The Catholic Archbishop of Jos Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Matthew Ishaya Audu, has reminded Church leaders that any position they hold is an invitation from God to serve, not to be served. He made this statement in his homily during the General Executive Meeting and Handing Over Ceremony of the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria (CWON), held at the Sacred Heart Pastoral Centre, Jos, from March 20th to 23rd, 2025.

Archbishop Audu emphasized that leadership in the Church is a privilege, not an entitlement. He urged all leaders to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who said, “I came not to be served, but to serve.” He reminded them that God’s work can be done without human involvement, but He chooses to use people as instruments for His purpose. "...any position you occupy in the Church, it is an invitation from God for you to come and serve. Infact, God can do it without us, it is only a privilege that he wants to use us and you should remember this constantly!" Archbishop Audu charged.

During the event, Mrs. Elizabeth Olayinka Sonubi from Ijebu-Ode Diocese in Lagos Province was formally installed as the new National President of CWON. Archbishop Audu congratulated her and encouraged her to see her new role as a mission to serve all Catholic women across Nigeria. He stressed that her responsibility extends beyond her Province and advised her to care for the women under her leadership with humility and dedication.

Archbishop Audu urged her to prioritize the welfare of Catholic women across all Provinces and Dioceses/Archdioceses in Nigeria. He advised her to approach her new role with humility, emphasizing that true leadership mirrors Christ's example of selfless service.

"You are there to serve and not to be served, take care of the women. It is not just a title, for now, you will become the number One (1) Catholic Woman in Nigeria, but like Jesus, you are not of this world, try to take care of other Provinces and all the women who are under you. When you do that, then you will receive God's Blessings!" The Archbishop admonished.

His Grace also cautioned the new executives and members against neglecting their families while carrying out their duties in the Church. He described the family as the “domestic Church” and reminded them that their primary responsibility lies with their homes. Balancing Church service with family life, he said, is crucial for a successful and fulfilling leadership experience.

The Archbishop called on all Catholic women to support their new leaders and work together for the growth of the organization. He highlighted the sacred role of women in creation, noting that their ability to bear children makes them co-creators with God. He encouraged them to embrace their leadership roles with faith, perseverance, and a commitment to prayer.

Outgoing CWON National President, Dame Mary Asibi Gomsum, expressed gratitude to God for a successful tenure. She thanked Archbishop Audu and other Church leaders for their support and officially welcomed her successor, urging her to build on the foundation laid by previous leaders. She also conveyed the greetings and message of the Bishop Chair of Laity, who was absent due to personal bereavement but assured the women of his prayers.

The event featured speeches, reports, and deliberations on the future of CWON, with the official handover taking place in the presence of the National Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Linus Huabo, and the National Sr.  Adviser, Rev. Sr. Assumpta Taiwo.

This leadership transition aligns with CWON's ongoing efforts to strengthen its mission and support system. It will be recalled that in January 2025, CWON leaders paid a courtesy visit to the new Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, demonstrating solidarity and support for the broader Church’s leadership. During this visit, Dame Gomsum emphasized the importance of seeking divine guidance in leadership roles.

As CWON enters a new chapter, the message from Archbishop Audu remains clear—“Leadership in the Church is a call to serve with humility, faith, and dedication.”