Cathedral Church, Kohima celebrated “Ash Wednesday” Holy mass with the imposition of ashes presided over by vicar general of the diocese of Kohima, Rev. Fr. Carolus Neisalhou.
In his homily Rev. Fr Carolus spoke of the three traditional pillars of Lenten observance namely, prayer, fasting and almsgiving. He said, the Church focuses on these three aspects to help us grow inwardly and to transform the external profession of faith and action into living relationship with God.
Just like some tablets that are bitter in taste but good for our body so also Lent is a time for us to change our lives and grow in holiness, he added.
In the evening a second service was held at Cathedral Church presided over by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, bishop of Kohima.
During the homily he stressed the perennial teaching of the Church that God was a loving and merciful Father who invite and waits for His children to return to Him.
It may be mentioned that, celebration of “Ash Wednesday” marks the beginning of the season of Lent, a season in which Christians prepare spiritually for the great mysteries of Christian faith – the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus.
SFXCC: St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church Kidima (SFXCC) under diocese of Kohima also observed Ash Wednesday with parish priest, Revered Father Thomas Muttathil as main celebrant on March 1 at church premises.
During the observation, Revered Father Thomas Muttathil said the church had invited the faithful to repent from their sin and forgiveness from God for preparation of Easter celebration and to inherit eternal life. Parish priest called upon the faithful not to go away from God by committing sin. He urged the people to lead good life and acquire peace and attain salvation.
Anointing holy ash to faithful, Holy Mass celebration and enchanting Lenten hymn were the highlights for the day of the liturgy.