Unitatis Media (2025)

16/08/2025

HOMILY FOR THE 20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)

Theme: "THE FIRE JESUS CAME TO BRING – A REVOLUTION OF LOVE"

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In today’s Gospel, Jesus declares: “I have come to set the world on fire, and how I wish it were blazing already!” At first, these words sound alarming. Fire can burn and destroy, but fire also purifies, gives light, and brings warmth.

For us in daily life—whether farmers clearing the bush, students seeking knowledge, parents raising children, traders struggling with honesty in business, or workers standing against corruption—fire represents transformation. It changes everything it touches.

Jesus came with such a fire: not a destructive fire, but the fire of God’s love, the fire of truth, the fire of justice and peace. His fire burns away hypocrisy, selfishness, and sin, and prepares us for new life in God’s kingdom.

But Jesus is very clear—this fire may disturb false peace. Standing for truth may cause division in families or communities. Following Christ may make us unpopular or misunderstood. Yet His fire purifies and builds a better world.

TAKE-HOME MESSAGES:

● Jesus Is Clear About His Mission – He is not vague. He came to set our hearts ablaze with truth and love, even if it challenges us.

● The Fire of Christ Is Love – It is not hatred or violence, but unconditional love that forgives, heals, and uplifts everyone.

● The Fire Builds Unity and Justice – Jesus’ fire demands fairness in our homes, schools, workplaces, markets, and governance. It refuses corruption, oppression, or division.

● The Fire Calls for a Revolution of the Heart – A kingdom revolution that begins inside us, transforming how we treat our neighbors, how we work, how we speak, and how we live.

CONCLUSION

Beloved friends, just as fire changes everything it touches, so must Christ change us completely—our thoughts, our words, our families, our community, and our nation.

Let us allow His fire to burn in us so that we may become witnesses of love, peace, and justice.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, set our hearts on fire with your Spirit. Purify us from sin and selfishness. Make us light in the darkness and builders of your kingdom of love, unity, justice, and peace. Amen.

© Fr. Cyriacus Kamai

16/08/2025

CWO MEMBERS CELEBRATE SOLEMNITY OF ASSUMPTION WITH NOBILITY

The Catholic Women Organization, CWO, of St Augustine Catholic Church Jalingo have celebrated the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven with much nobility.

The celebration started with a Holy Mass celebrated by their Parish Priest, Very Rev Fr Innocent Daloba in the evening of 15-8-2025.
In his Homily, Rev Fr Innocent Daloba tasked the members of the CWO to always seek the assistance of Mary through praying the Holy Rosary and also willingness to preserve for the sake of Christ Her Son.
The Cleric enumerated the virtues exhibited by Mary to include obedience, humility, love and peace. He went on to charge all CWO members to do likewise so as to obtain God's blessings and favours.

Earlier, the members were engaged in paper presentations pertaining the doctrine of the Assumption of Mary into heaven.

The celebration will continue on Sunday with a robust Thanksgiving Mass.

May God bless and increase the faith in our Mothers through Christ our Lord, Amen.

14/08/2025

HOMILY – SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY 2025

Theme: Mary, First Fruit of Redemption and Our Sure Hope

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today the Church lifts her gaze to heaven and rejoices: the Mother of our Lord, the humble Virgin of Nazareth, has been taken body and soul into heavenly glory. This is not a poetic wish — it is a truth the Church has cherished from the earliest days.

In the East, Christians celebrated her Dormition — her peaceful “falling asleep” and entrance into glory. In the West, we called it her Assumption — the taking up of Mary into heaven. And in 1950, Pope Pius XII solemnly confirmed this ancient faith: the one who bore the Author of Life could not see the corruption of the grave.

This feast tells us two things right away: God is faithful to His promises, and heaven is our true home.

1. Mary in God’s Saving Plan

From the beginning, Scripture whispers her name. In Genesis 3:15, after the fall of Adam and Eve, God promises that the seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head. Mary is that woman.

Where Eve doubted, Mary believed. Where Eve’s “No” brought death, Mary’s “Yes” brought Life Himself into the world. She became the Ark of the New Covenant, carrying not stone tablets or manna, but Jesus — the Living Word, the Bread of Life, and the Eternal High Priest.

And she stayed faithful to the very end. At Calvary, she stood at the foot of the Cross, sharing in her Son’s suffering, and in that moment, Jesus gave her to us as our mother: “Behold your mother” (John 19:27).

The Assumption is God’s final seal upon her mission — the one who shared in her Son’s sufferings now shares fully in His glory.

2. Mary in Our Daily Lives

The Assumption is not just about Mary’s reward — it is also about our hope.

She is a mother who intercedes for us. She is alive in heaven, close to Jesus, bringing our prayers before Him.

She is a model of faith — trusting God’s word without knowing all the details.

She is a sign of our future — what God did for Mary, He desires to do for all His faithful children.

She is a reminder of our dignity — our bodies are not disposable; they are temples of the Holy Spirit, destined for resurrection.

When life feels heavy, when hope feels distant, we can look at Mary and say: If God was faithful to her, He will be faithful to me.

3. Living the Message of the Assumption

To honour Mary, we don’t just praise her — we imitate her.

Let her faith inspire us to trust God when the way is unclear.

Let her humility remind us that God works wonders in those who make themselves small before Him.

Let her charity move us to act quickly in love, as she did when she went in haste to help Elizabeth.

Let her perseverance keep us near to Jesus in joy and in pain.

4. Take-Home Word

Mary’s Assumption is a mirror of our destiny. She shows us that holiness is possible, heaven is real, and God keeps His promises. Where she has gone, we are invited to follow.

Prayer:

Lord God, you lifted the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, into heavenly glory. Through her intercession, draw our hearts to the things above, keep us faithful in trial, and bring us one day to share in the joy of your saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

©Fr. Cyriacus Kamai

12/08/2025

CADET HOLDS LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP

The Catholic Cadet Organization of Nigeria, CCON, Jalingo Diocese, has held a 2 day Leadership workshop, which began from 7th-9th August, 2025, and was held at Holy Trinity Pastoral Area Nyabunkaka, Jalingo.

The workshop witnessed a massive turnout from the various levels of leadership of the CCON, which includes the parish, deanery, and diocesan levels.

There were present at the event various experts who delivered enthused papers that resonate with the duty and activities of the Catholic Cadet.

The Diocesan Chaplain of CCON, Rev Fr Gabriel Alilu, was full of thanks to the participants and the presenters, and he went on to encourage all present to be true and faithful catholics first and their leadership skills will automatically show forth.

May the Lord, who is the ultimate security of all, bless the efforts of the Catholic Cadet in the Diocese, and keep His Church protected. Amen.

09/08/2025

JDPC VISITS LAU/KARIM LAMIDO COMMUNITIES, DISTRIBUTES RELIEF MATERIALS

The Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) visited the Lau and Karim Lamido community on the 8th of August 2025, and distributed relief materials to the Internally Displaced.

In attendance was the coordinator of JDPC, Rev Fr. Clement Ignatius Tiba alongside his program manager, Michael Patrick, the Coordinator of Migrants and Refugees Unit in the Diocese, Rev Fr. Collins Godwin Dossa, the parish priest of Holly Family Karim Lamido, Rev Fr. Jediel John, the parish priest of St. Patrick Lau, Fr Abraham Ajov CSSP, alongside Hon. Comrade. Peter Julius Lau, the Commissioner of Rural and Urban Development, and the staff of Taraba SEMA, Benjamin Bala.

In his remark, the Coordinator, Rev Fr. Clement Tiba told the Displaced to take the gesture as an act of concern, and make do with the little that was brought for their relief. He also encouraged them to be prayerful and hopeful that a day will come when all these will pass away.

Rev Fr. Collins Dossa, in his own speech, encouraged the people to give thanks to God in all situations and should be people of peace as the Church keeps praying for them.

The Commissioner of Rural and Urban Development, Comrade Peter Julius Lau was really thankful to the Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev Michael Hammawa and the Church for the support, and added that the Church has shown that the wellbeing of the State does not only rely on the Government, and he called on other Non-Governmental Organizations to also come in with their support.

Rev Fr. Jediel also added that peace should be embraced by the people of Lau/Karim community and they all should pray for peace.

In conclusion, the vote of thanks was given by one of the beneficiaries, Mr Thomas Ayuba, who thanked the Bishop of Jalingo Diocese for the gesture and gift and asked the Church to continue to pray for them and for peace in their community.

May the peace of Christ reign all over the State. Amen.

09/08/2025

HOMILY FOR THE 19TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – YEAR C

Theme: "Stay Awake, Stay Ready, Stay Faithful"

Readings: Wisdom 18:6-9; Psalm 33:1, 12, 18-20, 22; Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19; Luke 12:32-48

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Life shows us every day that being prepared makes all the difference.
A farmer who clears his field early and plants at the right time will smile at harvest.
A mother who prepares food before the children return from school brings joy to her home.
A trader who keeps watch over her goods avoids loss.
A soldier who stays alert survives the night watch.

In the same way, Jesus tells us today:
“Be dressed for action and keep your lamps burning… for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Lk 12:35, 40).

This call to stay awake and be ready is not just about the end of the world—it is about how we live each day. Every morning is a gift from God, and every day is a test. How we live today decides how ready we are for whatever tomorrow brings—whether it is blessing, trial, or our final journey to meet the Lord.

What Does Readiness Look Like?

In daily life:
The careful farmer watches the weather and weeds his farm.
The good student reads his books even when no one is watching.

In our faith:
A Christian who prays daily, forgives quickly, and helps the needy is always ready.

In our priorities:
Jesus warns us not to live only for money, fame, and property, forgetting the treasures that last forever—love, mercy, prayer, and faithfulness.

But there is one danger even worse than weakness—neglect.
Jesus says the servant who knows what to do but ignores it will be punished more severely (Lk 12:47-48).
A soul can be lost not only by doing evil, but also by refusing to do good.

How Do We Stay Ready?

1. Keep your lamp burning – Let prayer, the Bible, and the sacraments keep your faith alive.

2. Live with urgency – Forgive now, help now, love now. Tomorrow is not promised.

3. Be faithful in small things – Care for your family, do your work honestly, and share what you have. God sees every act done with love.

Take-Home Message

✅ Readiness is a way of life, not a last-minute rush.
✅ Heavenly treasures last longer than any wealth on earth.
✅ Neglect is a silent thief of grace—act today!
✅ What you choose today shapes where you will spend eternity.

Concluding Prayer

Lord Jesus, You have called us to live each day with open eyes and ready hearts.
Keep us awake in prayer, faithful in service, and joyful in hope.
When You come—whether in the quiet of night or in the brightness of day—
may You find us working for Your kingdom and ready to enter Your joy.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

©Fr. Cyriacus Kamai

09/08/2025

YOUNG MISSIONARIES URGED TO EMBRACE FAITH AND DISCIPLINE AT DIOCESAN HCA CONGRESS IN MAYO DASSA

The Holy Childhood Association (HCA) Diocesan Mission Congress was held at St. Justina’s Parish, Mayo Dassa, drawing together children from across the Catholic Diocese for a day of reflection, celebration, and spiritual renewal.

The Opening Mass for the Congress was held on the 8th of August 2025. The Mass was presided by Rev. Fr. Abraham G. Yahaya, who is the Diocesan Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS),

In his Homily, Fr Abraham urged the HCA members to open their hearts and commit to lifestyles that would build them spiritually and morally. He cautioned them against stubbornness and societal vices, encouraging the children to grow in holiness and virtue. Drawing inspiration from the life of Saint Dominic—whose feast was celebrated on same day, and who is traditionally known for promoting the Rosary, Fr. Yahaya reminded them of the power of the Rosary and urged them to pray it daily as a tool for personal and communal transformation.

Fr. Yahaya emphasized that, as members of the Holy Childhood Association, the children are called to boldly express their faith wherever they find themselves. He prayed for God’s blessings upon children around the world and reaffirmed that the future of the Church lies in the hands of young believers who live out their missionary commitment with zeal and faithfulness.

Speaking at the event, the Diocesan HCA Coordinator, Sr. Shima Juliet (IJ), described the convention as a unique opportunity for the children to reflect on their mission, values, and vision as young missionaries. She expressed profound gratitude to the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Charles M. Hammawa (in absentia), for his unwavering support of the Holy Childhood Association and prayed for divine wisdom as he continues to shepherd the flock entrusted to him.

Highlights of the opening ceremony included a vibrant match pass by the Catholic Cadet and HCA members, a welcome address by the HCA coordinator, and a symbolic renewal of the missionary commitment by the children—fondly called "the little flowers in the garden of the Lord."

The Holy Childhood Association, which began in the 19th century, continues to nurture young Catholics into faithful missionaries through prayer, service, and devotion to the teachings of Christ.

May God bless all the children in HCA, and all over the world. Amen.

05/08/2025

HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD – YEAR C

Theme:
"Listen to Him – The Glory Beyond the Cross"

Readings:

1st Reading: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97

2nd Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-19

Gospel: Luke 9:28b-36

Beloved in Christ,
Today, the Church celebrates the glorious Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord, a moment of divine revelation where Jesus unveils His heavenly glory to three of His apostles—Peter, James, and John—on the mountaintop. It is a feast full of light, identity, hope, and divine instruction.

Why is this moment so important that it is one of the few feasts celebrated even on a Sunday? Because it speaks to who Jesus truly is, and to who we are called to become through Him.

1. What is the Transfiguration?

The word Transfiguration means a complete change in form or appearance into a more beautiful or spiritual state. In Luke 9:28-36, we hear how Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray. And while praying, His face changes, His clothes become dazzling white, and Moses and Elijah appear, speaking with Him about His departure—His Passion and death in Jerusalem.

A cloud overshadows them, and the voice of the Father echoes:
“This is my Son, the Chosen One; listen to Him.”

2. The Meaning and Symbolism

Jesus reveals His divine nature: Though fully human, Christ is also fully divine. The Transfiguration allows the apostles to glimpse His heavenly glory and to strengthen their faith before the scandal of the Cross.

Moses and Elijah represent the Law and the Prophets. Their presence confirms that Jesus fulfills the entire Old Testament.

The cloud signifies the presence of God, just like at Mount Sinai.

The Father's voice identifies Jesus as the beloved Son and commands us to “Listen to Him.” This echoes the Baptism of Jesus and reinforces His authority as the divine teacher and Savior.

The mention of His “departure” (Greek: exodus) points us back to the Old Testament exodus and forward to His Passion, which leads to our liberation from sin.

3. The Significance for Us Today

Encouragement in trials: Like the disciples, we all face moments of fear, doubt, and suffering. The Transfiguration reminds us that beyond the Cross is glory. It encourages us not to give up, especially when the journey gets dark.

We are called to transformation: As St. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:18, “We are being transformed into His image from one degree of glory to another.” The Christian life is a journey of ongoing conversion and sanctification.

Listen to Jesus: In a noisy world of distractions, ideologies, and false teachings, God’s command is clear: Listen to Jesus. Not just with our ears, but with our lives. His words are truth, His path is life.

4. Take-Home Message

a. Faith is not built only in the valley but also on the mountain.
Take time for prayer, silence, and listening to God. The apostles saw the glory because they followed Jesus up the mountain.

b. Do not fear the cross.
The road of discipleship involves sacrifice. But suffering in Christ leads to resurrection and eternal glory.

c. Seek transformation.
We must allow the Holy Spirit to transfigure our thoughts, speech, and actions. Do people see the light of Christ in you?

d. Be witnesses of the glory.
Peter says in the second reading, “We were eyewitnesses of His majesty.” Today, the world needs witnesses of hope, holiness, and truth.

Dear friends, the Transfiguration is not a fairy tale or a dream. It is a powerful glimpse of reality—a reminder that heaven is real, that suffering is temporary, and that Jesus is truly the Son of God. The same Jesus who stood in glory on the mountain also walks with us in the valley.

As we continue this Eucharistic celebration, may we behold Christ in the breaking of bread, and may our hearts burn with a desire to follow Him faithfully, until we too are “transfigured” into His glory.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus,
You revealed Your glory on the mountain
to strengthen Your disciples for the road of the Cross.
Reveal Yourself to us today.
Strengthen us in trials.
Transform us by Your grace.
And teach us to listen to Your voice always.
Amen.

© Fr. Cyriacus Kamai

03/08/2025

MR SAMUEL JAURO THANKS GOD AT 50

It was a period of thanksgiving of amazing grace to God for Mr Samuel Jauro who processed to the Altar on Sunday at Holy Family Parish Kofai for the gift of life and for clocking 50 years.

With joy and smiles, amidst family and friends, Mr Samuel who is a dedicated parishioner in Kofai, celebrated his 50th birthday, and acknowledged that it can only be God who has allowed him the privilege of being born into the world, and celebrating this number of years in the world.

We wish him all the grace and blessings that he needs as he trudges on in this life. May God be his providence and solace. Amen.

02/08/2025

BISHOP'S UNITY CUP ENDS IN STYLE WITH SPORTING TRIUMPHS AND GALA NIGHT

The Bishop’s Unity Cup has officially come to a close, crowning champions and celebrating unity among the Catholic faithful across deaneries.

In the volleyball finals, Our Lady Queen of Peace (OLQP) Deanery claimed victory, defeating Mutum Biyu Deanery in straight sets 2–0.

On the football field, Bali Deanery emerged champions after edging Kofai Deanery 2–1 in a tense, action-packed final.

The athletics category delivered its own excitement as Jalingo Deanery sprinted to victory in the men’s 200 metres, with OLQP Deanery and Kpantisawa Deanery finishing second and third respectively.

The tournament concluded with a colourful Gala Night, highlighted by a Tiv song presentation from Mutum Biyu Deanery and the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Very Rev. Dr. Williams Awoshiri, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Fr. Sunday Muke, and Mr. Job Julius, the Taraba State Youth Wing Chairman among others.

The Bishop’s Unity Cup successfully blended competitive sports, cultural expression, and faith-based fellowship, leaving participants and spectators inspired and united.

May God's grace be with all participants as they strive to serve Him better. Amen.

Unitatis Media

16/08/2025

16/08/2025

14/08/2025

12/08/2025

09/08/2025

09/08/2025

09/08/2025

05/08/2025

03/08/2025

02/08/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share