What does it take to become a saint? On 16 July 1228, barely two years after his death, Pope Gregory IX canonised St. Francis of Assisi. Francis embraced poverty and served lepers. His canonisation recognised a holiness cultivated through a lifetime surrendered to Christ.
The first reading, from the Book of Revelation, presents a multitude from every nation, tribe and language standing before God’s throne. Among them are people whose names history has forgotten but whose lives heaven remembers. For us Africans, sainthood is not a distant European achievement; it is our universal Christian vocation. It begins in our homes, communities and workplaces.
In the Gospel, Jesus gives us the roadmap: the Beatitudes. Poverty of spirit teaches humility; mourning awakens compassion; meekness inspires gentleness; hunger for righteousness demands justice; mercy teaches forgiveness; purity calls for sincerity; peacemaking challenges divisions; perseverance strengthens us amid persecution.
Imagine an Africa where everyone strives for sainthood: families would become places of love, communities of peace and societies of justice. How beautiful to have leaders whose lives reflect holiness! As we pray for the eventual canonisation of Julius Nyerere, may his example inspire African leaders.
Dear friends, holiness is God’s grace at work in surrendered lives. We are called not merely to admire the saints, but to become saints. Then Africa, too, will reflect heaven’s glory. Amen.
Fr. Kingsley Nze
Director of Pastoral Affairs
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