29/06/2025
MASS REPORT - SUNDAY 29TH JUNE 2025
THEME: Faithful Witnesses and Courageous Leadership in a Troubled World: Lessons from Saints Peter and Paul
VENUE: St. Mathias Catholic Project, Selagi
PREACHER: Rev. Fr. Linus Akase
FIRST READING: Timothy 4:6–8,17–18
GOSPEL READING: Matthew 16:13–19
The Mass at St. Mathias Catholic Project Selagi, presided over by Rev. Fr. Linus Akase, was a celebration marked by deep reflection, challenge, and hope, centered around the lives and sacrifices of Saints Peter and Paul—the twin pillars of the early Church.
The first reading, from 2 Timothy 4:6–8,17–18, emphasized St. Paul's declaration of a life poured out in service. Fr. Akase explained Paul's assurance of victory after a faithful life, noting his confident words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race...” Paul, though persecuted, was upheld by God, who empowered him to proclaim the Gospel fully to the Gentiles.
The Gospel reading focused on Jesus’ identity and Peter’s confession of faith. Christ affirmed Peter as the rock on which He would build His Church, entrusting him with the keys to the Kingdom. Fr. Linus explored this passage to explain Peter’s divine appointment as the first Pope and the enduring authority of the Church, despite trials.
HOMILY SUMMARY
Fr. Akase began his sermon by describing the solemn joy of the feast being celebrated, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. He paid tribute to their sacrificial contributions to the growth of the Church, describing their spiritual and physical journeys with passion and clarity.
ST. PETER, a humble fisherman turned apostle, was identified as the foundational rock of the Church. Jesus changed his mission from catching fish to “fishing men,” making him a spiritual shepherd. Fr. Akase traced Peter’s transformation and courage, including his leadership at the first Church council and his ultimate martyrdom in Rome. The red vestment of the day, he noted, signified his blood shed for the Church.
ST. PAUL, a former persecutor of Christians, was equally zealous after his conversion. Fr. Linus recalled how Paul endured shipwrecks, imprisonments, beatings, and hunger, all in tireless service of Christ. Despite his achievements, Paul referred to himself as “A SERVANT,” “THE LEAST OF THE APOSTLES,” and “UNWORTHY” a mark of true humility and dedication.
Fr. Akase then drew a sharp contrast between the sacrificial leadership of the saints and the corruption and cowardice seen in many modern leaders:
“Our leaders today are not ready to sacrifice for their people. No wonder we have insecurity, bad roads, hunger, and a collapsing educational system.”
He lamented the betrayal of the youth, questioning the promise that “children are the leaders of tomorrow” in a society where elders cling to power, sometimes falsifying their ages.
But the message wasn’t one of despair. Fr. Akase challenged everyone, fathers, mothers, students, and church workers to lead by example, just as Peter and Paul did. He urged Christians to embrace their responsibilities, whether in families, schools, or communities.
He emphasized that God's protection is always near to those who serve faithfully, citing how God sent an angel to free Peter from prison. He linked this miracle to the many “prisons” people suffer in today: sickness, unemployment, poverty. Yet, hope remains, and God will deliver those who persevere in faith.
CALL TO ACTION
Fr. Linus concluded by calling for:
1. Courageous witness, especially in difficult times.
2. Selfless leadership, at home, in the Church, and in the nation.
3. Faithful service, in all roles, whether visible or unseen.
4. Prayers for our leaders, that they may lead with compassion and integrity.
Conclusion
The Mass ended with fervent prayers that the spirit of Saints Peter and Paul may inspire all Christians to remain steadfast in their calling, never abandoning their God-given assignments, and always ready to speak truth, serve others, and sacrifice for the common good.
Abeen Sekegh Sylvester,
SA on Media and Publicity,
Rev. Fr Emmanuel Asue.
07060717161.
