As Bishop Ajose describes Lenten season as a significant event in Xtian calendar
By kayode Olopade
The Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday organized an Ash Wednesday service to mark the commencement of the Christian fasting season of Lent, with the theme, “Repairing the Broken Altar.”
The solemn service was held at the State House Church, Alausa, Ikeja, drawing Christian faithful and government officials together in prayer and reflection.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was represented at the event by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Abube.
In his opening remarks, the governor described the Lenten season as a period of sober reflection, repentance, and renewed closeness to God.
He urged Christians to seek divine forgiveness and remain steadfast in faith despite challenges, encouraging them to “look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” in all circumstances.
Delivering the exhortation, the President Chaplain of Chapel of Christ the Light, Rev. (Dr.) Dele Ajayi, preached from 1 Kings 18:30.
He emphasized that every individual is born with a divine purpose, noting that “none of us came to life by the desire of our parents; we came because God has a purpose for us.”
Rev. Ajayi called on believers to “repair their broken altars,” stressing the need for spiritual restoration and personal revival. He also observed the unique moment of both major religions in the country observing fasting periods simultaneously, describing it as significant for national unity and prayer.
He encouraged Nigerians to take responsibility for the nation’s future through prayer and faith, adding that efforts are ongoing to address the country’s challenges.
Special Adviser to the Lagos State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bishop Taiwo Ajose, also joined the faithful to mark the beginning of Lent.
Speaking during the service, Bishop Ajose described Ash Wednesday as a significant event in the Christian calendar, symbolizing the start of a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and repentance leading up to Easter.
“This is the period we believe we need to pray for our state and our nation,” he said.
“We ask God to grant us the grace to rebuild the broken altars of our state and our country.”
He urged Christians to use the Lenten season to seek God’s guidance, unity, and restoration for Lagos State and Nigeria, expressing hope that sincere repentance and devotion would usher in peace, progress, and divine blessings.
Prayers were offered for the President and his family, the Governor and his family, Lagos State, and Nigeria at large.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent in many Christian denominations and is traditionally observed with the imposition of ashes on the foreheads of worshippers as a symbol of repentance and humility.
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