A Catholic priest, Constantine Okoli, has urged Christians to use the Lenten season to grow spiritually and strengthen their relationship with God.

Mr Okoli made the call on Wednesday at Chapel of the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Okpuno, Awka, during activities marking Ash Wednesday.

Ash Wednesday heralds the commencement of the 40-day Lent in the Catholic Church.

The season depicts the period of Jesus’ triumphant entry, his suffering and ultimately his death on the cross; it eventually ushers Christians into Easter.

Lent is characterised by fasting, abstinence and giving of alms.

In his sermon, the cleric explained that Lent is a period set aside for fasting, prayer and almsgiving, which enable Christians to reflect on their relationship with God and live according to His commandments.

He described the season as a grace-filled period for repentance, spiritual renewal and resistance to temptation.

“The season of Lent is upon us, and Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of this spiritual exercise. Christians are called to focus on prayer, fasting and almsgiving,” he said.

According to him, the period offers believers the opportunity to renew their relationship with God, develop personal discipline and grow spiritually.

Mr Okoli also urged Christians to repent of their sins, reconcile with God, forgive others and show kindness to promote peace and spiritual fulfilment in society.

The Lent traditionally begins with the application of ashes on the foreheads of the faithful as a reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance.

(NAN)