Two pastors in Kaduna, on Wednesday felicitated with Muslims on the occasion of Maulud celebration, to mark the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
The Pastors, Yohanna Buru and Joshua Ahmed told newsmen in Kaduna that the occasion was an appropriate time for the promotion of peaceful coexistence and inter-religious tolerance in the country.
They urged Muslims to also use the occasion to strengthen better understanding among different faiths in the country.
Buru, the General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intercessory Ministry, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna, said
”celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad goes beyond Muslims alone, because the Prophet is for everyone as he preached peace, love, unity and tolerance throughout his life.”
The pastor disclosed that he had read many books about the Holy Prophet on the various roles he played in promoting peaceful coexistence among different faiths and his exemplary religious tolerance.
“Celebrating the prophet goes beyond Muslims alone, because he spent his entire life providing service to humanity and peace to all nations,” he added.
Buru advised Muslims to celebrate with caution because of coronavirus pandemic, adding that they should observe social distancing, wear face mask and hand gloves during any gathering.
“Last year, I attended many Maulud celebrations with other Christian clerics to strengthen good relationship with our Muslim brothers.
“We must remember that we are from one family, Adam and Eve, we are brothers and sisters believing in our Holy scriptures, Bible and Qur’an, and we believe in life after death. We must therefore be our brother’s keepers.”
Buru urged Muslim and Christian clerics to pray for the unity of Nigeria and offer special prayers for peace and stability in the country.
He equally called on states and Federal Government to bring an end to the security challenges bedeviling the country.
The pastor appealed Nigerian youth to stop looting and vandalising public property.
On his part, Joshua Ahmed urged Muslims to use the season to pray for peace and stability in the country.
He also called on Nigerian youth to embrace peace and dialogue, so as to move the country forward.
Ahmed said he always participate in Maulud celebration to strengthen Christian-Muslim relations in the state.
He called on wealthy individuals and organisations to support the needy, and provide food and clothing to orphanage homes, as the harmattan season begins.
“We congratulate Muslims all over the world as they celebrate Maulud. We wish you joy and happiness as you celebrate the birth of the Holy Prophet,’ he added.