Posts by Fr. Maurice Emelu
I AM: Finding Purpose in Doing One’s Task
After my early morning hours of encounter—praying the Rosary and sitting in the quiet glow of Adoration—I turn to Sacred Scripture. It’s Sunday, the Lord’s Day, and I feel drawn to linger longer in reflection. Today, I revisit my homily, which I began preparing a few days ago. Before I can speak the good news…
Read MoreA Newfound Insight on Prayer as Intimacy
Prayer takes many forms, and we appreciate it in many ways. We may see it as communication with God, a simple conversation with our Creator, a surge of the soul to God, or a deeper dialogue that reflects our relationship with the Lord. Each perspective emphasizes various aspects of prayer. Recently, I discovered a deeper…
Read MoreTrue Friendship
What defines a true friend? The following is a biblical perspective from the Book of Sirach, chapter 6. When I was younger, I didn’t think much about this question. Life as a child, teenager, or young adult offers endless growth and learning opportunities. What excites us now often becomes trivial later. As we grow,…
Read MoreOur Mother and the Mother of God
This article explores the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. It shows its deep ties to the mystery of Christ, and how honoring Mary leads us closer to true worship of her Son. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May God’s choicest blessings be yours throughout this new year (2025), the Jubilee of Hope. Amen.…
Read MoreTen Blessings of a Holy Family
Previously, I reflected on the ten qualities of a holy family. Now, I meditate on some of the blessings a holy family enjoys. Scripture reveals many blessings for families striving for holiness. Drawing from Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14; 1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28; Psalm 128; Colossians 3:12-21 or 3:12-17; 1 John 3:1-2, 21-24; and Luke 2:41-52, I…
Read MoreTen Qualities of the Holy Family
The Feast of the Holy Family on December 29 offers a beautiful opportunity to reflect on the qualities that define a holy family. I draw these qualities from the biblical and liturgical readings for the feast. They include Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14; 1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28; Colossians 3:12-21 or 3:12-17; 1 John 3:1-2, 21-24; and Luke…
Read MoreA Life-Changing Christmas Moment
It was a quiet Christmas morning, one of those days when the world feels still like it’s holding its breath. I was 17 years old, serving at the bishop’s residence in the small town of Orlu, Nigeria. Orlu, in the warm eastern part of the country, is a place where smiles are easy, voices are…
Read MoreThe Feast of Christ the King: Its History and Significance
The Feast of Christ the King is a pivotal celebration in the Church. It prioritizes Christ’s universal kingship. Reflecting on its historical background deepens our connection to this solemn feast and centers us on our spiritual core. In this article, I set my thoughts against a turbulent yet pivotal time when Pope Pius XI established…
Read MoreOn the Gift of Wisdom
A reflection on the gift of wisdom and its relevance to setting the right priorities. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where everything feels complicated, and no matter how hard you try, the solution seems elusive? I’ve been there, feeling lost at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take. In moments like…
Read MoreRadical Generosity: A Story of Unfamiliar Grace
It’s not just about giving, but about giving in a way that challenges societal norms and personal comfort, inspired by the radical generosity of God. She is well-loved but often judged as being naive. Her generosity—details I won’t provide here—shocks family and friends. Many of her friends believe she allows herself to be taken advantage…
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