Shi’ites Foster Religious Harmony, Attend Christmas Service in Kaduna

• Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria join a Christmas Service, emphasizing unity and fostering religious harmony with Christians
• Shi’ites leader Prof Isah-Hassan Mshelgaru sees the gesture as symbolic, aiming to renew hope and strengthen ties between faiths

Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, commonly known as Shi’ites, participated in a Christmas Service at St Joseph Catholic Church in Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State. The move was described as strengthening bonds and fostering religious harmony between different faith communities.

Prof Isah-Hassan Mshelgaru, the leader of the Shi’ite group, highlighted the acknowledgement of Christmas as a day of festivities, friendliness, and unity. He emphasized that joining Christians in celebrating Christmas was a symbolic gesture to renew hope for unity among Muslims, Christians, and followers of other religions.

Mshelgaru explained that the decision to attend the church service aimed to fortify the relationship between the Islamic and Christian faiths. With over 90% of Nigeria’s population adhering to Islam and Christianity, he emphasized that unity between these two major faiths would contribute to the overall unity of the country.

“The whole of Nigeria is united when other faithful unite with the two faith groups,” he stated.

Reflecting on the impact of the Shi’ites’ visits to churches over the past 25 years, Mshelgaru noted an improved understanding and a reduction in fears and animosity between the two faith communities. He highlighted the positive outcomes of regular exchange visits, fostering sentiments and problem-sharing.

Most Revd Isak Augustine, the parish priest, expressed appreciation for the Islamic group’s visit and encouraged more interactions to strengthen religious harmony and unity. He offered prayers for God’s peace and the resolution of the country’s socioeconomic challenges.

As a gesture of goodwill, the Shi’ite group presented gifts to the church, further exemplifying their commitment to fostering unity and understanding among diverse religious communities.