Shedding light on the significance of the Year of Prayer, as declared by the Holy Father, Pope Francis and His impact on Christians in Nigeria, CBCN Secretary for Pilgrimages, Congresses, and Synods at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Rev. Fr. Nicholas Djebah, emphasized that the Year of Prayer serves as a vital period of spiritual renewal.

Under the guidance of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), the initiative is aimed at offering a spiritual lead to the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, set to commence on December 24, 2024. “This year is crucial for us as it provides an opportunity to rekindle our faith and address the pressing issues facing our communities,” he said.

In Nigeria, where socio-political tensions and economic challenges are widespread, the Year of Prayer is seen as a timely initiative. Fr. Djebah explained, “The Pope’s call for a renewed focus on prayer and reflection is especially relevant in our context. It encourages us to seek spiritual strength amidst the difficulties we face and to work towards a more united and just society.”

The Year of Prayer will involve a structured calendar that integrates reflections on key Vatican II documents and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. According to Fr. Djebah, this approach endorsed and overseen by the CBCN, aims to deepen the understanding of faith among Nigerian Catholics and to foster a sense of community. “We are encouraging all dioceses to engage with the prayers and resources designed for this year of prayer and reflect on their implications for our daily lives and communal relationships,” he noted.

Fr. Djebah also highlighted the Pope’s emphasis on social justice, particularly the call for wealthier nations to alleviate debt for poorer countries. “This message is a powerful reminder for us to not only pray but also to take concrete actions towards justice and equity in our own country,” he said. “It aligns with our mission to address economic disparities and promote peace.”

The upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year, themed: “Jubilee of Hope,” which follows the Year of Prayer, is expected to be a transformative period for the Catholic Church in Nigeria.

Fr. Djebah expressed hope that it will lead to significant spiritual and social renewal. “The Jubilee offers a unique opportunity for reconciliation and renewal. We are preparing ourselves to fully embrace this period of grace and to work towards healing and unity,” he concluded.

As Nigerian Catholics embark on this Year of Prayer, Fr. Djebah’s insights underscore the importance of both spiritual reflection and practical action in addressing the challenges of our time, with the CBCN playing a pivotal role in guiding this crucial initiative.