Ouagadougou: The Metropolitan Archbishop of Ouagadougou, Monsignor Prosper Kontiebo, called upon Christian faithful to retain hope and transition from darkness to light, akin to the resurrected Christ, during the Easter vigil celebrated at the Notre-Dame de l'Immaculee-Conception cathedral.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Eucharistic celebration, which took place from Saturday night into Sunday, saw hundreds of believers gather in an atmosphere imbued with religious devotion to commemorate the resurrection of Christ. The service was presided over by Archbishop Kontiebo, who delivered a message emphasizing hope, reminding the congregation that "Christ's victory over death and the powers of evil is a message of hope for Christian faithful."

In his homily, Bishop Kontiebo outlined three key teachings from the resurrection of Christ. He stressed that the risen Jesus reassures believers that their lives and the world are under God's care, with darkness being temporary. He further stated that Christ's triumph over death also signals the triumph of his followers, as the resurrection guarantees their own renewal. Lastly, he asserted that the risen Christ ushers in a new era for humanity, urging the faithful to transition from darkness to the light of God.

Bishop Kontiebo reiterated that Easter is foundational to the Christian faith, signifying Christ's triumph over death and evil forces. In the face of violence, hatred, illness, and death, which challenge the human spirit, he urged believers to anchor themselves in Christian hope. "By uniting ourselves in the death of Christ, we also participate in his resurrection," he added. The Bishop also prayed for a return to peace in Burkina Faso.

The vigil also saw several baptisms, with the Archbishop explaining that baptism symbolizes an immersion into Christ's death, allowing believers to partake in his resurrection. He encouraged the newly baptized to nurture their faith through personal prayer, participation in the Eucharist, confession, and involvement in foundational Christian communities.

Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo attended the service, extending Easter greetings to the faithful and echoing calls for peace in Burkina Faso. Among the attendees, Ariette Kiendrebogo expressed her joy and prayed for peace in the country, hoping that Christ's resurrection would also lead to employment opportunities for her.