Accra: Catholics have been urged to reflect deeply on the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a transformative reality that draws believers closer to God and offers hope, peace, and renewal. Reverend Father Pius Kofi Asare, OFM Conv., Parish Priest of St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at Awoshie-Anyaa in Accra, gave the exhortation during a sermon at the Resurrection Sunday Mass.
According to Ghana News Agency, Reverend Father Asare highlighted that the resurrection of Jesus Christ, commemorated on Easter Sunday, symbolized the triumph of life over death, the forgiveness of sins, and the promise of eternal life. He explained that Easter marked the climax of the Paschal Mystery and signaled the end of the Lenten season. He urged Catholics to move from spiritual 'death' to renewed lives of faith, gratitude, and purposeful living.
Reverend Father Asare emphasized that the resurrection provided Christians with a direct and living connection to God, encouraging them to experience 'little resurrections' in their daily lives through healing, hope, and personal transformation. He called on Christians to embody compassion, kindness, and love as visible reflections of Christ's victory over sin and death.
For Catholics, the celebration of Easter begins with the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night and continues with Masses on Easter Sunday, featuring the lighting of the Paschal Candle, which symbolizes Jesus Christ as the 'Light of the World'. Described as the 'feast of feasts', Easter is the most significant event in the Christian liturgical calendar, fulfilling the promise of redemption.
In addition to church services, many Catholics mark the occasion with family gatherings, special meals, and symbols representing new life.