The Masses Advocate

-​By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Benin City, Nigeria – November 29, 2025 – The Association of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary in the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City has inaugurated a new executive council following its Archdiocesan election held today, November 29, 2025, at St Paul's Catholic Church, Airport Road. ​ Dr. Aneni Tom emerged as the new Archdiocesan President, succeeding Mrs. Aliu Bernadette Celine. ​A New Vision for Transformation ​In his acceptance speech, Dr. Tom warmly appreciated the members and immediately cast a transformative vision for the Society. He announced plans to move the association "from a traditional devotional group to a dynamic, transformative force ," fully aligning it with the renewed Evangelization efforts of the Archdiocese of Benin. ​His vision is built upon three core pillars: ​ Deepened Spirituality ​ Evangelizing Mission ​ Communal Witness ​Key Vision Statement ​Dr. Tom articulated ...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ Kaduna, Nigeria — The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese and Convener of the National Peace Committee (NPC), Most Rev. Matthew Kukah, has delivered a strong and controversial statement, insisting that the widely circulated narrative of "Christian persecution" in Nigeria is inaccurate. Speaking at the 46th Supreme Convention of the Knights of St. Mulumba (KSM) in Kaduna, Bishop Kukah also sought to clarify the legal and moral definition of genocide , arguing it is determined by intent, not casualty numbers. ​Refuting Persecution Claims and Debunking Data ​Bishop Kukah directly challenged the source and accuracy of figures used to describe attacks on Christians, specifically questioning claims of 1,200 churches being burnt annually. ​“They are saying that 1,200 churches are burnt in Nigeria every year, and I ask myself—in which Nigeria? Interestingly, nobody approached the Catholic Church to get accurate data... All those talking ab...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​In a significant show of commitment to national renewal, the Church and Society Department of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria recently concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja. Over two intensive days, the event brought together the directors and secretaries of the five critical units—Education, Family and Human Life, Health, JDPC, and Migration—to unify strategies for implementing the Church's social mission across the country. ​The crucial gathering was elevated by the presence of key ecclesiastical leaders, including the Department's Board Chairman, Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Luka Gopep of Minna, underscoring the hierarchy's full backing of the department's work. ​ Responding to a Critical Time ​In his address, Rev Fr Michael Banjo reflected on the profound dedication shown by all present, particularly given the "critical time" the nation currently faces. H...

BENIN CITY — The Archdiocese has issued a comprehensive directive clarifying several liturgical practices, urging all clergy and faithful to strictly adhere to the norms established by the universal Church, particularly those stemming from the Second Vatican Council and the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM). The directive highlights concerns that certain inherited traditions and unauthorized innovations are detracting from the proper worship and solemnity of the Holy Mass. ​The central message is a renewed commitment to the GIRM's guidelines, which emphasize that the Mass is a sacred prayer and anamnesis (re-enactment of Christ's sacrifice), and "NOT a show." ​ Key Concerns and Clarifications for the Sanctuary ​The document addresses several common practices observed in parish churches: ​ The Priest's Chair (Sedilia): The long-standing tradition of arranging three identical seats for the priest celebrant is explicitly discouraged...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ Vatican City — Pope Leo XIV has issued a new apostolic letter, In Unitate Fidei ("In the Unity of Faith"), on the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, proposing a major ecumenical push that centers on the original Nicene Creed, explicitly omitting the controversial Latin clause, Filioque ("and the Son"). ​The apostolic letter, published Sunday, November 23, emphasizes the primacy of Christian unity and reconciliation with the Eastern Churches, asserting that "what unites us is much greater than what divides us." ​ The Controversial Omission ​The key point of contention is the Pope's conscious choice to cite the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed of 381 in its original form, which describes the Holy Spirit proceeding from the Father, but not including the later Western insertion, "and the Son" ( Filioque ) . ​The Filioque has been a flashpoint in Catholic-Orthodox relations for centuries, ...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​The Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City officially inaugurated the Jubilee Year of Hope for Choristers on the Feast of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music.  This significant event was a blend of spiritual reflection, cultural celebration, and ministerial rededication, focusing on transforming the choir's role into a powerful vehicle for faith and healing in contemporary society. ​The Ministering Voice: Hope in a Time of Crisis ​The day's central message—calling on choir members to view their role not as performance but as a crucial ministry—was delivered by the Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Omogiate, Dean of Benin City and Chairman of the Archdiocesan Jubilee Year of Hope Committee. ​Fr. Omogiate strongly emphasized the choir's vital function in the contemporary Nigerian context, which is currently marked by violence, economic uncertainty, kidnapping, killings, and spiritual fatigue.  He asserted that the choristers' voic...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a scathing, strongly-worded warning that the nation is rapidly descending into a state of profound insecurity and fragility, demanding urgent and decisive intervention from government authorities to restore peace and stability.  In a press release titled “Peace in Nigeria: Moving from Fragility to Stability,” the prelates expressed deep concern over the "deplorable security situation" and the "ongoing discourse heating up the nation’s fragile social and religious climate."  The Crisis: A Catalogue of Atrocities ​The Bishops unequivocally condemned the persistent violence by "murderous groups" that have claimed countless lives, destroyed homes, and displaced families.  They underscored the scale of the crisis by detailing recent, specific tragedies that demonstrate the impunity of the attackers: 265 students and teachers abducted in Papiri, ...

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Benin City, Edo State – November 14, 2025 – The Vivian Ogu Movement in the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City hosted its inaugural annual symposium to both commemorate the 16th Memorial Day Celebration of the Servant of God, Vivian Uchechi Ogu, and vigorously promote her Cause for Beatification and Canonisation. ​Held at the Archbishop Ekpu Hall, St. Albert Catholic Church, University of Benin (UNIBEN) , the event drew priests, religious, and members from various lay apostolic groups. The central, academically rigorous topic was: "Paucity of African Saints, Challenges and Limitations of the Church in Nigeria." The symposium clearly established that the limited number of African saints stems from a combination of colonial-era attitudes, a lack of local collaboration, and severe technical hurdles, particularly concerning medical evidence. ​ Key Discussions on African Canonisation Challenges ​The symposium featured experts who dissec...

​ -By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria – The Nigerian academic and media communities are mourning the death of a revered pioneer, Professor Sandra Ladi Adamu , who passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the age of 67. ​Professor Adamu achieved distinction as Nigeria’s first-ever female Professor of Broadcast Journalism , marking a historic milestone in the nation's media education sector. ​A Legacy of Excellence at ABU Zaria ​Until her death, Professor Adamu was a highly respected faculty member in the Department of Mass Communication at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria . She was instrumental in training and mentoring countless journalists and media professionals across the country. ​ Passing: She reportedly died at the National Hospital, Abuja, following a period of illness. ​ Career Highlights: Born on July 17, 1958, Prof. Adamu had a diverse and impactful career. She had stints working abroad, including at the Nige...

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Benin City, Edo State – November 11, 2025 – The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, has leveled serious accusations against the immediate past administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki, claiming it secretly attempted to hijack the Benin Royal Museum project by rebranding it as the Museum Of West African Art (MOWAA) without royal assent. ​The Monarch made the forceful claims on Monday while hosting a delegation of European Union (EU) Envoys in his palace. Oba Ewuare II alleged that the former government mirrored the destructive actions of the 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom by attempting to seize control of the kingdom's priceless cultural heritage. ​ Allegations of Secret Funds and Structural Change ​According to the Oba, the Obaseki administration allegedly secured significant funding from international partners, including the German Government, under the pretense of building the Benin Royal Museum. He then questio...

​- By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ DAR ES SALAAM, NOVEMBER 10, 2025 — The Catholic Archbishop of Dar es Salaam, Most Rev. Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ichi, OFM Cap., delivered a searing condemnation of the violence and killings that engulfed Tanzania during and after the October 29 General Election, mourning what he described as the nation’s "loss of soul." ​In a deeply emotional homily during a solemn Memorial Mass for the victims—a group that includes those killed in what is being called the country's worst post-election bloodshed—the Archbishop lamented the devastating human cost. Reports indicate that many lives were lost, hundreds were injured, and scores are still detained as authorities continue to round up individuals accused of participating in the protests. ​ Fractured Nation and Loss of Dignity ​The unrest has sparked both national and international outrage, staining Tanzania’s long-standing reputation as a beacon of stability in Africa. Archb...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ Vatican City, November 10 – In a move underscoring the increasing influence of African clergy in the central governance of the Holy See, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has appointed Revd. Fr. Edward Daniang Daleng, O.S.A., as the new Vice-Regent of the Prefecture of the Papal Household . ​This key appointment places a respected Nigerian Augustinian in a crucial administrative role, directly responsible for managing the daily life and public engagements of the Supreme Pontiff. ​The Role of the Vice-Regent: Precision at the Heart of the Papacy ​The Prefecture of the Papal Household ( Prefettura della Casa Pontificia ) is one of the most historically significant offices in the Vatican. It is the administrative engine that ensures the Pope's complex schedule runs with precision, decorum, and fidelity to tradition. ​As Vice-Regent, Fr. Daleng will work closely with the Prefect, Archbishop Leonardo Sapienza, C.R., to: ​ Organize the Pope’s dai...

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Okada, Edo State – The Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) Iguobazuwa Deanery inaugurated its new leadership today, November 9, 2025, following a successful quadrennial election. Arch Constantine Omokpo emerged as the new President of the Deanery's Executive Committee, marking the beginning of a fresh four-year term. The significant transition event, held at St. Gabriel De Archangel Catholic Church, Okada , followed the completion of the previous administration's tenure. ​The election process was smoothly executed and meticulously supervised by a delegation from the CMO Archdiocese of Benin City , with the Archdiocesan Secretary General, Mr. Osas Egheomwanre , ably leading the team. ​ A Day of Transition and Transparency ​The day's schedule combined spiritual observance with essential organizational duties: ​ Thanksgiving Mass: Activities began with a Holy Mass and a thanksgiving ceremony by the outgoing CMO Iguobazuwa Deanery Exe...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​Kano, Nigeria – November 5, 2025 – The Catholic Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CAMPAN) opened its 10th Annual Conference in Kano with a sharp admonition from its leadership regarding the state of communication in the Catholic Church.  Campan Suleiman Adams, President of CAMPAN, Northern Nigeria Regional Exco, used his welcome address to issue a serious warning: assigning the critical role of a diocese’s image-maker to unqualified personnel is jeopardizing the mission and effectiveness of the Church's communication apostolate. ​"The issue encountered when the job of an image maker of a diocese is assigned to unqualified personnel the task may be enormous and the gains may not be achieved," Adams stated emphatically. He then reinforced the association's long-standing appeal, urging that the position of Director of Communication of any diocese should only be assigned to professionals. To achieve this, he stressed, more ...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Kano, Nigeria – Catholic media practitioners from Nigeria's Northern Region gathered in Kano from November 4th to 6th, 2025, for their 10th Annual Conference. The event, held at St. Thomas Royal Parish, focused on the critical theme of "Peace Journalism and Interfaith Dialogue in a Divided Society," underscoring the media’s role in fostering stability amid national challenges. The conference was hosted by the Diocese of Kano, whose Bishop, Most Revd Dr John Niyiring Namaza (OSA), along with the clergy and laity, extended a heartfelt welcome to the participants. Vicar General Urges Truth as Antidote to Fake News The conference was officially declared open by the Vicar General and Cathedral Administrator of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Cathedral, Very Reverend Father Michael Adefemi Adegbola. In his keynote address, Father Adegbola stressed that Peace Media must embody "a journalism for peace in response to the threat of...

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ BENIN CITY, EDO STATE - November 4, 2025 ​The Benin Traditional Council has issued a public statement from the Oba Palace, expressing its profound gratitude for the immense support and goodwill shown during the recent celebration of the ninth coronation anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Omo 'N' Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin. ​In the announcement, signed by Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council , the Palace described the anniversary celebration as a "huge success," attributing the smooth proceedings to the blessings of God and the Ancestors, as well as the overwhelming participation from the general public. ​The Council singled out several high-profile political figures for their messages of goodwill and support. The appreciation goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR , President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and former Vice-President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar . Sp...

48 Years, Six Popes: Beloved Papal Photographer Francesco Sforza Retires, Highlighting Media's Enduring Gospel Reach -By Ruben Mario Brodrick  ​ VATICAN CITY – A half-century of history, devotion, and unparalleled access came to a close as Francesco Sforza , the official photographer for the Pope, announced his retirement after an extraordinary 48 years of service . ​Sforza's career began under Paul VI and spanned six pontificates, making him a living archive of modern Church history. His lens didn't just capture Popes; it documented defining moments for the global Catholic community, from historic international pilgrimages to intimate daily blessings. ​A Legacy Spanning Six Popes ​The priceless collection of images Sforza created immortalizes the distinct personalities and critical events across six Papacies. He started under Paul VI , then captured the brief pontificate of John Paul I , before following the globe-trotting mission of Saint Joh...

-​By Ruben Mario Brodrick  Vatican City, November 4, 2025 — The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith ( DDF ) has issued a significant doctrinal clarification, formally advising against the use of the titles "Co-Redemptrix" and certain interpretations of "Mediatrix of all graces" when describing the Blessed Virgin Mary. ​In a new document titled Mater Populi Fidelis ( The Mother of the Faithful People ), the DDF emphasizes the critical need to protect the unique and unrepeatable role of Jesus Christ as the world’s sole Redeemer and Mediator . The note states that the term "Co-Redemptrix" is “always inappropriate” because it risks confusing the central Christian truth that salvation was achieved by Christ alone through His death and resurrection. ​Similarly, while affirming Mary's intercessory role, the document warns against any interpretation of "Mediatrix" that might suggest her mediating power is independen...

​ By Ruben Mario Brodrick -November 4, 2025 ​China has forcefully intervened in the growing diplomatic crisis between Nigeria and the United States, urging the international community to respect Nigeria's sovereignty following threats of military action from the US. ​The escalating tension stems from recent statements attributed to US President Donald Trump, who reportedly threatened to deploy military forces in the West African nation unless the alleged persecution of Christians is halted. ​ Beijing's Strong Stance ​Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, Mao Ning , spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delivered a stern rebuke to the US position. She explicitly reaffirmed Beijing’s "strong support" for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and commended the Nigerian government for "leading its people on a development path suited to its national conditions." ​Mao Ning made clear that China views the US threat...