By Chikezie Ogbonna
In a solemn evening Ash Wednesday Mass held at the Holy Family Arena within the Holy Ghost Cathedral Enugu, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, delivered a thought provoking message emphasizing the significance of the day in the Christian calendar.
Addressing the faithful, Bishop Onaga underscored the dual symbolism of Ash Wednesday, describing it as a time for penance and a stark reminder of human mortality. “Today,” he remarked, “we acknowledge our sins and express our desire for atonement. We also confront the sobering reality of our mortality, acknowledging that one day we shall return to dust.”
The Bishop emphasized the importance of genuine repentance, urging worshippers to reflect on their actions and embrace a renewed commitment to righteousness. “Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a period of six weeks dedicated to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving,” he explained. “It is a time for spiritual purification, a journey towards reconciliation with God.”
Highlighting the cardinal pillars of Lent, Bishop Onaga elaborated on the transformative power of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. “Prayer,” he asserted, “serves as a vehicle for spiritual purification, fostering a deeper connection with the divine.” He emphasized the need for fasting as a means of self-denial, enabling believers to focus their energies on spiritual growth and sanctification.
Regarding almsgiving, the Bishop stressed the importance of humility and discretion in charitable acts. “Charity,” he noted, “must be performed with sincerity and humility, without seeking recognition or acclaim. It is a manifestation of love and compassion towards others.”
In light of current challenges facing Nigeria, Bishop Onaga called for fervent prayers for the nation’s well-being. He urged all citizens to play their part in building a better society, emphasizing the importance of collective effort and unity.
As the congregation observed Ash Wednesday, Bishop Onaga concluded with an important reminder, urging worshippers to embody the spirit of love and compassion, particularly in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. “Let us strive to be vessels of love,” he exhorted, “knowing that love is the cornerstone of our faith and the pathway to a better world.”
With hearts renewed and spirits fortified, worshippers departed the Holy Family Arena, carrying with them the solemn call to repentance, the reminder of mortality, and the promise of spiritual renewal in the Lenten season ahead.
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