ZAMBIA: Lent is a Moment for Introspection and Spiritual Renewal, Says Archbishop of Lusaka
The Archbishop of Lusaka Most Rev. Dr. Alick Banda
Sandra Kunda
As the Catholic faithful entered the season of Lent on the 14th of February 2024, commencing with the solemn observance of Ash Wednesday, the Archbishop of Lusaka Most Rev. Dr. Alick Banda, has urged Christians to open their hearts to God’s call for repentance and reconciliation.
During the Ash Wednesday Evening Mass, at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus, Pope Square in Lusaka, Archbishop Banda, accompanied by H.E. Most Rev. Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, the Apostolic Nuncio to Zambia and Malawi, marked the initiation of this season of introspection and spiritual renewal.
Archbishop Banda emphasized the heart as the symbol of one’s innermost being, urging all to heed the counsel of the prophet Joel and be willing to transform their hearts.
Archbishop Banda explained the significance of fasting on Ash Wednesday, the commencement of the Lenten season saying this act is not merely an outward expression but a reflection of the inner reality of one’s heart.
He said the ashes, received in the form of a cross, represent the sincere desire for repentance and a commitment to forging a renewed and harmonious relationship with God and fellow human beings.
Furthermore, Archbishop Banda stressed that the cross, a symbol of peace, serves as a potent tool for Christians to overcome evil with goodness, faithfulness to build bridges of love, respond to offenses with forgiveness rather than revenge, and ultimately seek salvation through the transformative power of the cross.
The Archbishop emphasized the need for Christians to cultivate a spirit of peace and love, transcending tribalism, regionalism, and political differences.
He fervently urged believers to embrace the true love of God during this Lenten season.
Simultaneously, across the country, other dioceses participated in the Ash Wednesday observance, marking the commencement of the holy season of Lent.
Lent, a period of forty days leading to Easter, serves as a time for reflection, intensified prayer, and preparation for the joyous celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead.
ENDS…
