By Peter Oluwasanmi Adubi

The Pontifical Mission Societies (Missio Nigeria), in collaboration with the Pontifical Missionary Union, Rome, successfully organised the Floating Institute of Missiology (FIM) for the Abuja Ecclesiastical Province from 22nd to 26th July 2026 at the Pastoral Centre, Makurdi.

The five-day mission formation programme brought together priests, religious, catechists, and lay faithful from the dioceses of Abuja, Lafia, Idah, Otukpo, Makurdi, Katsina-ala and Gboko. The programme was designed to deepen participants' understanding of the Church's missionary mandate and strengthen their commitment to evangelisation in today's rapidly changing world.

The opening Holy Mass was celebrated by the host Bishop, Most Rev. Wilfred Anagbe, CMF, who warmly welcomed the participants. In his homily, he encouraged them to remain steadfast in their missionary vocation despite the many challenges confronting the Church and society. He urged them to continue proclaiming the Gospel with courage, faith, and hope.

In his opening address, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, Rev. Fr. Solomon Patrick Zaku, explained the origin and significance of the Floating Institute of Missiology. He noted that the institute is a mission formation programme approved by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and entrusted to the Pontifical Mission Societies to promote missionary awareness and formation among the People of God in Nigeria.

Throughout the programme, participants received intensive formation on key aspects of the Church's missionary teaching through seven major presentations.

The first presentation, "Situation of Mission in the World: Insights from Evangelii Nuntiandi", explored the biblical and theological foundations of mission, the Church's evangelising mission, and the contemporary challenges facing evangelisation. Participants reflected on the enduring relevance of Evangelii Nuntiandi in inspiring renewed missionary commitment.

The second session, "Missionary Spirituality and New Evangelisation: Insights from Redemptoris Missio and Evangelii Gaudium", examined the missionary mandate of the Church, the importance of missionary spirituality, prayer, and the call to the New Evangelisation as articulated by St. John Paul II and Pope Francis.

Another important presentation focused on "Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue: Insights from Ecclesia in Africa and Vatican II." Participants reflected on the Church's teaching concerning dialogue with other Christian denominations and religions, particularly within the African context, where peaceful coexistence and collaboration are essential for authentic evangelisation.

The fourth presentation examined "The Role of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Missio Ad Gentes", highlighting the history, charisms, and missionary contributions of the four Pontifical Mission Societies in promoting the universal mission of the Church through prayer, charity, sacrifice, and missionary animation.

Recognising the growing influence of digital technology, participants also received formation on "Mission and Communications in the Contemporary World." The session emphasised the responsible and effective use of modern communication tools and digital media for proclaiming the Gospel and reaching wider audiences.

Another highlight of the programme was the reflection on the 2026 World Mission Sunday theme, "One in Christ, United in Mission." Participants examined the message of Pope Leo for the centenary celebration of World Mission Sunday and reflected on the importance of missionary unity within the universal Church.

The final presentation explored the teachings and missionary reflections of Pope Leo, drawing insights from his inaugural Mass homily, his address to the National Directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies, his homily during the Jubilee of Mission, and other audiences. The session encouraged participants to embrace the Holy Father's vision of a missionary Church rooted in communion, witness, and service.

The formation programme concluded with a commissioning ceremony during which eighty one (81) participants were sent forth, in the spirit of the Apostles, to continue proclaiming the Good News in their various dioceses, parishes, and communities. They were encouraged to become true missionary disciples, committed to spreading the Gospel through their words, actions, and faithful witness.

The Floating Institute of Missiology continues to serve as an important platform for missionary formation in Nigeria, equipping clergy, religious, and lay faithful with the knowledge, spirituality, and practical tools required to fulfil Christ's missionary mandate in the contemporary world.