By our correspondents
Some Christian worshippers in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Friday observed Good Friday, which signifies the suffering, death, and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Our correspondents, who monitored the situation, report that the events featured the re-enactment of Jesus Christ’s suffering, death, and crucifixion, while clerics used the occasion to challenge political leaders in the country to be more sacrificial and selfless, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
At Saint Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Oke Padre, a Passion Play was presented by youths in the church.
The play showcased the trial, suffering, and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the reactions of his attackers, the weeping of his followers, as well as the carrying of his body to the tomb.
Some of the expressions during the play included: “You saved others, why can’t you save yourself?”, “Father, remember me in your kingdom,” and “My God, why have you forsaken me… It is finished.”
In an interview, the Assistant Cathedral Administrator, Reverend Father Anthony Fasakin, said the suffering and death of Jesus Christ was a sacrifice for the forgiveness and redemption of mankind from sin and death.
“It took the infinite God to surrender His only Son, Jesus, as a sacrifice to redeem mankind. Our leaders must learn from Jesus, who was described as a poor king, and meet the yearnings of the masses,”.
Reverend Father Fasakin, who urged political leaders to emulate Jesus Christ, noted that political activities ahead of next year’s general election must not derail them from meeting the aspirations of the people.
Speaking in the same vein, the Pastor-in-Charge of Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Imole, Alase, Moniya, Ibadan, Pastor Isaiah Fajuyagbe, urged political office holders to strive for peace and development in the nation.
Pastor Fajuyagbe noted that leadership comes with great sacrifice and selflessness, which must not be compromised.
He also urged followers to be alive to their responsibilities by supporting those in leadership positions, adding that the death of Jesus Christ should serve as a moment of sober reflection for the development of mankind.
In his submission, the Shepherd-in-Charge of Celestial Church of Christ, Founder’s Parish 2, Wire and Cable, Apata, Ibadan, Prophet Imoleayo Akinnagbe, admonished Christians to maintain holy lives, as exemplified by Jesus Christ in his journey for the redemption of mankind.
Prophet Akinnagbe, who said Jesus Christ had paid the supreme price for humanity’s freedom, emphasised that living holy lives remains the best way to appreciate his sacrifice, rather than crucifying him a second time.
He also urged Christian faithful to use the season to pray for the nation’s leaders and for national prosperity.
Similarly, the Venerable Superior Evangelist Emmanuel Shoyoye of Celestial Church of Christ, Covenant Parish, Jiboye, Apata, Ibadan, enjoined Christians to use the period for prayers and reflection on the sacrifices of Jesus Christ.
Evangelist Shoyoye noted that Good Friday symbolises the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for the salvation of humanity, serving as a reminder of God’s love and redemption.
Reflecting further on the significance of the day, he explained that the sacrifice of Jesus’ crucifixion extends beyond Christianity, with its impact felt across cultures and societies, while also emphasising the need for forgiveness and the triumph of hope over adversity.
Edited by Olaolu Fawole
