Christian Community Observes Ash Wednesday

Christian community across the world is observing Ash Wednesday marking the beginning of forty days fasting in the Lenten season.

In Nasarawa State, Catholic Bishop of Lafia Diocese, Most Reverend David Ajang used the occasion to call on government to take measures aimed addressing the high cost of living in the country.

In the Catholic calendar, Ash Wednesday usually ushers in Lenten season, marking the commencement of forty day fasting, penance, prayer and arms giving as contained in the canonical gospels where Christians reflect on their salvation’s journey.

In Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, catholic community converged on St Williams Catholic Cathedral for mass as presided over by Bishop David Ajang to commence the religious exercise where ashes were placed on the foreheads of believers as a reminder that from dust they came and unto dust they shall return.

In a homily, the Bishop reminded Christians of the three pillars of the Lenten season to include fasting, prayer and arms giving which are obligatory and must be prioritized, calling on Christian community to see the period beyond abstinence from food but a moment to draw closer to God.

In the next 40 days, Christians are expected to reflect on the agony of Jesus Christ aimed at saving mankind but most importantly, where Bishop Ajang called on government to work out practical measures that will address the high cost of living in the country.

As the Lenten season lasts, some parishioners said the season comes with huge expectations.

The Lenten season will least till 31 of March 2024, marking Easter Sunday, the feast regarded as foundation of Christianity.