Nigerian Catholics on Sunday marked the solemnity of Christ the King (Corpus Christi) with processions in parishes across the country.
In Lagos, the procession, led by Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins began from the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, and ended at St. Gregory’s College, Obalende.
The Archbishop said that the feast marked the last Sunday of the Catholic liturgical year and the end of the Catholic Year of Mercy as the church awaits advent.
According to the Archbishop, the external solemnisation of the great feast is of great importance to Catholics worldwide.
Martins said that God has no memory of sin and is always willing to forgive.
He urged Christians to embrace a life that is faithful, poor in means, but rich in love.
“Such a lifestyle will be the real legacy of his Year of Mercy, which came to an end, the true door of mercy; which is the heart of Christ, always remains open for us.
.
“God is ready to completely forgive our sins, because his memory unlike our own, does not record evil that has been done or keep score of injustices experienced.
“God has no memory of sin, but only of us; of each of us we who are his beloved children, and he believes that it is always possible to start anew, to raise ourselves up,” he said.
Martins urged Christians to imitate Jesus Christ, by embracing his humble love.
“This year’s procession is different in the sense that the church is ending the Holy Year of Mercy and I am convinced God has answered your prayers and supplications.
“You should endeavour to dedicate few minutes to read and reflect on the word of God,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that priests of the Catholic Church carried the Monstrance during the processions, followed by the religious and laity, who identified with Christ as the symbol of their faith.