Catholics in Nigeria go black on Ash Wednesday; Bishops declare
Bishops in Nigeria in a recent statement issued which is to be read across all Catholic churches in the country have directed the faithful to wear black ensemble on Wednesday February 26 which marks Ash Wednesday, to mourn those killed in kidnapping and other violent attacks across the country and also to mourn with families of such attacks.
“As a mark of mourning for all our brothers and sisters who have been victims of the most recent wave of violence against Christians, we are all dressed in black today and offer our prayers and penance for their repose, “We invite the universal church and all Christians to join us in prayers for our dead brothers and sisters and for peace and security in Nigeria. the Bishops noted.
The Bishops' Conference also placed further call on the government to buckle up and trim down the violent attacks against citizens noting the church's moral role in shaping society and the international community to help fight terrorism in Nigeria.
The prelates explain “the consequences, should they succeed, will be grave not only for the West African sub-region but also for Africa as a whole, “The repeated barbaric executions of Christians by Boko Haram insurgents and incessant cases of kidnapping for ransom linked to the same group and other terrorists have traumatised many citizens."
The statement comes weeks after attacks were launched on the church, more recently claiming the life an 18-year old seminarian.
Source: lumenchristidaily.blogspot.com
Comments