Daniel FASANYA

“...so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Matt 6:4

Ambassador Edith Isidahomen was honoured with the Young Catholic Achiever Award on Sunday, May 8, 2025, at the Thanksgiving Mass held at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Orita Challenge, Ibadan.

The Thanksgiving Mass of the Award ceremony, which formed part of the parish’s 2025 Harvest celebrations, was presided over by Fr. Delkes Moses Manafen, SMA, with the homily delivered by Rev. Fr. Chukwubuikem Nwoha, SMA.

 

The event, which drew parishioners, youth leaders, and guests from across Ibadan, was organized to recognize and celebrate young Catholics who have demonstrated remarkable leadership, service, and spiritual commitment within the Church and society. Ambassador Isidahomen, who was present with her husband and supporters, was honoured alongside Mr. Aminu Taiwo Dominic.

 

In his homily, Fr. Nwoha reflected on Matthew 6:4: “…so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” He explained that true Christian charity flows from the heart and is most valuable when done without expectation of praise.

 

While secret giving is encouraged in the Gospel, he noted that public acts of generosity are also meaningful when motivated by love and not recognition—citing the example of Barnabas in Acts 4:36–37, whose public contribution helped inspire the early Church.

 

He further emphasized that evangelization, the core mandate given by Christ after the resurrection, is not limited to preaching, but includes everyday acts of kindness that mirror the love of God. Quoting Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others…” He reminded the congregation that visible good works can lead others to glorify God when done with sincerity.

 

Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Pope Francis, Fr. Nwoha encouraged the faithful to embrace prayer, charity, and humility as tools of evangelization. He described these practices as the seeds of transformation—quiet acts that renew both individuals and communities. He concluded by urging everyone to ask themselves how their lives can reflect the Gospel, not just in words, but in quiet, consistent action.

 

Ambassador Edith Isidahomen's recognition comes as no surprise to many within the Catholic community. As a media professional and advocate of youth engagement, she currently serves as National President of the Catholic Artistes and Entertainers Association of Nigeria (CAEAN). Since her election in August 2024, she has led several initiatives promoting evangelization through the creative arts, including drama, film, and Catholic-themed productions.

 

Her leadership has been praised by Church authorities, including Archbishop Gabriel Abegunrin of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, who has lauded CAEAN’s contributions to parish life and their efforts to engage youths meaningfully through spiritually enriching artistic expression.

 

The award presentation was met with applause and a spirit of gratitude as the parish community celebrated young leaders who continue to inspire others through faith and service. For many, it was a reminder that the mission of the Church is advanced not only through sermons but through everyday witness of committed individuals.

 

As Ambassador Isidahomen continues her service within the Church and through her work in Catholic media, her award stands as a recognition of the fruits of faithful stewardship—quietly sown, humbly lived, and joyfully harvested.