A Catholic priest has advised members of the Catholic Church not to take part in the Hallelujah Challenge during the Lenten season, describing such participation as inconsistent with Catholic practice.
Lent begins on February 18 with Ash Wednesday. The 40-day period is observed by Catholics worldwide as a time of prayer, fasting and reflection in preparation for Easter. During this solemn season, the word “Hallelujah” is traditionally omitted from liturgy and personal devotion because it is associated with rejoicing.
The priest shared his position in a Facebook post, noting that this year’s Lent coincides with the annual Hallelujah Challenge, an online praise programme led by gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey.
In his message, he said that for Catholics, following the Hallelujah Challenge during Lent undermines the meaning of their baptism, confirmation, Holy Communion, Mass attendance and recitation of the Rosary. He described it as disrespectful to the faith.
He clarified that he does not consider the Hallelujah Challenge itself to be wrong. However, he stressed that Catholics are expected to abstain from saying “Hallelujah” throughout Lent and should not combine the wearing of Ash Wednesday ashes with participation in praise activities centred on the word.
He concluded by urging Catholics to remain consistent in their religious observance, quoting Michael Iwene Tansi: “If you want be a Catholic be a full-time Catholic.”
