By Daniel Agbesi Latsu
Kadjebi (O/R), Feb. 18, GNA – Catholics in the Kadjebi District have joined the global Catholic community to observe Ash Wednesday on February 18.
The Blessed Heart of Mary Parish in Kadjebi, Oti Region, was filled as parishioners gathered for prayers, fasting, and the imposition of ashes to mark the solemn occasion.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Reverend Father Marcus Donkor, Parish Priest of Blessed Heart of Mary Parish, explained that Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten Season on the Catholic calendar.
He described Lent as a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving in preparation for Easter, the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Fr. Donkor noted that after Ash Wednesday, there are five Sundays leading to Palm Sunday, which ushers Christians into Holy Week.
He said the Lenten period is a time for self-examination, repentance, and spiritual renewal.
According to him, Ash Wednesday signifies the need to “acknowledge our nothingness before God” and to “show that we are sorry for our sins.”
He explained that the ashes imposed on the foreheads of the faithful in the shape of the cross are prepared from blessed palm branches used during the previous year’s Palm Sunday celebration.
Rev. Fr. Donkor urged believers to do the will of God, forgive one another, and reconcile with their neighbours. He encouraged parishioners to deepen their relationship with God through confession, acts of charity, and active participation in church activities during the season.
He further called on Christians to support the needy, stressing that the essence of Lent goes beyond abstinence from food to include demonstrating love and compassion to the vulnerable in society.
Some parishioners who spoke to the GNA expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness another Lenten season. They said the observance reminded them of the need to live righteous lives and reflect on their relationship with God and fellow human beings.
The Ash Wednesday celebration in Kadjebi featured Holy Mass, scripture readings, and solemn hymns, setting the tone for the spiritual journey toward Easter.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Audrey Dekalu