Catholic Bishop in Nigeria Decries Growing Materialism, Calls for Return to Faith through Selfless Service

Abuja, 19 January, 2025 / 10:44 PM

Bishop Gabriel Ghiakhomo Dunia of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Nigeria has decried the growing culture of self-centeredness and loss of fidelity to the teachings of Jesus Christ among Christians, noting that those led by materialism lack of spiritual vision.

In an interview with ACI Africa on Saturday, January 18 on the sidelines of the annual St. Paul’s Lecture, Bishop Dunia highlighted the dangers of prioritizing material wealth, social status, and economic well-being over Christian values. 

Self-centered individuals, he said, do not see beyond materialism, what they have, their ranks, the position they occupy, and economic well-being. “That is not why we exist,” the Nigerian Catholic Bishop said.

He described focus on fleeting satisfaction as an “aberration” and called for renewed emphasis on spiritual growth and the pursuit of eternal life.

The inability to adhere to the faith as preached by Jesus, he remarked, remains a significant challenge. 

“Jesus came to serve, not to be served, but a growing culture of self-centeredness within the Church is undermining this mission,” Bishop Dunia said. 

He expressed concern about the rising desire for immediate gratification at the expense of spiritual depth among those he said claim to be Christians. 

“People do all sorts of things to achieve personal satisfaction, no matter how short-lived it is,” the Local Ordinary of Auchi said, urging the Church to counter this mindset by intensifying its teachings on selflessness and humility.

Bishop Dunia underscored the importance of catechesis rooted in authentic discipleship, saying, “Those who teach must be convinced of what they are teaching.” 

He advocated for early and consistent catechesis to instill humility and detachment from materialism in children.

“It is not indoctrination. We are here not to use material things to oppress or satisfy our desires while forgetting our ultimate destination. Life is a journey; focusing solely on earthly gains leads to failure and regret,” Bishop Dunia said.

Reflecting on the Catholic Church in Nigeria 60 years after the Second Vatican Council, the 67-year-old Catholic Bishop expressed concern over deviations from core Christian tenets. 

He faulted acts of service motivated by the need for recognition rather than humility, saying, “Many, even within the Church, serve with ulterior motives, seeking influence. True service follows Christ’s example of selflessness.” 

“When we give, it should not be to make others worship us but to serve in all sincerity,” the Catholic Church leader said.

Pointing to St. Paul’s unwavering mission to proclaim Christ regardless of personal comfort, Bishop Dunia urged Christians to emulate the Apostle’s example. 

“A full stomach or an empty stomach does not matter,” he said. “What matters is to proclaim Christ, who came to serve us, not to be served,” he said.

The Nigerian Catholic Bishop also shared a message for young people discerning a vocation to the Priesthood. 

He underscored selflessness as essential for priestly service, citing St. Peter’s question about the rewards of following Jesus. 

“Jesus responded that those who follow Him with sincerity will be abundantly rewarded,” Bishop Dunia said. 

He added, “Authentic selflessness reflects the true essence of our faith and is key to serving God effectively.”