The 40-day Lenten fasting and praying observed by Christian faithful culminated in Easter Sunday celebrations marked by solemn reflection and renewed spiritual conviction across churches.
At the Cathedral Church of the Advent, worshippers gathered in large numbers for a thanksgiving service presided over by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Henry Ndukuba, who served as Chief Celebrant.
Delivering a sermon drawn from the Gospel according to Matthew 28:1–10, and themed *“The Living Hope,”* the Primate underscored the centrality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ to the Christian faith, describing Easter as “the celebration of great news and abiding gladness.”
Ndukuba said Christ’s resurrection represents a defining moment for humanity, offering believers a pathway to eternal hope. He emphasised that by conquering death, Jesus secured for all who believe in Him the promise of everlasting joy and redemption.
He further urged worshippers to interpret the Lenten season—characterised by fasting and prayer—as a period of expectation, noting that the resurrection serves as divine assurance that prayers are heard and answered.
Reflecting on the purpose of human existence, the Primate posed a rhetorical question on the essence of life without Christ, affirming that “He remains ever present with us.” He added that the future of believers is assured, anchored in the redemptive work of Christ, and called for humility and steadfast faith irrespective of life’s circumstances.
Concluding, Ndukuba reaffirmed that Jesus Christ remains “our enduring and everlasting hope,” urging the faithful to live in the fullness of that assurance. Newpot.
