The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged 290 FCT pilgrims to remember that pilgrimage is neither a jamboree nor tourism, but a spiritual call to strengthen one’s faith to attain a new level of spirituality and responsibility.
Mahmoud stated this at the occasion of the pre-departure orientation programme for the 2023/2024 main pilgrimage exercise as the FCT Pilgrims departed to the holylands of Israel and Kingdom of Jordan.
She stated that the occasion was aimed at not only bidding the pilgrims farewell but to prepare their mind, mentally, psychologically on the significance of Christian pilgrimage as well as to allay their fears on what to expect and what not to expect while in the Holy Lands.
Mahmoud noted that the occasion was also a demonstration of the government’s commitment and to also re-assure pilgrims that the government was doing everything possible to fulfil its obligation as contained in the board’s mandate.
While reminding them that pilgrimage as a religious practice has unquantifiable blessings, she urged them to use the opportunity to pray for the nation and its leadership at all levels for peace, progress, growth and development.
“I believe that through our collective prayers, God will continue to lead our country in the part of greatness. While in the Holylands, remember you have responsibility,” she stated.