Wednesday, November 14, marked Valentine’s Day. A holiday widely celebrated by indulging in something romantic and fun, but that same day, many Catholics and other Christians in Nigeria received a cross made of ash on their foreheads, because it was Ash Wednesday.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, which is observed by fasting, prayer, and penitence. Valentine’s Day has also evolved to include expression of affection between relatives and friends, according to Britannica.
The juxtaposition between the 2024 Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day has sparked a range of emotions and perspectives in the country, findings by The Explainer show.
The senior pastor and founder of Zion Flames Prophetic and Intercessory Ministries (ZFPIM), Apostle Promise Momo, sees the coincidence as a divine message, interpreting it as a call for humanity to return to God and forsake evil ways.
“As Christians, Ash Wednesday is a period of prayer, fasting, and alms-giving. 2023 and 2024 coincided with Valentine’s Day. It is a sign from God that He wants us to return to Him.
“That means we need to be cautious of the two beautiful events to maintain a balance, by being realistic about the fact that rules are made for men and not the other way round, ” he said.
On the other hand, Veronica Ikobi, a network marketer said, regardless of their distinct religious significance, both occasions are opportunities to express affection and care for others.
The president of the Catholic Women Organisation in Saints Joachim and Anne, Ijegun, Jennifer Okonyia, finds significance in the historical narrative of St Valentine’s self-sacrifice and its correlation with Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent.
“The self-sacrifice of priest Valentine to a man and his family to promote the spirit of love coinciding with Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent telling us to leave every negative thing and apply humility and love,” she said.
Meanwhile, The Explainer reported that there was a surge in the demand for intimate accessories such as discreet vibrators, handcuffs, bondage gear, lingerie, and cakes, as youths in the country prepared for Valentine’s Day.
Our Correspondent visited some shopping malls in Abuja metropolis and Karu in Nasarawa State, to observe how lovers and retailers were preparing for the day, also known as Lovers Day.
Due to the ongoing economic crisis in the country, a popular X critic, Daniel Regha, cautioned the youth about the cost of raising a child before using the day for intimate activities.
“Before lying in bed with any man on Valentine’s Day, young ladies should consider these costly yet necessary baby items.
