As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark Good Friday, the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Reverend Stephen Dami Mamza, has stressed the spiritual importance of the day, describing it as a solemn reminder of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the salvation of humanity.
Bishop Dami Mamza explained that the day holds a central place in Christian history as a moment for deep reflection on Christ’s love and sacrifice.
“On Good Friday, Christ himself was crucified. It would have been a bad Friday, but because of the salvation we received, we call it Good Friday,” he said.
The Catholic Bishop also reflected on the tradition of fasting and abstinence, particularly the custom of not eating meat on Good Friday.
“In the past, meat was a luxury. Even today, many consider it special. Abstaining from it helps us identify with Christ’s suffering,” he noted.
He added that depending on local cultures, individuals can choose to give up other cherished foods like fish as a form of sacrifice.
The cleric further expressed concern over the state of insecurity in the country.
“It is really very sad what is happening. Citizens have the right to protection, and it is the responsibility of government to safeguard lives and property,” he stated.
Bishop Dami Mamza urged Nigerians to embrace the virtues of peace, sacrifice, and love exemplified by Jesus Christ, and to reflect these values in their daily lives and communities.
Christians Urged to Deepen Prayers, Fasting, and Charity
Also Christians in Gombe State have been urged to use the periods of Good Friday and Easter Monday to intensify their efforts in fasting, prayers, and almsgiving to fully benefit from the spiritual blessings of the season.
The Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Gombe State Chapter, Rev. Joseph Shinga, during in an interview said, that fasting, prayers, and acts of charity are vital components of Easter observances, and every Christian is expected to participate in these practices to receive the blessings associated with the period.
He stressed the importance of dedicating prayers for Nigeria particularly in light of the current challenges facing the country.
The clergyman described Easter as a time to extend love to others and emulate the exemplary life of Jesus Christ. He encouraged Christians to live in peace with their Muslim neighbors and foster unity, which he said is key to building a peaceful and harmonious society.
Also speaking with Radio Nigeria, a community leader from Alheri area in Gombe metropolis, Mr. Ayuba Markus, expressed gratitude to God for the relative peace in the state.
He urged Christians to continue to pray for sustained peace and unity in Nigeria.
A cross section of Nigerians thanked God for the opportunity to celebrate Easter and prayed to celebrate many more in good health .
They advised Christians to support their neighbors, especially the needy, through almsgiving, fasting, and prayer.
