The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and the Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria have welcomed the new Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Cotty, with a grand reception in Abuja.
The Vice President of the CBCN, Archbishop Mathew Man’oso Ndagoso, led the reception team, joined by the National President of the Papal Knights and Medalists, Sir Steve Adehi,SAN, Kcss and Dame Amina Yakowa, the President of the Kaduna Province.
In a symbolic gesture marking his arrival, the association also attended the First Mass celebrated by Archbishop Cotty.
The event was described as a significant moment for the Catholic community in Nigeria, ushering in a new chapter of spiritual engagement.
During the Mass, which saw the participation of national officers and several members of the Papal Knights and Medalists, Archbishop Cotty delivered a homily inspired by the biblical account of Bartimaeus, the blind man healed by Jesus.
He encouraged the congregation to seek God with honesty and perseverance, despite discouragement from others.
The Archbishop expressed gratitude for his new assignment in Nigeria, noting the country’s shared history with Irish missionaries. He also pledged to visit various dioceses to engage directly with the Catholic community across the nation.
The Mass was enriched by vibrant hymns from the church choir, along with cultural dances performed by the worshiping community, adding a festive atmosphere to the occasion.
In a related development, the Association of Papal Knights and Medalists demonstrated their commitment to charitable causes by donating N5 million to support the Diocese of Maiduguri in providing relief for those displaced by recent flooding in Borno State. Additionally, the group donated 200 hymn books to the Maiduguri Cathedral.
Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme of Maiduguri Diocese expressed profound gratitude for the association’s generosity, praying for God’s blessings and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary upon all members of the group.
