Why Christ’s suffering is important to Christians

By Beatrice Obwocha

During Easter, many Christians reflect on the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

To Christians, this is an important holiday that is the pillar of their faith for it marks the ultimate sacrifice by Christ to save mankind from sin.

Nakuru Catholic Diocese Vicar-General Moses Muraya says the passion of Christ is important to Christians.

"This is the time we celebrate Christ and remember the sacrifice of his life and resurrection," he said.

Father Muraya adds: "His resurrection signifies that if one lives according to the will of God, even if they die, they will resurrect when Jesus Christ returns."

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He says resurrection was why, instead of mourning the suffering of Christ, Christians celebrate because they are assured of life after death.

He says Catholic worshippers usually mark a holy week ahead of Good Friday and Easter Monday. They start on Holy Thursday with Mass to commemorate the Last Supper.

They then celebrate Good Friday, with worshippers carrying crosses for five kilometres to commemorate Jesus’ suffering before he was crucified. The journey ends at Christ The King Cathedral with prayers.

On Saturday, Fr Muraya says two evening Masses will be conducted to mark the resurrection of Christ, the second lasting way after midnight.

Modern celebrations

There will also be a Mass at the Cathedral on Easter Monday.

Cultural elements, such as the Easter Bunny and Easter egg hunts, have become part of the holiday’s modern celebrations, and those aspects are often celebrated by many Christians and non-Christians alike.

There are also some Christian denominations which do not celebrate Easter.