diversity can be complicated when she observes, What good comes from diversity of race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation? Research has shown that social diversity in a group can cause discomfort, rougher interactions, a lack of trust, greater perceived interpersonal conflict, lower communication, less cohesion, more concern about disrespect, and other problems. So, what is the upside?

The upside can be found in the adage no pain, no gain. In order to change, grow, or innovate, we must first disrupt. We must question our assumptions and beliefs. Diversity gives us the tools to think outside the box.

2.4 Unity in Diversity

Unity in Diversity requires that we find ways to connect in our humanity even when we are divided in our beliefs, opinions, and self-interests. Our humanity is our God-likeness, something we all possess regardless of our differences. We are unique by design, not by an accident of fate.

Admittedly, it takes effort to honor the dignity and humanity of others, particularly when they are unlike us. We must be purposeful about it. We must seek the opportunities and take the time to understand and honor the story behind the uniqueness. This is the premise and process of Dignity Dialogues. Simple tolerance is only the beginning.

Yes, here are some additional aspects of unity in diversity:

Intersectionality: Recognizing how different identities (e.g., race, gender, sexuality) intersect and impact individual experiences.

Equity: Ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for all, addressing systemic inequalities.

Inclusive leadership: Leaders who foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating a sense of belonging.

Cultural intelligence: Understanding and appreciating diverse cultural norms and values.

Diversity of thought: Encouraging diverse perspectives and ideas to drive innovation.

Global citizenship: Recognizing shared humanity and responsibilities across cultures and borders.

Empathy and active listening: Essential skills for building bridges across differences.

Unity in diversity is a continuous journey, requiring effort and commitment to foster inclusive environments

3.0 CONCLUSION

In words attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson, life is a journey, not a destination. Likewise, Unity in Diversity is a journey, not just a desired outcome. It is in the journey that we discover beauty, creativity, and peace. Unity in Diversity brings peace even in our disagreements. It brings the power to solve the

 truly big problems of our time.

Nigeria, which way? By Sr. Maryrose Anurikristi Uche

 

INTRODUCTION

Looking at our current situations in Nigeria, we have no option than to ask this rhetorical question: Nigeria, which way? 

Nigeria as we know, is country blessed by God with rich human and natural resources, yet, one of the poorest countries in the world. What then is our problem since God has richly blessed us? Why are we still in this level of poverty despite all our resources? Are we going to survive this country when we can barely afford basics of life? Questions like these occupies the hearts of Nigerians seeking for answers. Let’s see if we can come up with sorting words that can help us face the current situations wisely and overcome them gradually. 

Foremost, let’s find out what the problems are, because discovering the problem is already a step to its solution. 

MAJOR PROBLEMS OF NIGERIA

Some key reasons why Nigeria, despite its resources has a high poverty rate include:

Poor Leadership: Weak governance, inefficiency, and lack of transparency in government institutions can hinder economic development and exacerbate poverty. Ineffective policies, lack of infrastructure, and inadequate social services can all contribute to the persistence of poverty. Election of unqualified leaders into public offices.

Corruption: Nigeria has a history of corruption at various levels of government and society. And this obstructs economic development and contributes to income inequality. 

High Cost of Living: The cost of everything in the market is nothing to write home about. At times, I wonder how parents with five children are surviving. 

Security Challenges: Nigeria has faced security challenges such as insurgency, ethnic and religious conflicts. These issues have disrupted economic activities, deterred investment, and created instability that affects the livelihoods of many Nigerians.

Population Growth: The high population growth rate can outstrip the capacity of the economy to create enough jobs and opportunities for everyone.

Over Dependence on Oil and Lack of Diversification: Nigeria's economy is heavily reliant on oil exports, which makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices. This dependence can hinder diversification into other sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services which are essential for sustainable and inclusive growth. 

Poor Educational system: Our educational institutions are so corrupt too that education today is in a sorry state. Most people cannot afford quality education and those who have the opportunity to study focus on making good grade and not to solve any problem. Hence, we have many professors yet, our problems sit with us still.  

EFFECTS OF ALL THESE PROBLEMS    

Brain drains: most Nigerians that ought to be instruments of developments are leaving the country in search for greener pastures.

Social Medias wahala: social media is not bad but most often, it is escalating the issue at hand thereby putting much pressure on people.

Poor Parenting 

Quick money-making mentality

Entitlement mentality

POSSIBLE SUGGESTIONS TO NIGERIA CURRENT SITUATION

My suggestion to the way out for the rhetorical question of Nigeria, which way include:

We need to trust and trusting God that everything will be alright someday. 

We need leaders who are humane, empathetic and ready to serve the poor masses (servant leaders), no matter the tribe or religion.

Investing and developing Nigeria from Nigerians in diaspora. 

We need to have positive attitude towards the situation and awakening the giant within us. Stop complaining and seek for solution 

We need skills acquisition schemes from secondary school

Getting two or more sources of income

Conclusion

This current Nigeria situation is a phase that will pass away like a wind someday. Therefore, do not over think yourself or over worry yourself. Try to be happy and be content with the little you have. No matter your situation, there is someone praying to be like you, hence, your situation isn’t the worst. Moreover, there is a future you have not seen yet. Please, don’t cut short your life because of the phase, it will pass. Remember, you are not in this alone, everyone is walking with their crosses, so, do not add to what people are going through. Be kind to people with your words and attitude please. This too shall pass!