By Peter Agengre
Christians in Bawku united to celebrate Easter, calling for love, peace, and sacrifice amid the town’s ongoing chieftaincy conflict. Correspondent Peter Agengre fellowshipped with the congregation of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Bawku and reports that the Easter celebration was marked by reflection, charity, and gratitude, with parishioners offering gifts to support their church.
Dressed in festive attire, parishioners prayed for peace in Bawku, even as a curfew remains in place. Some shared their thoughts with GBC News.
“Usually, on Easter days we don’t close this early. A lot of activities have been cut short because of the curfew and the circumstances in which we find ourselves. But we are hopeful that by next year, the town will be safe and we will have blissful Easter celebrations,” said Adams Taibatu Thelma.
“We didn’t even know we would be able to come to church today, but God has made it possible and brought us here to celebrate the season. We give thanks to Him for the glory and pray that through His resurrection, lasting peace will return to Bawku,” added Sacristan Grace Felatiga.
Other parishioners prayed for love, unity, and healing.
“This is actually the time when we can pray, and God will accept our prayers to bring peace to Bawku,” Elder Peter Asaal said.
“Let’s love each other — especially the people of the Bawku Municipality. Let’s care for one another and forget about all that has happened. Let’s take this resurrection as a new life to continue living in peace and harmony,” urged a member of the Catholic Women Association.
The Parish Priest of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Paul Kapochina, encouraged the faithful to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice, praying for healing, forgiveness, and peace.
“The message of forgiveness must resound in our hearts. Until we learn to forgive, there will never be peace. Revenge should never be part of us, because it doesn’t end well — but forgiveness brings peace,” Fr. Kapochina preached.
At present, the township of Bawku remains calm, with businesses operating as they would on any regular day. The prayer of many is that the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and His blood on the soil will bring finality to the security challenges in the area.