By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria has sent warm congratulations to Pope Leo the Fourteenth, pledging full support and continuous prayers for his mission as the new leader of the global Church.
In a goodwill message released by the National Director of Social Communications, Very Reverend Father Michael Nsikak Umoh, CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, conveyed the Bishops’ heartfelt felicitation on behalf of Catholics in Nigeria and people of goodwill.
“We extend heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo the Fourteenth and assure him of our allegiance, prayers, and support,” the message read.
The Bishops also commended the role played by the College of Cardinals, including Nigerian Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, in the successful conclave that elected the American-born pontiff.
Archbishop Ugorji called on the faithful to pray for the Pope’s strength, wisdom, and courage as he begins his pontificate.
He also encouraged Catholic priests to offer Masses of Thanksgiving in honour of the new Holy Father across parishes in the country.
