By Fr. Maurice Kwairanga.
On the 19th of August 2024, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr Stephen Dami Mamza, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of JDPC Yola Diocese, along with other humanitarian actors in Nigeria, like UN-OCHA, UNHCR, NRC, IRC, DRC, Save the Children, NANGO and others came together to celebrate World Humanitarian Day.
This day is dedicated to honouring and recognizing those who have dedicated their lives to helping others in need, and this year’s theme is “Act for Humanity.”
This theme is deeply influenced by the teachings of the Bible and Catholic Social Teaching, which stress the importance of caring for the vulnerable and marginalized in society.
The Bible is filled with stories of compassion, generosity, and selflessness. From the Good Samaritan to the teachings of Jesus Christ himself, the message is clear: we are called to love our neighbours as ourselves and to show mercy and kindness to those in need.
This message is echoed in Catholic Social Teaching, which emphasizes the inherent dignity of every human person and the responsibility we have to promote the common good and work towards social justice.
In celebrating World Humanitarian Day with the theme “Act for Humanity,” Bishop Mamza and his colleagues are not only honouring those who have dedicated their lives to humanitarian work, but they are also reminding us all of our collective responsibility to act with compassion and empathy towards others. In a world that is often filled with conflict, strife, and suffering, it is more important than ever to stand up for those who are most vulnerable and in need of assistance.
As we reflect on the teachings of the Bible and Catholic Social Teaching, we are reminded that we are all called to be instruments of peace and love in the world. Whether it is through volunteering at a local charity, donating to a humanitarian organization, or simply offering a helping hand to someone in need, we all have the power to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
On this World Humanitarian Day, let us follow the example set by Bishop Mamza and his colleagues, and let us all commit to acting for humanity.
The Catholic Diocese of Yola, through the work of Bishop Mamza in the JDPC Office, has done so much in support of the IDPs right from when the insurgency started in 2014 till date in the areas of emergency relief, WAaSH, livelihoods, education in emergency, primary health care, education, shelter and psychosocial support.
The work of Bishop Mamza is evident for all to see. We give glory to God Almighty in our work of promoting justice, peace, and compassion. Let us continue to create a more just and equitable world for all.
