The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Paulinus Chukwuemeka Ezeokafor, has advised Christians to move closer to God by engaging in charity and almsgiving during the Lenten season, report Ebube Edieh
The prelate said this during his Homily at the Eucharistic celebration to mark the 2024 Ash Wednesday, which signified the beginning of a 40-day lent.
The Catholic Church observes the period, beginning with the application of ash on the forehead, a reminder that ‘from ash we came and to ash we will return’. The Lent which is mandatory for all Christian faithful as demonstrated by Jesus Christ, will lead to Easter celebration.
To commemorate the day, some Christian denominations, such as Catholic and Anglican Churches, organise services during which the foreheads of the congregants are marked with ash with the sign of the cross.
Speaking on the significance of Ash Wednesday, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor, said it afforded Christians the opportunity to retrace their steps to God and prepare for the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
While calling on Nigerian leaders to use the period to reflect on the leadership style of Jesus Christ who came to serve humanity, Bishop Ezeokafor urged that the lessons of the season be put into practice beyond the period.
He also enjoined political leaders to pray for the right direction to surmount insecurity, kidnapping, banditry and hunger in the country.
The prelate stressed the need for Christians to move closer to God because they would give accounts of their deeds on earth before their Creator.
He also called on Christians to use the Lenten Period to pray, amend their ways, read the Bible and engage in almsgiving to enjoy the uninterrupted blessings of God.
