Catholic Bishop Warns Against ‘Cancerous Faith’, Confirms 967 In Nsukka

The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most. Rev. Godfrey Onah, has urged newly confirmed Catholics to become “healthy cells” that contribute to the growth of the church rather than “cancerous cells” that weaken it.

Bishop Onah gave the charge during a sermon at St. Theresa’s Catholic Cathedral on Pentecost Sunday, where he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 967 candidates.

He encouraged the candidates to emulate the apostles of Jesus Christ who, after receiving the Holy Spirit, preached the Gospel courageously and remained steadfast in their faith even in the face of persecution.

“As you receive the Holy Spirit today, God has deposited in you special gifts that will enable you work for God, the church and humanity,” the bishop said.

“If after receiving this anointing today and you are not working for God and growth of the church, you have become cancerous cells in the church,” he added.

The cleric explained that through confirmation, the candidates had renewed their commitment to God and reaffirmed their resolve to live as “good soldiers of Jesus Christ” through lives dedicated to service and righteousness.

The mass also featured a pledge by the newly confirmed faithful to remain committed to God throughout their lives.

A major highlight of the service was the laying of hands by Bishop Onah as he prayed for the candidates to receive the Holy Spirit and divine peace.