Christians have been advised to ensure they are medically fit before observing the Lenten fasting exercise.

The Catholic Priest of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Utako, Abuja, Reverend Father Sebastian Sanni, gave the advice during the Ash Wednesday Eucharistic celebration in Abuja on Wednesday.

According him, “The fasting does not only requires spiritual growth and repentance, it also requires one to be medically fit, in order to have smooth spiritual exercise.”

The Ash Wednesday is the first holy day in the Christian liturgical calendar that marks the beginning of lent, a period of 40 days of prayer, fasting and repentance.

“Lent is a season of fasting, prayers, aims giving, deep reflection and total submission to God, where Christians receive ashes on their forehead as a symbol of repentance, humility, reconciliation and transformation.

“As Christians, the Lenten season is an invitation for us to return to the Lord and seek repentance of heart, which is the best we can do for our life.”

Rev Fr Sanni urged Christians to use the season to seek reconciliation with God and humanity, adding that, “If your are fasting and you keep malice with your brothers and sisters, your fasting cannot be answered.”

He further stated the best investment one can do in the Lenten season is to reach out to people who were in need in a manner that reflect the teaching of Christ.”

Daily Trust reports that this year’s Lent commenced on the 18th of February and will end on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday, according to the Christian liturgical calendar, 2026. (Channels)