The President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has appealed to Christian faithfuls to extend a helping hand to those in need.
Archbishop Okoh, in his message to Christians on Wednesday at the commencement of this year’s Lent, reminded Christians of “the significance of the period and what it holds for our faith and our society.”
He equally urged leaders at all levels of governance to recognise the urgency of the economic challenges facing the nation and to take concrete action in providing support for individuals facing economic hardship.
“Let us come together in solidarity and commitment to create a more inclusive and compassionate society where the burdens of the marginalised are alleviated and their voices are heard.
“On behalf of the national leaders CAN I extend my warm greetings to all Christian faithful on the occasion of Ash Wednesday and the commencement of Lent.
“The observance of Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season presents a timely opportunity for self-reflection, repentance, spiritual growth, renewal, and learning to love and be compassionate like Jesus Christ in our daily lives.
“This is a call to action to support those enduring economic hardships in Nigeria, ” he said.
Accordong to Archbishop Okoh, the ashes placed on the foreheads served as a reminder of mortality, humble origin, and how the body of the first man, our forefather Adam, was formed from the earth.
He reminded Christians of the return of their bodies to dust, urging them to
reflect on the purpose and the impact of their actions on the world around them.
“It is a time when we are reminded to grieve for our sins and the sins of our nation and to seek the face of the Lord for forgiveness and restoration.
“During this time of self-examination and sacrifice, we are called to contemplate the ways in which we can contribute to the well-being of others, as Christ, our Lord, will do.
“As we embark on this Lenten journey, our hearts are drawn to the plight of many who struggle to make ends meet, facing financial uncertainty and limited access to basic needs.
“We long for a Nigeria where every individual is afforded the opportunity to thrive, and where our leaders prioritise the well-being of the most vulnerable in our society, ” he added.
The Archbishop enjoined Nigerians to strive in order to build a Nigeria where compassion and support for fellow citizens were central to their values and actions.
