Rev. Fr. Ebenezer Hanson, a Ghanaian Catholic priest, has stirred reflection among the faithful by asserting that there is “nothing special about 31st Night of December.”
His remarks challenge the cultural emphasis placed on New Year’s Eve celebrations, urging a return to spiritual focus as the new year approaches.
In a message shared in one of his writings dubbed “Sankofa Series,” Fr. Hanson emphasised the central role of Jesus in the lives of believers, stating, “Jesus is the reason why every living being exists. You are in the plan of God.”
He reinforced that the nativity of Christ is not only the origin but also the fulfilment of every religion, positioning the Church as a guiding force in the world.
Fr. Hanson cautioned against succumbing to worldly celebrations, highlighting the importance of spiritual preparation. “There is nothing special about 31st Night of December. If the new year meets you in Church and you have sins in your heart, you will still go to hell when you die,” he stated, urging his congregation to focus on genuine repentance rather than mere festivities.
The priest further noted that the resolutions made as the new year begins should be aimed at fulfilling God’s will. He reminded the faithful that the day following New Year’s Eve, 1st January, is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. “You cannot spend the night in Church but miss Holy Mass on the day of solemnity,” he warned, calling for a commitment to spiritual observance over foriegn traditions.
Fr. Hanson encouraged Catholics to avoid setting their own standards for Christ, asserting, “Just please God and do what is pleasing to Him, and, everything shall be added unto you.”
Read the full text below
SANKOFA SERIES
What is Shall be…Dearly beloved, may the peace and joy of the Newborn King fill your home!
I wish to share some bare truths with you as we anticipate the next civil year:
* Jesus is the reason why every living being exist. You are in the plan of God.
* The nativity of Christ is the origin and fulfillment of every religion.
* The Church which as the Body of Christ is the leader of the world. She arranged the current civil calender called the Gregorian calender.
* The Church is one month older than the world, hence, you should not succumb to the antichristian order of the world.
* There is nothing special about 31st Night of December. If the new year meets you in Church and you have sins in your heart, you will still go to hell when you die.
* The resolutions you make must urge you on to DO the will of God.
* Remember that tomorrow, 1st January, is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. You cannot spend the night in Church but miss Holy Mass on the day of solemnity.
* Do not set standards for Christ. Just please God and do what is pleasing to Him, and, everything shall be added unto you.May God preserve us all from the snare of the Fowler.
Peace and Joy!
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