The Jigawa State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended its condolences to global Christian believers, particularly Catholics, over the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Day.
The condolence message was delivered by the state’s chapter of the association (CAN) through Rev. Fr. Maurice Koli Hassan while speaking to the Online Tribune during the Easter celebration at ASPC Church in the Jigawa Police Barracks, Dutse, the state capital.
Rev. Fr. Maurice Koli Hassan said, “This is indeed a sad moment for us, especially we Catholics, and the Catholic faithful all over the world.”
He added, “Pope Francis had been a special father to all Christian believers in the world. We just woke up to the news that he has died. So, his time has come, and we pray that the Lord will grant him eternal rest. For those of us still here, we pray for consolation so that we may carry on.”
Speaking on the Easter celebration, the CAN Chairman disclosed, “We are here as a Christian body, cutting across all the 27 local government areas of the state, gathered to pray on this Easter Monday and reflect on the wonderful deeds that signify our redemption and victory over death, as well as the great promises of Jesus in the gospel.”
He further stated that it is an occasion of joy and peace, where they gathered to celebrate in harmony and love as brothers and sisters.
“It is a moment for us to gather and pray for our country, Nigeria, which is going through difficult situations. For instance, on March 27, we witnessed the killings of 16 innocent hunters in Irumi. That was not enough; last week, we witnessed the killing of over 150 people in Plateau State, and on Good Friday, more than 50 people were murdered in Benue State. These incidents call for sober reflection, and we need to pray for our country to receive the gift of peace.”
He added that without peace, nothing can be achieved. “You cannot worship God, you cannot go to the market, you cannot go to the farm, and likewise, life cannot continue. We need peace to carry out our daily activities.”
Koli emphasised that Jesus Christ’s parting gift to his followers was peace, as he said, “Peace be with you.” He noted that the lesson to be drawn from the celebration of Holy Easter is that every Christian must be an agent of peace wherever they find themselves, as they have been imparted with the gift of peace by Jesus himself.
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