By Chiemeka Ugwowo, Abuja pi4
Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Promotes Care for Creation, Commends Environmental Commitment
Reverend Father Lawrence Emehel has commended the Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, for his dedication towards maintaining a clean, green, and environmentally sustainable environment at the Secretariat’s headquarters in Durumi, Abuja.
Fr. Emehel gave the commendation during a homily delivered at the CSN Chapel as part of activities marking the Sunday of Care for Creation, where he stressed the Church’s commitment to protecting the environment as a sacred responsibility entrusted to humanity by God.
The priest noted that the Church has taken seriously its role as a custodian of creation, emphasizing that the annual celebration serves as a reminder of the important relationship between human beings and the environment.
According to him, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria has become a practical example of environmental stewardship, with its surroundings remaining green, clean, and properly maintained throughout the year.
He described the achievement as a reflection of deeper ecological consciousness, stressing that caring for the environment goes beyond human comfort but demonstrates respect for God’s creation.
“Creation belongs to God, and we are only caretakers. Protecting it is part of our responsibility as believers,” he said.
Reflecting on the biblical readings, Fr. Emehel explained that the Book of Wisdom points believers towards the beauty of creation and encourages them to recognise the greatness of the Creator behind the wonders of nature.
He likened creation to a beautiful masterpiece, explaining that just as people admire the skill of an architect behind a magnificent building, the beauty of nature should inspire humanity to acknowledge God as the ultimate Creator.
The priest recalled the words of Scripture in Genesis 1:31, where God looked at all He created and declared it “very good,” adding that Psalm 24 reminds believers that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.”
He urged Christians to show practical commitment to environmental protection through proper waste disposal, cleanliness, and responsible use of natural resources.
Fr. Emehel condemned indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels, warning that such actions contribute to environmental problems, including flooding, which affects many communities.
He also clarified that caring for creation does not mean worshipping nature, explaining that Christians honour God by protecting the gifts He has provided.
“The trees, flowers, forests, and other elements of nature are gifts from God. We do not worship them; rather, they reveal the wisdom and greatness of the Creator,” he said.
The priest highlighted the importance of trees and plants in sustaining life, noting their role in absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, which reflects the balance and generosity of God’s creation.
He concluded by reminding the faithful that environmental responsibility is both a spiritual and moral obligation.
“When we care for the earth, we honour God. When we protect nature, we protect humanity. And when we respect creation, we acknowledge the greatness of the One who made it all,” he said.
Fr. Emehel also offered prayers for the faithful, asking God to grant their heart desires and continue to bless their lives.
