An Islamic group in Nigeria, popularly known as, Shi’ites, on Monday joined Christians in a Christmas Service at St Joseph Catholic Church, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State.

Uniting religion

The Islamic group described their action as a way of strengthening religious harmony and unity between religious groups.

The leader of the Shi’ite group, Prof Isah-Hassan Mshelgaru, explains that the group acknowledged Christmas as a day for festivities, friendliness and unity.

He added that joining Christian as they mark Christmas was meant to renew hope for unity among Muslims, Christians and other religions.

Reviving hope

Mshelgaru further explained that their decision to attend the Christmas service was to strengthen the relationship between the two faith groups, noting that Islam and Christianity were revered faiths with more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s population as adherents.

He noted that “When other faithful unite with the two faith groups, it means the whole of Nigerian is united.”

Speaking on the impact of the visit, Mshelgaru said as a group, it started visiting churches since over 25 years ago and since then there had been improved agreement between the group and Christians.

He said, “The visit has reduced the fears and some animosity between the two faith groups. They (Christians) are now open to us; we share sentiments and problems together. The regular exchange of visits have bridged the gaps between us.”

Earlier, the parish priest, Most Revd Isak Augustine, appreciated the Islamic group for the visit and urged the group to do more of the visit in other to strengthen religious harmony and unity the more.

He prayed for God’s peace upon the country and to save her from the myriad socioeconomic challenges.

The group also presented gifts to the Church.