The order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM) has been urged to rise and defend the Christian faith, especially the Catholic church in the face of various security challenges.
The order was also encouraged to continue to champion the call for peaceful coexistence and reconciliation in the country amidst cries of marginalisation by different groups.
Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, made the call during his sermon at a thanksgiving service held by the KSM at the Veritas University Abuja, which was part of activities lined up for the KSM national convention held in Abuja.
The bishop who described the knights as preachers urged them to continue in the struggle to build a better world, and heed the gospel of Christ to watch and pray, even amid insecurity
“As priests, we need helping hands and you are there. You are all to be Catholic of outstanding integrity, of exemplary character. We should purify ourselves continuously so we can see the face of God at the end.
“When we purify ourselves, we purify Nigeria. Nigeria is sadly regarded as one of the most corrupt countries in the world. We must work towards peaceful coexistence and reconciliation in this country. Many Groups feel marginalised, we are so polarised whether on ethnic or religious grounds.
“This nation is great. It should be able to provide food for its citizens. This nation should be able to provide proper healthcare to prevent high rates of maternal mortality.
“This nation can provide a quality education where lecturers do not have to go on incessant strikes. Many youths are fleeing this country for greener pastures. This shouldn’t happen,” he said.
He said the life of courage and peace of a KSM should be an encouragement to contemporary Nigerian, urging them to continue in the spirit of handwork and selflessness to take Nigeria out of the current ridicule.
“The attack on our faith is on. Use all you have to defend the Christian faith. Use all you have to defend the Catholic Church. You are called as Knight as witnesses and promoters of truth
“In these days your light must shine. And like Jesus, you must go about doing good. Being a Knight is a call to service and not to be served,” he said.
