STELLA T
As the holy periods of Lent and Ramadan approach, Christians and Muslims in Rukungiri District have been urged by religious leaders to embrace spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and acts of compassion.
For Christians, the 40-day Lenten season began with Ash Wednesday, a sacred period of repentance, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Rev. Father Vianney Byaruhanga, Dean of Nyakibale Deanery and Parish Priest of Christ the King Church, officiated the Mass, explaining the significance of the ashes applied to worshippers’ foreheads.
“The ashes remind us of our mortality and the need to humble ourselves before God,” Father Byaruhanga said. “Lent is a time for spiritual renewal and turning away from sin.”
He encouraged believers to fully embrace the three pillars of Lent: intensified prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, emphasizing that these practices strengthen relationships with God and foster compassion toward neighbors.
Echoing this message, Fr. Barekye called for reconciliation and peace, urging leaders and communities to promote forgiveness and peaceful coexistence during the 40-day period. He highlighted the importance of inner transformation, encouraging Christians to move beyond superficial rituals toward genuine spiritual conversion.
On the Protestant front, Rev. Syson Gumusiriza, priest at Yakobo Orikwera Church in Nyabitete, North Kigezi Diocese, urged believers to repent and return to God. Citing Matthew 6:16, he emphasized sincere fasting over showy displays: “When you fast, don’t look somber as the hypocrites do… they have received their reward in full.”
Meanwhile, Muslim leaders have also called on followers to prepare spiritually for Ramadan. Imam Abdul-Hamidu Lyaval of Rukungiri Main Mosque reminded worshippers to remain steadfast in faith, avoid bad habits, and focus on acts of kindness, including supporting the needy.
Speaking to Boona FM, Rev. Fr. Cleophas Mugabe, Chaplain of Immaculate Heart Girls and vice-priest at Nyakibale Parish, emphasized the importance of humility and reflection during Lent, quoting Job 42:6: “Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.” He wished all Christians a meaningful and spiritually enriching season.
Religious leaders across Rukungiri continue to guide their communities, highlighting that Lent and Ramadan are not just periods of ritual observance but opportunities for self-discipline, compassion, and spiritual renewal.
As believers prepare for these sacred times, the call is clear: embrace faith, perform good deeds, and strengthen bonds within families and communities.
