EDITOR
Hundreds of Christians gathered at Rushoroza Hill in Southern Division, Kabale Municipality, on Wednesday to mark the beginning of Lent with a solemn Ash Wednesday Mass led by the Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira.
The prayers, held at Rushoroza Pastoral Centre, attracted the faithful from across the municipality and neighboring areas who converged to usher in the 40-day Lenten season — a sacred period dedicated to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
In his homily, Bishop Rubaramira called on Christians to embrace Lent as a time of deep spiritual reflection and renewal. He urged believers to examine their relationship with God and with one another, emphasizing repentance and reconciliation.
“This is a season of repentance, forgiveness, and renewal,” the Bishop said. “Let us take this opportunity to reconcile with God and with our brothers and sisters. Let us return to the Lord with sincere hearts.”
He encouraged Christians to promote unity within their families and communities, noting that genuine faith must be reflected in daily actions marked by love, humility, and compassion. He reminded the congregation that Lent is not merely a ritual, but a transformative journey that calls for a true change of heart.
During the celebration, ashes were imposed on the foreheads of the faithful as a symbolic reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance. The congregation observed moments of silence and prayer, setting a reflective tone for the season.
Preaching at the same Mass, the Bishop’s Secretary, Rev. Fr. Placid Mugumya, emphasized the importance of upholding Christian values throughout the Lenten period. He urged believers to practice humility, self-discipline, and charity, especially toward the vulnerable in society.
“Fasting should help us grow spiritually and appreciate the forgiveness we have received,” Fr. Mugumya said. “It should draw us closer to God and inspire us to extend love and generosity to others.”
He noted that fasting goes beyond abstaining from food, explaining that it involves making meaningful sacrifices that foster spiritual growth and moral renewal. He encouraged Christians to abandon harmful habits and embrace virtues that strengthen their faith.
Earlier in the day, the Ash Wednesday Mass was also presided over by Fr. Fred Birungi, Parish Priest of Christ the King Parish, who called on believers to observe Lent with sincerity and commitment.
Fr. Birungi explained that Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the 40-day journey toward Easter, commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He described the season as a time of preparation, self-examination, and renewed dedication to Christian teachings.
As the faithful dispersed after the service, many expressed hope that the Lenten season would inspire personal transformation and strengthen bonds within their communities. Church leaders reiterated that through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity, Christians can experience true spiritual renewal and prepare worthily for the celebration of Easter.
