As lovers of peace across the world mourn the glorious transition of Pope Francis, and await the emergence of his successor, the Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners (GIMP) Nigeria has acknowledged the late Pontiff as a champion of interfaith tolerance and global peace, urging his successor to embrace Pope and tolerance.
In a press statement by the Secretary of Trustees/Governing Board of the Guild, Mr. Samuel Egburonu, said Pope Francis was described as an acknowledged promoter of religious harmony and love among diverse people worldwide.
The statesman read: “Pope Francis’ messages on interfaith tolerance were anchored on his firm belief in ‘Fratelli Tutti’ (Fraternity and Social Friendship).
“His passionate initiatives promoting interfaith coexistence and tolerance will long remain a credible compass for navigating the path to true global peace.
“For our world to live together in peace and harmony, Pope Francis recommended dialogue and collaboration amongst leaders and adherents of various religions and faiths.
“He was one of the global religious leaders of our time, who openly preached that genuine religion should unite instead of divide.
“As the world bids Pope Francis goodbye, we at Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners (Nigeria) recall with pride that glorious day in 2019 when he left his Papal office in Rome to visit Abu Dhabi, where he met and dialogued with Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. That historic visit led to the signing of the ‘Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together’.
“We recall with nostalgia that he did more. He also signed the Joint Declaration of Istiqlal, bold steps that show where he stood”.
GIMP said that, today, Pope Francis has done his part and has left the scene. “For a safe, peaceful world, the Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners (Nigeria) calls on our leaders, including religious ones and others, to embrace the message of tolerance, dialogue and peace anchored on mutual respect”.
