By Chiemeka Ugwowo, Abuja
God’s Mercy Has Room for Everyone,
Rev. Fr. Michael Imadonmwinyi has urged Christians to remain steadfast in faith, perseverance and prayer, stressing that God’s mercy is available to everyone regardless of their past, weaknesses or limitations.
Delivering his homily at the Catholic Secretariat on Sunday, August 16, 2026, Fr. Imadonmwinyi reflected on the Gospel account of the Canaanite woman who approached Jesus seeking healing for her suffering daughter.
He described the woman as a powerful example of unwavering faith, noting that her encounter with Christ teaches believers that God’s silence should never be mistaken for rejection.
According to him, the Canaanite woman’s words, “Lord, have mercy on me,” revealed the depth of genuine love and intercessory prayer, because the pain of her daughter had become her own pain.
“True love makes the suffering of another person a personal concern. This is the heart of intercessory prayer — standing before God on behalf of others,” he said.
The priest explained that although the woman was a Gentile and considered an outsider by society, she recognized Jesus as the Messiah by calling Him “Lord” and “Son of David.”
He stressed that God’s grace is not restricted by human boundaries, tribe, social status or background, adding that while humans often judge based on outward appearances, God looks into the heart.
Fr. Imadonmwinyi noted that the woman turned to Jesus after exhausting human solutions, teaching Christians that they must always rely on God, not only during moments of crisis but throughout their daily lives.
He, however, acknowledged that many believers experience moments when their prayers appear unanswered, citing situations such as sickness, unemployment, family struggles and insecurity.
The Catholic priest explained that “God’s silence is not God’s absence,” adding that moments of waiting can be opportunities for God to strengthen faith and prepare believers for greater blessings.
“Faith is not only believing when God answers our prayers; faith is continuing to trust even when God appears silent,” he said.
He encouraged Christians, especially parents, to remain persistent in prayer for their children, stressing that the faith of the Canaanite woman became a channel of healing and blessing for her daughter.
Reflecting on the words of St. Paul that “the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable,” Fr. Imadonmwinyi reminded the faithful that God remains faithful despite human failures.
He said no one should believe they are beyond God’s forgiveness, because “God’s mercy is greater than our sins.”
The priest further warned Christians against judging others, saying the Church is not a private club for perfect people but a place where everyone encounters God’s mercy and receives the opportunity to begin again.
He outlined three major lessons from the Gospel: that God’s mercy is greater than human understanding, that divine silence does not mean rejection, and that everyone has been invited into God’s family.
Fr. Imadonmwinyi called on the faithful to approach Jesus with confidence and humility, just as the Canaanite woman did, always remembering the powerful prayer: “Lord, help me.”
He concluded by praying that Christ, who does not treat people according to their faults or sins, would continue to strengthen believers and lead them closer to His mercy.
Amen.
