Catholic Archbishop of Jos, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Ishaya Audu
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The Catholic Archbishop of Jos, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Ishaya Audu, has called on the Catholic faithful to remain united despite differences, emphasizing that collective effort strengthens the Church and community.
He made this call on Friday while commissioning the renovated parish office at St. Finbarr’s Catholic Church, Rayfield, a project undertaken by the Executive Chairman of Shendam Local Government Area, Hon. Nicholas Kemi Nshe.
“Our resources may not be equal, but when we support each other, we demonstrate the love that binds us as God’s children,” the Archbishop stated. “This is what it means to be a family—lifting one another up and ensuring that God’s house reflects dignity and beauty.”
Commending the commitment of the parishioners, he added, “I have attended more functions here than in any other parish. As I approach my fifth year, I realize that some parishes have yet to fully embrace this vision. But here, I have been invited time and again, witnessing your commitment. From the gallery renovation to the new benches and pews, and now this, it is evident that this parish values growth and service.”
Hon. Nshe, who also marked his birthday on the same day, described the project as an act of gratitude to God and a way of giving back to the Church that played a pivotal role in shaping his life.
Reflecting on his deep-rooted connection to the Catholic Church, he recalled how growing up near the cathedral in Shendam influenced his faith and values.
“The Church has always been a guiding force in my life, shaping my principles and strengthening my resolve to serve others. As a young boy, I saw firsthand the sacrifices of Irish and Canadian priests who dedicated their lives to our spiritual and moral growth. It is that foundation that drives my commitment to give back,” he stated.
Initially planned as a project to construct new pews, Hon. Nshe explained that the initiative expanded to include structural renovations and new furnishings for the parish office.
“When the Church Council approached me to chair the Pews Committee, I saw it as a divine calling. Alongside a committed team, we ensured that the pews and the entire renovation reflected the dignity of God’s house.
” I believe that as individuals, we must always contribute to the development of our places of worship because that is where our ultimate blessings come from,” he added.
He further called on parishioners to see the development of the Church as a collective responsibility. To sustain this, he proposed that every household contribute at least one bag of cement during the 40 days of Lent, with a designated account set up for transparency.
“If we all come together in faith and action, we can build something truly remarkable for St. Finbarr’s. It is not about how much one person can do, but about how much we can achieve when we stand together,” he emphasized.
Commending Hon. Nshe’s contributions, Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan described his gesture as exemplary, urging leaders to follow his footsteps in supporting community development.
“Instead of extravagant celebrations, he has chosen to give back to the Church. This is a challenge to all of us to remember our responsibility to God’s house,” he noted.
Similarly, Hon. Musa Ibrahim Achoms, Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Plateau State lauded the initiative, emphasizing the importance of community leaders investing in places of worship as a way of giving back to society.
The event drew attendance from government officials, religious leaders, and members of the Catholic community, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
