Over 130 Confirmands at Nigerian Catholic Parish Urged to be Environmental Stewards

In brief

Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama challenged 137 confirmands at St. John Mary Vianney Parish in Lugbe to become environmental stewards during a homily on September 6. Speaking during a celebration for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja told the group that their confirmation strengthens them to live their Christian vocation with greater responsibility.

He encouraged the confirmands to begin conservation efforts at the parish level and gave them the specific task of planting a tree at home this week. Kaigama said planting a tree serves as a sign of faith and a concrete contribution to the future of creation, noting that the Christian life involves living out the commandment of love in the world.

The Archbishop also addressed the effects of environmental neglect in Nigeria, including flooding, erosion, pollution, poor waste management, and the destruction of vegetation. He stated that individuals have a responsibility to safeguard natural resources and called for collective action to protect the environment.