By Rejoice Paul

Christians have been urged to detach themselves from worldly vices that threaten their moral standards and instead focus on matters that lead to eternal salvation.

The Catholic Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Jos, Archbishop Matthew Ishaya Audu, made this call during a homily as part of the celebrations for this year’s Feast of St. Vincent de Paul, held at St. Thomas’ Parish, Shen, on Sunday, 29 September, in Jos.

Citing passages from the books of James, Luke, and Timothy, Bishop Audu warned that the pursuit of wealth must not interfere with believers’ obligations to God.

“On no account must believers’ quest for money come between them and their obligations to God. Otherwise, we shall be guilty of being slaves to money rather than God,” the Archbishop said, referencing Luke 16:13.

He further emphasized that followers of Christ should use their wealth in service to God, humanity, and their families. “If money is spent on sheer frivolities, one is guilty of its wrongful use,” he cautioned. “Let us ask God to give us a balanced Christian attitude towards wealth—in how we acquire, use, and invest it.”

Sister Scholastica Achinkumbur of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul shared her joy in her vocation, stressing that the less privileged should not lose hope, as God remains with them at all times.

The President of the Jos Central Council of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Sir Augustine Davou, highlighted the Society’s outreach efforts to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Barkin-Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu. He also called on the Justice, Development, and Peace Commission (JDPC) and other well-meaning Nigerians to assist in their mission to alleviate the suffering of the less fortunate.

During the symbolic burning of intentions, the Assistant Parish Priest of St. Thomas’ Parish, Rev. Fr. Peter Daluke, encouraged members of the Vincentian Society to continue their vocation, both within the Church and in the larger society. He prayed for God’s strength and guidance for their mission.

The event’s high points included a Thanksgiving offering, the renewal of promises, and the donation of food items to beneficiaries.

St. Vincent de Paul, known for his compassion, humility, and generosity, was canonized in 1737 and is venerated as a saint in both the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion. His feast day is marked in the Catholic Church on 27 September.