The Metropolitan Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama has advised Christians to engage in charity and alms giving during the Lenten season.
The prelate gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, as Christians mark the Ash Wednesday, which signifies the beginning of the 40-day fasting.
NAN reports that the Roman Catholics observe the period beginning with the application of ashes on the forehead, a reminder that “from ash we came and to ash we will return’’.
“The life of a Christian will be complete only when we show love, support and share with the poor in the society.
“What we find in our society today is sadly the reality of ‘blind guides’,” he said.
The archbishop explained that some religious men and women who pose as ministers of God, “are ignorant about what true religion is”.
“ There are some leaders who occupy big positions of responsibility today but lack the disposition to make such offices function properly.
The archbishop said that the current war between Russia and Ukraine was a failure in human compassion and the consequence of failure to listen to the voice of reason.
Kaigama said the Pope Francis had called for prayers and fasting on Ash Wednesday for peace across the world.
Also, His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, former Archbishop of Abuja Dioceses, told NAN that the fasting must be accompanied by prayers.
He added that Christians must eschew hatred and learn to forgive at all times, as “hatred and unforgiveness could hinder answers to prayers”.
According to him, fasting releases God’s supernatural power that causes breakthroughs.
He also spoke on the significance of fasting and prayers.
SOURCE: NAN
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