Onaiyekan Urges Christian-Muslim Unity During Lent & Ramadan
As Christians and Muslims prepare to observe their respective holy periods of Lent and Ramadan, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has made a strong appeal for unity and mutual respect between the two religious communities. He highlighted that both faiths are deeply rooted in the worship of one almighty and merciful God, making this an opportunity to foster understanding and harmony.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Onaiyekan emphasised the commonalities between Christianity and Islam, particularly their shared focus on prayer, fasting, and acts of kindness. He pointed out that in 2025, Lent and Ramadan will overlap, offering a special moment for believers to reflect on their faith and work towards religious tolerance and national unity.
The cardinal acknowledged the differences in religious practices but stressed that both observances ultimately serve the same spiritual purpose. Lent, observed by Christians, is a period of repentance, self-denial, and deepened prayer, while Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, is dedicated to fasting, increased devotion, and acts of generosity. He urged followers of both religions to use this time as a reminder that faith should unite rather than divide people.
Onaiyekan further underscored the significant role religious leaders must play in ensuring peaceful coexistence. He called on priests, bishops, imams, and other faith leaders to encourage their followers to engage in these sacred periods with sincerity and a focus on righteousness. He noted that fasting or religious rituals performed without genuine spiritual intent would not bring about true personal or societal transformation.
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Moreover, the cleric emphasised the power of collective prayer and interfaith dialogue, noting that the simultaneous observance of Lent and Ramadan should be seen as a divine call for believers to join forces in prayer. He expressed hope that the faithful from both religions would use this time to seek God’s guidance, mercy, and healing, not only for themselves but for the broader society.
Beyond spiritual commitments, Onaiyekan also advocated for increased collaboration between Christian and Muslim communities in charitable endeavours. He urged believers to extend love and kindness to those in need, as acts of charity are central teachings in both faiths. By actively supporting the less privileged, he said, religious groups could demonstrate the true essence of their beliefs and help build a more compassionate society.
He also cautioned against religious extremism and intolerance, reminding people that unity and peace are key to national development. He stated that in a country as diverse as Nigeria, understanding and respecting each other’s religious beliefs is essential for sustainable peace and progress.
As Lent and Ramadan coincide in 2025, Cardinal Onaiyekan’s message stands as a significant call to action. It encourages Christians and Muslims alike to reflect on their shared values, embrace interfaith dialogue, and work together towards peace, harmony, and a more united society.
SOURCE: https://nannews.ng/
Content Credit| Oyedepo Oluwafifedoyinsola
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