Members of the clergy yesterday called for love and forgiveness ahead of Good Friday and Easter celebrations.

Good Friday, according to the Bible, is a day believers are reminded of how Jesus Christ became the first and the last sacrifice for human redemption.

The Bible clearly stipulates that without the shedding of Jesus’ blood on that Friday afternoon, there could never have been the forgiveness of sin.

Bishop Nathan Gasatura of Butare Anglican Diocese said: "Good Friday is a true reflection of God’s love and mercy which should be sought by all Rwandans.”

 "God sacrificed His only son so that our sins are forgiven. He let Jesus Christ suffer, be crucified and die, for the world to have peace. That was, and remains  the most priceless gift for mankind,” Bishop Gasatura added.

On this day, more than 2,000 years ago, it is believed that Jesus endured the worst torture and mocking in his life.

Francis Mutabazi, a senior pastor at Christ Gospel Fellowship Church in Gasabo District, said Jesus suffered so that mankind can live in peace.

"What the Jewish authorities and Romans did to Jesus was definitely not good. But one thing will remain for sure: Jesus was buying our salvation with his own blood,” Mutabazi said.

Mutabazi said that Jesus’ victory over death should serve to remind Rwandans that though the country at some point was destroyed, God has been good enough to resurrect it.

 "It is by this indication, that Rwandans should consider God’s love for our nation, forgive one another and work together to rebuild the ir nation,” Mutabazi added.

Bishop Smaragde Mbonyintege of Kabgayi Diocese and the spokesperson for the Catholic Church, said without forgiveness there cannot be love, faith and respect among people.

 "Forgiveness is the only way to overcome sin and establish  true love. As we remember the day Jesus carried our burdens onto the cross, I encourage Rwandans to examine ourselves and advocate for peace and unity,” Mbonyintege said.

According to the Bible, Jesus was free from sin, yet He endured death, so that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

The Ministry of Public Service and Labour announced a public holiday to allow Christians to celebrate Good-Friday. Speaking to The New times, Minister Anastase Murekezi, said Monday (Easter Monday) will be a normal working day.