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Christians mark beginning of Lent

By LABAN ROBERT February 19th, 2015 1 min read

Thousands of Christians thronged churches countrywide for Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Lent period.

Mombasa Holy Ghost Cathedral Parish priest John Correa said Lent season should remind Christians of their obligations to one another and to God.

“We have begun the period of Lent as a reminder of our relationship with God. We start a new journey in Jesus Christ by repenting,” Fr Correa said.

He advised Christians to support one another materially, spiritually and psychologically.

Mrs Kim Aaron, who has celebrated Lent for 58 years, said it is a moment of prayers.

“It is a time of reflection. This is the time I come closer to God,” she said.

PASSION OF CHRIST

For Ruki Mbithi, 60, Ash Wednesday marks fasting for others who need help.

At the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi, Bishop David Kamau told thousands of worshipers to fast and show kindness to the needy during the Lent period.

During this period, Christians worldwide mark the Passion of Christ.

Ash Wednesday is observed across the world by Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists, Presbyterians to mark the beginning of the 40 days of Lent.

The Lent period culminates in Easter celebrations, which mark the end of fasting.

It marks the first of the 40 days of Lent, a  six-week period (excluding Sundays) dedicated to reflection, prayer and fasting in preparation for Easter.

The ash, applied in the shape of a cross, is a symbol of penance, mourning and mortality.