By Ade Iyamoye 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, hailing him as a global beacon of mercy, justice, and compassion.

In a press statement issued on April 21 by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN offered heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and the global Christian community.

CAN described the late pontiff as a towering figure of faith whose leadership left a lasting impact on Nigeria and beyond.

“Pope Francis strengthened the Church in Nigeria through strategic appointments of bishops and cardinals, and stood firmly for peace, unity, and dignity in our nation,” the statement read.

CAN also highlighted the Pope’s advocacy for interfaith dialogue, environmental responsibility, and family values as outlined in his papal letters Laudato Si’ and Amoris Laetitia, noting that his teachings had enriched Christian life across Africa despite his never visiting Nigeria.

“As we bid farewell to this devoted servant of God, we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for the Catholic Church in this moment of transition,” Archbishop Okoh stated, urging Nigerians to continue drawing inspiration from the Pope’s life of humility and devotion.

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

The FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has started issuing refunds to pilgrims who did not receive full services during the 2023 Hajj.

According to the Board’s spokesperson, Malam Muhammad Lawal, over 1,900 out of 2,259 verified pilgrims have been refunded so far, while 322 cases are still under review.

A dedicated verification committee led by Malam Kadiri Edah is overseeing the process to ensure only eligible pilgrims receive payment.

Beneficiaries are required to present their stamped international passports and National Identification Numbers in person.

Lawal called on the remaining pilgrims to submit the necessary documents without delay, assuring them that the refund exercise is still ongoing and will be completed transparently.

By Ade Iyamoye 

The Auxiliary Bishop of Abuja Archdiocese, Most Rev. Anselm Umoren, has cautioned against the excessive use of musical instruments in church liturgies, emphasizing that sacred music should be solemn and prayerful.

He gave this warning during the 2025 Annual Lenten Retreat of the Catholic Archdiocesan Choir, Abuja, held on Saturday, 22 March at St. Martin of Tours Parish, Mabushi.

Speaking during an interactive session with choristers from across the archdiocese, Bishop Umoren stressed that choir ministry is not a performance but a spiritual duty that demands discipline, humility, and commitment.

He urged choristers to focus on the essence of liturgical music, ensuring that their renditions inspire prayer rather than entertainment.

The retreat, which included confessions, counseling, and Eucharistic Adoration led by Rev. Fr. Uchenna Secundu Ogu, also featured a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Umoren alongside other priests, including Rev. Fr. Ben Onyemechalu, the Associate Chaplain of the Archdiocesan Choir, and Rev. Fr. Hilary Ugiomoh, the Parish Priest.

The bishop further advised choristers to prepare adequately for Masses and other liturgical functions while calling on the church to support the choir’s basic needs.

Following the Mass, the bishop held an interactive session where he reinforced the importance of discipline and spiritual growth in choir service.

The Associate Chaplain, Fr. Onyemechalu, expressed gratitude to the bishop for his guidance, while the Archdiocesan Choirmaster, Charles U. Arua, pledged to uphold high musical standards and appealed for consistent church support.

Also, the Archdiocesan Choirmaster assured that efforts would be made to align church music with liturgical guidelines.

The retreat concluded with meditation and adoration, leaving participants spiritually renewed.