Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade has urged the Christian faithful not to be discouraged by the current reality brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, as they mark the death and resurrection of the saviour, Jesus Christ.
The governor in his Easter message signed by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian Ita, said, “We are at a trying time as a country and as a state,” adding that, “COVID-19 has tested our faith as never before.”
According to Ayade, “Our faith is tested when we are buffeted by a crisis such as the COVID-19. And as believers, the best question to ask when we are sinking is where is our faith? There is no doubt that this COVID-19 pandemic has tested our faith so strangely.
“Today the world is in a perilous time and in a serious crisis as never witnessed before. This pandemic is a unique call for mankind to return to God.
“There is always the temptation to give up hope and abandon our faith. But I encourage you to remain steadfast and hopeful for a better future, as we learn from the lessons and the pains of this pandemic.
“Unusual with the annual celebration which characterises the unique season, our churches and worship centres are today empty of worshippers occasioned by the current lockdown.
“We must, however, continue to hold fast to our belief that our God is the God of the living and not of the dead. The resurrection is our guarantee that even in the midst of death and suffering, God is with us and Christ’s death gives us victory.
“It is therefore, our responsibility as people of faith and goodwill to offer consolation to those in grief, and to the sick, and assistance to those in need.”