The Parish Priest of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Very Rev. Fr. Kale Francis, has
called on Christians not to lose hope despite the prevailing challenges in the country,
urging them to draw strength from the Resurrection of Christ.
Fr. Kale gave this exhortation during the Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Mass, a solemn
liturgy that began with the Service of Light outside the church before the faithful
processed into a darkened sanctuary, symbolising the state of the world before the
light of creation and, ultimately, the light of Christ.
Reflecting on the significance of the Resurrection, the priest emphasized God’s
enduring faithfulness and power to save. He encouraged Christians to remain
steadfast in their trust in God, recalling biblical accounts of divine intervention,
including God’s deliverance of the Israelites at the Red Sea and His provision for
Abraham.
Summarising the rich sequence of scriptural readings, from Genesis, Exodus, and
the Prophets to the New Testament, Fr. Kale highlighted a consistent pattern in
God’s relationship with humanity: a movement from darkness to light, from death to
life, and from bondage to freedom, culminating in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“This is the night God has given us victory over sin, suffering, and death,” he said. “It
is the moment of salvation, when hope is restored and the promise of eternal life is
renewed.”
He, however, lamented the harsh realities facing many Nigerians, noting the
prevalence of violence, insecurity, and hardship. He particularly condemned the
recent killing of Christian worshippers in Jos, praying for the repose of the souls of
the victims and for comfort for their families.
Fr. Kale urged the faithful not to succumb to despair, even in the face of suffering. “In
moments when life appears uncertain and painful, we must hold firmly to the hope
that Christ’s Resurrection brings – a hope that does not disappoint”, he said.
The celebration reached its high points with the return of the Alleluia, marked by the
ringing of bells, the baptism of catechumens, the renewal of baptismal vows by the
congregation, and the sprinkling of holy water – powerful signs of renewal and new
life in Christ.
The Holy Saturday liturgy remains one of the most significant celebrations in the
Church’s calendar, inviting the faithful to journey from darkness into the radiant light
of the Risen Lord.
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