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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja and Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
Archbishop of Abuja Catholic Archdiocese, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, yesterday, led a Holy Mass at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Abuja, to honour the late Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI.
The Mass coincided with the funeral Mass held at same time in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican city, Rome, led by Pope Francis, for the late Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI who was born Joseph Ratzinger. He died on Dec. 31, 2022 in Vatican at the age of 95 after resigning on health grounds a decade ago.
Kaigama, in his homily, described Benedict XVI as a man who made profound theological contributions to the Catholic Church and the world; one who was a theological advisor during the Second Vatican Council and Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, but above all, a man of prayer.
He said the entire world has a lot to learn from Benedict XVI, particularly in the area of promoting peace and unity among global population irrespective of religion, race, social and economic status, and other differences.
Meanwhile, the requiem Mass for Benedict hosted by the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, yesterday, held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral, Makurdi, and had in attendance, priests, religious and the lay faithful.
Our correspondent reports that the Mass which began at 10 am, also coincided with the same time, the funeral mass was going on in Rome.
Speaking during a homily, the Parish Priest of St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Makurdi, Rev. Fr. Cosmos Jooli, said the death of the Pope marks the end of his sojourn on earth.
He noted that the Pope loved the Catholic church and guarded its doctrines with great wisdom and also stood like a protective wall around the Catholic church at all times.
Special prayers was offered for the repose of his soul while the Bishop, Most Rev Wilfred Anagbe requested all Catholics to remember the Pope in their daily prayers and masses.
