Violence against religious personnel in Nigeria must stop| National Catholic Register

Violence against religious personnel is not just an attack on individuals, but an affront to the very principles of compassion and community they embody.

In recent years, the growing uncertainty surrounding Nigeria’s economy has grabbed headlines, and another crisis looms quietly but ominously in the background: the escalating insecurity facing religious personnel, particularly priests and nuns. The kidnapping and killing of these indigenous missionaries has become tragically common, often occurring without repercussions for the perpetrators. This reality should be deeply unsettling, especially when we consider the invaluable contributions they make to their communities.

But why should we care? Why should their plight resonate with us when they seemingly chose a life of service, one that could be perceived as signing their own safety for the sake of the Church and humanity?

To dismiss this crisis as a mere occupational hazard would be to overlook a profound and disturbing shift in our societal values. The increasing normalization of violence against religious figures signals a dangerous erosion of the sense of meaning and sacredness that underpins both faith and community. Perhaps to remain silent will be to be complicit in the gradual loss of respect for life and the sacred duties that priests and missionaries generally perform.

The role of priests in Nigeria extends far beyond the boundaries of the Church. These dedicated individuals are an integral part of the social fabric of their communities, engaging in educational initiatives, access to healthcare and various local projects that would otherwise require substantial financial resources if outsourced. Their commitment embodies Jesus’ proclamation that “the harvest is rich, but the workers are few,” a sentiment that resonates deeply in the African context. Despite the growing number of vocations, the pastoral challenges facing priests and nuns continue to multiply, demanding their unwavering dedication and endurance.

Quantifying the contributions of the Christian faith through the work of our indigenous clergy and religious congregations in education, health care, and community support reveals a staggering value—potentially billions in billable hours dedicated to the service of humanity. Indeed, measuring their overall impact may be complex due to the diverse contexts in which they operate, but the positive effects of their work on national development are undeniable and significant.

Thus, the urgent need to address the ongoing attacks on these individuals cannot be overstated. Their service should remain untouched by political ideologies or distortions; at the very least, we should demand a return to decency and justice. Violence against religious personnel is not just an attack on individuals, but an affront to the very principles of compassion and community they embody.

As we celebrate All Souls Day this year, let’s take a moment to remember the missionaries who lost their lives in the line of duty. May they rest in peace and may their steadfast faithfulness inspire us to reflect on our collective responsibilities. It is time for society to confront this growing crisis with urgency and empathy, recognizing that the safety of those who serve us spiritually is a reflection of our own values. It’s not just their situation; it is a mirror held up by our collective consciousness. Let’s not look elsewhere.

Father Augustine Dada is associate pastor at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Elmsford, New York, and supports his home diocese of Ondo, Nigeria.