By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
Bishop Julius Kundi’s heart bears the weight of unspeakable sorrow. As the shepherd of the Kafanchan Diocese in Nigeria, he has been shouldering an almost unbearable burden in recent years. The relentless wave of violence sweeping across northern Nigeria has left his diocese reeling, with priests, catechists, and lay faithful falling victim to brutal attacks and kidnappings. The pain of losing some of his priests is a grief that cuts deep, akin to a parent mourning the loss of a child.
As a bishop, every priest is a son entrusted to his care. He is responsible for their well-being and spiritual growth. The latest incident, the gruesome murder of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, kidnapped and brutally killed by his abductors, is one more, too many in a sovereign country that is not at war. It is very disturbing to note that such heinous crimes have become all too frequent, with little to no decisive action from the government and security agencies.
Shepherding a diocese is a heavy duty, but a monumental task in these turbulent times. A bishop must skillfully navigate the treacherous landscape of a society torn apart by violence and hostility, all while providing leadership, guidance, and comfort to his flock. As a champion of justice and peace, he must also confront the dark forces of injustice and oppression, standing firm against the tempests of adversity. The weight of this responsibility can be crushing, and the temptation to surrender to despair is ever-present, yet Bishop Kundi and his fellow shepherds persevere, sustained by their faith and their commitment to their flock.
In a powerful statement issued on March 6, 2025, Bishop Kundi gave voice to the outrage and anguish of his flock, expressing his “righteous indignation” over the relentless wave of kidnappings and violence targeting priests, pastoral agents, and the faithful. His condemnation of Fr. Okechukwu’s murder as a “cruel assault on our faith, our humanity, and the peace of our State” echoes the cries of a nation in peril. The bishop’s words serve as a stark reminder of the alarming trend of violence against clergy and faithful in Nigeria – an assault on the very fabric of the nation. Drawing strength from the Gospel, Bishop Kundi and his fellow bishops remain steadfast in their commitment to shepherding their flock, even in the face of danger and adversity. Like the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep (John 10:11), they continue to stand up for justice and peace, their courage, compassion, and faith inspiring hope in a nation torn apart by violence.
As we reflect on the courageous witness of Bishop Kundi and his fellow bishops, let us lift them up in prayer, asking that God grant them the strength, courage, and wisdom needed to shepherd their flocks through these treacherous times. May we also remember the countless innocent lives lost to violence and insecurity in Nigeria, and may their memories stir us to action – to work tirelessly towards a more just and peaceful society, where all people can live without fear of persecution or violence. May we, like the Good Shepherd, be willing to lay down our lives for the sake of others, and may God guide and protect us on this journey. May His peace, which surpasses all understanding, be our comfort and our strength.
