Catholic Priest Urges Faithful to Put God Above Material Wealth

By Oloniyo Victoria Francisca

ILE-IFE, Osun State, June 28, 2026 — A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Afolabi, has urged Christians to remain steadfast in their commitment to God, warning that the pursuit of material wealth must never take precedence over faith.

Fr. Afolabi gave the charge during his homily at the Sunday Mass celebrated at the Catholic community in Parakin, Ile-Ife.

Reflecting on the day’s first reading, he recounted the story of the wealthy Shunammite woman who generously welcomed the Prophet Elisha into her home. According to the priest, her hospitality reflected a deep recognition of God’s presence in His servant, and her faithfulness was rewarded with the gift of a son after years of childlessness.

Speaking on the second reading, Fr. Afolabi explained that baptism signifies a believer’s union with the death and resurrection of Christ. He encouraged Christians to renounce sin and embrace a renewed life rooted in holiness and obedience to God.

Turning to the Gospel, the priest stressed that no one can genuinely serve both God and worldly possessions. He reminded the faithful that discipleship often demands sacrifice, drawing a parallel between the challenges Christians face and Christ’s journey to Calvary.

He noted that those who seek to preserve their earthly comfort at the expense of their faith risk losing eternal life, while those willing to endure suffering for Christ will ultimately receive God’s reward.

“Whoever does not want to be humiliated or killed for Christ’s sake in order to save his life will lose it, but those who lose their lives will be saved,” he said.

Fr. Afolabi concluded by assuring the congregation that God rewards every act of faithful service, adding that those who labour for Christ, whether as prophets or righteous people, will not be denied their heavenly reward.