The also condemn what they describe as commercialization of the liturgy in form of “taking up too many collections and fundraising right in the middle of liturgical celebrations”
Other “abuses” that the CBCN members condemn are use of the pulpit to pursue personal interests, incorporation of local customs that are inconsistent with the faith under the umbrella of inculturation, failure to use proper vestments, lack of adequate preparation for every aspect of the liturgical celebration, as well as the invention of rites, such as Child Dedication “with some Priests placing the child on the altar, when, in the teaching of the Church, a child is dedicated to God during baptism; blessing of items not approved by the Church as sacramentals; and many others.”
“These grave violations are not only a direct affront to the sanctity of the liturgy but also a source of scandal and embarrassment to the Church in Nigeria. We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, any and all abuses within the sacred liturgy,” CBCN members say.
“The liturgy is not a private playground for personal innovation. It is not a platform for the self-expression of the celebrant. It is a sacred trust, handed down by the Church, which must be celebrated according to the established norms and traditions,” they say.
The Catholic Bishops note that “any Priest who takes it upon himself to deviate from these norms is guilty of a serious betrayal of his sacred duty and is leading the faithful astray.”
“Such actions are not merely errors in judgment; they are violations of the sacred order and must be treated as such. We remind our Priests that the altar is not a stage for theatrics, nor is the liturgy a venue for novelty,” the Catholic Church leaders say in their statement signed by CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji.
They further emphasize, “The Church has given us clear directives on how the liturgy is to be celebrated, and these must be followed without exception. Fidelity to the laws of the Church is not optional- it is mandatory. The faithful deserve nothing less than the true and reverent celebration of the mysteries of our faith.”
Addressing the Bishops, who are the “chief liturgists of their Dioceses”, CBCN members urge them to “take immediate and decisive action to correct these abuses.”
“The faithful look to you for leadership, and it is your sacred duty to ensure that the liturgy in your Diocese is conducted with the dignity and reverence it demands,” Nigeria’s Catholic Bishops say.
They say it is “imperative” that Bishops “work together to ensure that Priests within their jurisdictions adhere strictly to the directives of the Church. This collaborative effort is essential in maintaining the unity and sanctity of our liturgical worship.”
