AdminCatholic Bishops of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province have suspended masquerade dancing in minor and senior seminaries, citing the degradation of Christian values and the rise of neopaganism.
This decision was reached during a meeting of the bishops held at the Basilica of Holy Trinity, Onitsha, on Tuesday, January 14th, 2025.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe suspension, which takes immediate effect, applies to all minor and senior seminaries within the province.
Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia Catholic Diocese, has also directed that the suspension be extended to all Catholic secondary schools in the Diocese.
Organising masquerade dancing during events in churches and missionary schools in the South-east is something that became fashionable in recent years. Some observers said it is a way of promoting African tradition and integrating into church activities.
However, the bishops said such practice is now taking a negative dimension against what they preach as Christian faith.
Increase in Stipend for sacraments
In another development, the provincial bishops also announced an increase in stipends for various sacraments.
The stipend which takes effect from Ash Wednesday, 5th of March 2025 include:
– Mass Booking: ₦500.00
– Baptism: ₦500.00
– Confirmation: ₦500.00
– Wedding: ₦1000.00
The clerics explained that the increment was made due to the present realities in the country and geared towards striking a reasonable balance.
The Bishops reiterated the fact that priests for pastoral reasons and adequate care of the people of God are expected to offer masses and prayers for them and perform other sacramental functions with or without payment of stipends as stipulated above.
These moves by the Onitsha Provincial Bishops are seen as a significant step in promoting Christian values and maintaining the integrity of the faith.
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