The Catholic Priest-in-Charge, Saints Peter and Paul Church, Tedi, Ojo, Lagos, Rev. Fr. Anthony Thompson, on Wednesday urged the faithful to exhibit self denial, charity and pray for the nation during the Lenten season.
Thompson spoke during a Mass celebrated in the church to mark the Ash Wednesday as Nigerian Catholic faithful joined others across the world to celebrate the begining of the season.
The Mass offered the faithful an opportunity for faith renewal in God.
Thompson described the lenten period as a public and regular fasting and prayer season used to ask God for the forgiveness of sin for the common good.
He said the ash administration on the forehead was a show of one’s commitment to the rules and observation of the period.
“The act of self denial is expected of you, especially during this time, as one of the observance that will earn you quality Christian character.
“The quantity and quality of your food intake should be reduced to confom to the season and build in you personal traits devoid of materialistic drive.
“Savings made from reduction in your excessive intake and luxurious lifestyle during this period should be donated to charity without making such almsgiving public.
“This is the right time to pray for your country for God to grant its leaders grace to lead the people right.
“Fast and pray for the development of the society.
“Atonement for one’s sin and that of others this period draws the attention of heaven for forgiveness and blessings,” he said.
