The International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS) – Pax Romana, Catholic University of Ghana, Local of St. Augustine’s Chaplaincy, successfully organized its Lenten Recollection as part of activities marking the Lenten season.
Among the participants were Sisters from different congregations studying at the University.
The recollection took place on March 14, 2026 at the Our Lady of Calvary Grotto, located within the Catholic Diocese of Techiman in the Bono East Region of Ghana.
The spiritual exercise was aimed at deepening the faith of students and preparing them meaningfully for the celebration of Easter.
The recollection was centred on the theme: “The Spirit drove Jesus into the desert” (Mark 1:12) with a focus on “Lent as a Period of Purification and Transformation”.
It was preached by Rev. Fr. Pius Frimpong, the Rector of Our Lady of Calvary Grotto, Catholic Diocese of Techiman.
*Lent as a Period of Purification and Transformation*
Rev. Fr. Pius emphasized that Lent is a sacred season dedicated to inner purification and spiritual transformation.
He said just as Jesus was led into the desert, every Christian is called into a spiritual “desert experience” to encounter God deeply.
He explained that, the desert represents a place of “self-discovery and spiritual growth”. Just as Jesus did not go alone, believers should expect temptations and challenges during their spiritual journey.
The 40 days of Lent symbolize a process of preparation, purification, and renewal.
According to the facilitator, human beings, though created in the image and likeness of God, experience “spiritual corruption” affecting the soul, mind, and body.
Lent, he stated, offers an opportunity to cleanse these corruptions.True purification begins from within, not merely through external actions.
He referenced “Ephesians 4:22–24”, urging Christians to put off the old self, be renewed in the spirit of the mind. Put on the new self created in righteousness
Fr. Pius likened human life to “raw materials” that must undergo a process before becoming a masterpiece.
Similarly, the desert experience refines and shapes individuals.Transformation comes through “discipline, sacrifice, and prayer”.
He highlighted that, Jesus began His ministry after the 40-days fast, showing that “true power and purpose follow purification”.After undergoing spiritual transformation, Students should gain the strength to resist temptation and overcome challenges.
The preacher stressed that, spiritual growth is not limited to the 40 days of Lent. Christians must cultivate “Constant Personal Spiritual Development (CPSD)”. There should be daily progress in one’s spiritual life.
He warned against returning to old habits after Lent, noting that, true transformation must reflect in one’s “attitude, behavior, and relationship with God and others”.
Referencing “Colossians 3:5–10” and “Psalm 24:1–3”, Fr. Pius explained that, Purification enables believers to draw closer to God. Transformation is necessary to become:
The “salt of the earth”
The “light of the world”
True “disciples and ambassadors of Christ”
He emphasized that purification is not achieved by human effort alone but through the grace and power of God.
Students were therefore encouraged to embrace Lent as a time of serious self-examination, engage in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Seek inner transformation rather than outward appearances. Remain spiritually disciplined even after Lent, he advised, asking them to develop a deep thirst for God and resist temptation through spiritual strength gained from purification.
The recollection was a spiritually enriching experience that reminded students of the importance of “purification, transformation, and renewal” in their Christian journey. It challenged participants to move beyond superficial religious practices and embrace a life of “continuous spiritual growth”.
The programme ended with a renewed commitment among students to live as authentic Christians, reflecting Christ in their daily lives.
By Sr. Rebecca Asante, SVI ( Catholic Sister Communicators Network, Ghana- CASCON-GH)
