Mamza to Yola diocese pastoral agents: Dedicate yourself to the service of God, mankind
The Catholic Bishop of Yola Catholic Diocese, Most Reverend Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza, has called on pastoral agents to rededicate themselves to the service of God and mankind in order address not only spiritual needs of the church but to foster the overall development of its members.
The Bishop who made the plea while delivering a keynote address entitled “Mobilizing Pastoral Agents for Structural and Human Development in Yola Diocese” at the general assembly of the church noted that human development is the major catalyst for socio economic development of every society.
RELATED NEWS
2nd edition of Dami Mamza football competition kicks off
Jimeta deanery wins first edition of Bishop Dami Mamza football competition
Catholic communications week: Bishop Mamza frowns at monetization of the church
“I am delighted and feel privileged to give this keynote address today on a topic of critical importance at this General Assembly for the year 2024 on the theme: “Mobilizing Pastoral Agents for Structural and Human Development in Yola Diocese.” As we gather here, we reflect on our collective mission to serve not only the spiritual needs of our community but also to foster holistic development—spiritual, social, and economic,” he said.
He noted that pastoral agents play crucial roles in modern church encompassing all areas of human endeavor like building the foundation of the church’s development, and providing the leadership needed for the growth of the church community.
“Pastoral agents—priests, deacons, religious sisters and brothers, lay ministers, volunteers and the whole laity —are the lifeblood of our Church’s mission. They are the hands and feet of Christ, reaching out to meet the diverse needs of our congregation and the broader society. Their role extends beyond the sanctuary, touching every aspect of human life.
“To effectively mobilize these agents for structural and human development, we must first recognize the multifaceted nature of their work. They provide spiritual guidance, educational opportunities, healthcare, social services, and community development.
This holistic approach ensures that the Church remains a beacon of hope and a source of comprehensive support,” he said.
He also urged the pastoral agents to work seamlessly to address structural development within the Church and create robust frameworks that support the church community which include enhancing physical infrastructure such as churches, schools, hospitals, and pastoral center, as well as strengthening organizational capacity through effective leadership.
“Investing in training and professional development for pastoral agents is essential. By equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to address contemporary challenges, we enable them to serve more effectively. Programs in theology, social work, education, healthcare, and community development are crucial for their growth and the growth of the Church.
“Human development is at the heart of our Christian mission. The Church’s commitment to nurturing the whole person—spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and physically—is rooted in the teachings of Christ. Our pastoral agents play a pivotal role in this by offering pastoral care, counseling, education, and advocacy.
“Education is a cornerstone of human development. By establishing and supporting schools, we empower individuals with knowledge and skills that can transform their lives and communities. Our educational programs must emphasize moral and ethical values, fostering a sense of responsibility and service.
‘Healthcare initiatives are equally vital. Through clinics, hospitals, and health education programs, pastoral agents address the physical well-being of our communities. In doing so, they embody the healing ministry of Jesus, offering compassion and care to those in need.
“The Church must also be a prophetic voice for social justice, advocating for the rights and dignity of all people.
Pastoral agents are called to engage in social justice initiatives, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination. By standing in solidarity with the marginalized and oppressed, they embody the Church’s commitment to the common good and the inherent dignity of every human being.
‘Our pastoral agents can collaborate with community organizations, government agencies, and other faith-based groups to create a more just society. They can facilitate programs that provide job training, financial literacy, and legal assistance, helping individuals to become self-sufficient and active contributors to their communities,” he said.
While advocating the mobilization of resources and building partnerships by pastoral agents to strengthen structural and human development Mamza said the Church must leverage its assets—human, financial, and material—to support these efforts.
“Fundraising such as Cathedraticum, Bazaar, Tithes, donations etc play a crucial role in sustaining our initiatives. Building partnerships with non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and businesses can enhance our capacity to serve. These collaborations allow us to pool resources, share expertise, and create more comprehensive and effective programs. By working together, we can achieve greater impact and reach a wider audience.
“Empowering the laity is essential for the Church’s mission. Lay members bring diverse talents and perspectives that can enrich our pastoral work. By involving them in decision-making processes, ministry activities, and leadership roles, we create a more inclusive and dynamic Church.
“Community involvement is also crucial. Encouraging parishioners to participate in volunteer programs, community service projects, and advocacy campaigns fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to the Church’s mission. This grassroots engagement strengthens the bonds within our community and amplifies our collective efforts which can help in the Church’s self-sustainability,” he maintained.