Hundreds of Catholics gathered at St Peter’s Nsambya Parish to commemorate Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the Lenten season in the Catholic Church.
During the solemn Mass, the faithful received the ash cross on their foreheads — a symbolic ritual signifying the start of the 40-day period of prayer, fasting and repentance leading to Easter.
The ceremony, reflecting humility and spiritual renewal, drew believers of all ages seeking to strengthen their faith.
The main celebrant, Charles Katongole Kaweesi, urged Christians to embrace Lent as a time of deep reflection and personal transformation.
He called on the faithful to extend help to the needy, stressing the importance of compassion and generosity during the sacred season.
Kaweesi cautioned Christians against turning acts of charity into public displays for recognition, particularly on social media platforms.
He said the true value of giving lies in sincerity and genuine concern for others rather than the pursuit of praise.
“Let your charity come from the heart,” Kaweesi emphasized, encouraging believers to give quietly and faithfully.
Lent is observed by Christians worldwide as a period of sacrifice, self-discipline and spiritual growth, preparing the faithful for Easter — the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of Christian belief.
