Easter must reawaken passion to develop Ghana – Bawumia
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has rallied Ghanaians to commit to the development of the country as the world marks Easter.
His message on Good Friday said the occasion should reawaken our passion to play a part in Ghana’s development and growth, while we reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ to humanity and await his return to save the world,
“As Christians across the world commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Samira and I wish all a happy Easter,” he said.
On the back of the COVID-19 pandemic that has left devastating effects, he charged Ghanaians to abide by all safety protocols to prevent a rise in infections after the festivities.
“Let’s stay safe and continue to observe COVID-19 protocols during the celebration,” he said.
His message comes a day after President Akufo-Addo entreated Ghanaians to observe a solemn Easter devoid of social funfair to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Mr Akufo-Addo urged travellers and motorists to adhere to road safety protocols to prevent accidents.
“Clearly, my fellow Ghanaians, we are by no means out of the woods and so we will have to endure this year another quiet Easter devoid of public gatherings and the merrymaking that characterise the season,” he advised.
He said there will be no Easter Conventions, Easter Picnics, parties or gatherings at beaches.
“Church services must be held for a maximum of two hours and the requisite social distancing rules must be strictly obeyed.
“Nightclubs, cinemas and pubs continue to be closed. Funerals, concerts, theatrical performances and parties are banned. Private burials with no more than 25 people can take place with the enforcement of the social distancing, hygiene and mask-wearing protocols. Spectators are still banned from going to the stadia to watch football matches”.
What is Easter?
Easter is a Christian festival that celebrates the belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In the New Testament of the Bible, the resurrection is said to have occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died in roughly 30 A.D.
The festivities conclude the “Passion of Christ,” a series of events and holidays that begin with Lent—a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and sacrifice—and ends with Holy Week.
It includes Holy Thursday which marks the celebration of Jesus’ Last Supper with his 12 disciples, Good Friday on which Jesus’ crucifixion is observed and Easter Sunday or Resurrection Sunday when Jesus is believed to have risen from death and ascended into heaven.
Although a holiday of high religious significance in the Christian faith, many traditions associated with Easter date back to pre-Christian times.