VICTORIA, Seychelles — Believers gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Victoria yesterday afternoon to attend the Ash Wednesday service, which marks the first day of Lent, the six weeks, or 40 days of penitence before Easter. Lent serves as a time for Christians to reflect, repent and prepare spiritually for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.
The service was presided over by Father David Alcindor, who during his sermon noted that Lent is a time for Christians to reflect on their lives and behaviour, serving as a period of penitential preparation leading up to Easter. He reminded the congregation that Lent is not only about self-discipline, but also about giving back to others and strengthening one’s connection with God through prayers and reflections. Additionally, he encouraged the faithful to make personal sacrifices, including less time on social media, and in front of the television.
He further noted that God is everywhere with us, even in places we think He does not enter, such as nightclubs. ‘God enters places you think he would not go, for example nightclubs and the ghetto, because He wants to find you, and for you to follow Him,’ he added. Following the sermon, the congregation received a sign of the cross with ashes on their forehead as a reminder of mortal failings and an invitation to receive God’s forgiveness.
