26/07/2026
Sacred Heart Catholic Church Airport, ABUJA CELEBRATES 17TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
ABUJA— The Catholic faithful of Sacred Heart Parish, Airport, Abuja gathered on Sunday for the celebration of the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A. The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Donald Jooji, who delivered the homily.
In his sermon, Fr. Donald Jooji reflected on the Gospel parable of the “Treasure Hidden in a Field” from Matthew 13:44. He explained that when the man discovered the treasure, he “went and sold all that he had and bought that field” in order to possess it.
The priest urged parishioners to embrace the Kingdom of God with total commitment, stressing that it requires giving up ungodly habits and worldly attachments.
“Do everything possible to gain the Kingdom of Heaven,” he said. “Do not trade your faith and religious life for the things of this world. Do not give up your faith for anything.”
Fr. Jooji challenged the congregation to examine themselves:
“What are you supposed to give up to possess the Kingdom of Heaven? Why do you give up the Kingdom to purchase worldly things?”
He lamented that many people devote time to social gatherings, parties, and gist, but find it difficult to spend even 20 minutes in prayer or attend Church.
“Give up all those things that keep you away from God and ‘purchase’ the Kingdom of Heaven,” he admonished.
Drawing from the First Reading, the priest cited King Solomon as a model of wisdom. He noted that although Solomon was given a “blank cheque” by God to ask for anything, he wisely asked for “an understanding heart to govern God’s people.”
“Be thoughtful before you ask,” Fr. Jooji advised. “When opportunity comes, do not waste it. Like Solomon, reflect before you give an answer.”
Concluding, he reminded the faithful that “this world is not the treasure.” He called on them to let go of earthly distractions and strive for heavenly treasures.
Fr. Jooji ended the homily with prayers for God’s grace and blessings upon all parishioners of Sacred Heart Parish.