In his 2024 Christmas message, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has sounded a note of caution against the growing influence of secularism and the erosion of moral values in modern society.
Speaking to Christians celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Bishop Kukah expressed concern over the commercialization of Christmas, which he said is overshadowing its spiritual essence of peace, joy, and reconciliation.
“Christmas is increasingly being seen as another holiday or at best, one of the greatest opportunities for smart business returns. We have refused to accept the warning of Jesus that we cannot serve two masters,” he stated, referencing Matthew 6:2.
Kukah warned that materialism and moral decay, symbolized by the seven deadly sins; pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth, are leading the world astray and fueling instability.
Highlighting global conflicts, Kukah pointed to the ongoing violence in Gaza and other war-torn regions as evidence of humanity’s departure from God’s path.
“Today, the baby Jesus lies not in the innocence of swaddling clothes in Bethlehem but in the pool of blood that has now engulfed Gaza and its surrounding communities,” he lamented.
According to Kukah, the world’s moral compass has been lost, leading to escalating violence that threatens the message of hope that Christmas represents.
While urging Christians to be the light of the world, Kukah emphasized the need for self-examination and accountability rather than blaming institutions for societal corruption.
“We cannot continue to blame the Constitution, the Judiciary, the Police, or other public servants for the corruption in our society,” he said.
Instead, Kukah encouraged Christians to remain true to their baptismal promises, reminding them that divine laws written in their hearts should guide their actions.
Kukah criticized efforts to strip Christmas of its Christian meaning, warning that such trends could weaken the spiritual foundation of society.
“The forces of secularism are determined to empty Christmas of its core essence, which is the good news of joy and light to the world,” he said.
Despite the challenges facing the world, Kukah called on Christians to use the Christmas season for reflection, repentance, and the renewal of their faith.
“Christmas offers Christians a time for deep personal reflections on the values and virtues of the Christian witness,” he concluded.
Bishop Kukah’s message serves as both a challenge and a reminder for Christians to embrace their role as moral beacons and advocates of justice in a world grappling with crises.
