Unitatis Media

COMWEEK 2026: OPENING MASS MARKS THE BEGINNING OF COMMUNICATION WEEK IN JALINGO DIOCESE

The 2026 Communication Week in the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo officially began with a solemn Opening Mass on Monday, 11th May 2026, at the Chapel of St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral Centre, Shavou Mile Six, bringing together priests and lay faithful in joyful celebration.

In his homily, the Chief Celebrant, Bishop Charles Michael Hammawa, reflected on the significance of the 5th year of Communication Week as initiated by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and coordinated through Directors of Social Communications.

Bishop Charles emphasized that social communication remains a vital mission of the Church and that modern means of communication should be used for the propagation of the Gospel. He reminded the faithful that information spreads “at the speed of light,” therefore communicators must share messages that promote truth, justice, peace, unity, and human dignity. He further encouraged everyone to use their God-given talents and intellect for the glory of God and the development of both spiritual and human life, stressing that communication should lead people closer to salvation and peaceful living.

During the Mass, the Director of Social Communications, Rev. Fr. Abraham Saumam, welcomed everyone and introduced the theme of this year’s Communication Week: “Preserving Human Voices and Faces,” which is inspired by the Pope's message on the 60th celebration of World Communications Day.

The Director noted that the Opening Mass is the first of its kind in the Diocese and highlighted the Church’s annual observance of World Communications Day instituted by the Second Vatican Council through the document, “Inter Mirifica.” Reflecting on the Holy Father’s message for the 2026 World Communications Day, he emphasized that communication is deeply human and sacred, warning against allowing technology and artificial intelligence to overshadow authentic human encounters.

The Reverend Father encouraged all the faithful to actively participate in the week’s activities through parish engagements, workshops, publications, broadcasts, media outreach, and digital evangelization aimed at making Christ known in the world today.

Rev. Fr. Saumam also expressed gratitude to Bishop Hammawa, priests, Unitatis Media staff, social media followers, and all supporters of the Diocese’s communication apostolate for their dedication and collaboration.

The celebration ended with fellowship and refreshments hosted by the Office of Social Communications.

May the Lord make our words instruments of peace, truth, and love in a world longing for hope. May every message we share draw hearts closer to Christ and to one another. Amen.