The Catholic Church in Nigeria in contemporary society

The Church does not fear innovation; instead, she fears distortion of the Gospel. Indeed, not all creativity is evangelical, and not every adaptation serves the Gospel.

Authentic inculturation involves a double movement: the Gospel purifies culture, and culture enriches the Church. Where there is no balance between the two, innovation becomes syncretism if culture dominates, and evangelisation becomes colonisation if culture is ignored.

Secularism and dechristianisation require taking “courageous action, accompanied by innovation, clear analysis and trust in the power of the Holy Spirit” – Pope John Paul II

Before departing the world and in continuation of this salvation plan, Christ instituted the Eucharist at the Last Supper and entrusted it to the Church to ensure the sacrifice continues to be brought into being till eternity.

Innovation runs throughout salvation history, and it is grounded in God’s response to humanity’s sinfulness.