Connect with us

Religion

NASFAT Inaugurates Chapter in Canada

Published

on

Nasrul-Lahil-l-Fath Society (NASFAT)
Share

The Chief Missioner of Nasrul-Lahil-l-Fath Society (NASFAT), Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike, yesterday inaugurated the Toronto chapter of NASFAT.

In a paper delivered at the inauguration of the chapter in Toronto and made available to the Newsmen in Lagos, Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike, said that there was the need for peaceful coexistence regardless of faith, race, language, social class and culture.

His lecture was entitled: “Inter-Faith Relations and Peaceful Co-Existence: The Hallmark of Islam.

According to him, “God does not forbid you’’ is a good admonition for Muslims to ensure good inter-faith relations and peaceful co-existence with one another.

“In other words, Muslims are enjoined to relate with Non-Muslims amicably, with kindness and with justice, unless they are hostile, persecute or drive Muslims out of their homes.

“It further reaffirms that Muslims should not even engage them in argument “except in a most kindly manner” (Q.29:46).

“Muslims are allowed to form alliances, partnerships with organisations which cooperate with non-Muslims for the attainment of common good,’’ he said.

Onike said that Prophet Muhammad associated with an organisation that was interested in promoting equity and justice before the advent of Islam.

The organisation was called “Hilful Fudul’’.

“The existence of certain interfaith marriages permitted to Muslim men is proof of Islam’s favour towards harmonious relationship-building between faith groups.

“Quran 5:5 Muslim men can marry Non-Muslim Women (Ahlu l kitab), but not contrariwise due to: 3) The Qur’an uses a number of terms denoting friendly relations with reference to Muslims as well as Non-Muslims.

“Many esteemed classical commentators of the Qur’an state that verses prescribing kindness to non-aggressive Non-Muslims are not abrogated by subsequently revealed verses.

“The Prophet (SAW) trusted certain Non-Muslims with his life and the lives of other Muslims. The types of individuals that are trustworthy may thus be derived from the Qur’an and Sunnah.

“Non-Muslims may be consulted and assigned positions of trust in technical matters at private or governmental level such as in the fields of medicine, transport, agriculture, industry, military equipment, etc.”

The cleric urged Muslims, especially NASFAT members, not just to be dutiful to their host country, but actively contribute towards improving it.

“This is because Muslims are enjoined to be “the best nation ever raised for mankind” (Q.3:110).   (NAN)

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Religion

Palm Sunday: CAN President Tasks Leaders to Emulate the Humility of Christ 

Published

on

Share

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja 

President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh on Sunday,  tasks leaders in Nigeria to always ensure they  emulate the virtue of unity and humility exemplified by Jesus Christ no matter the situation and ensure peaceful coexistence.

His Eminence stated this in his message to Christian faithfuls marking  the Palm Sunday, and made available to media in Abuja, he said in the midst of challenges ranging from insecurity, economic uncertainties amongst others, this period offers everyone a beacon of light and inspiration.

The  statement which His Eminence, personally signed, he said: “As we observe Palm Sunday, a day that holds profound significance in the Christian faith, I humbly extend my heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians.

This sacred day commemorates the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, a moment marked by jubilation, hope, and symbolism that transcends time.

“In the midst of our current realities in Nigeria, where we are confronted with a myriad of challenges ranging from social unrest to economic uncertainties and tensions, the essence of Palm Sunday offers us a beacon of light and inspiration.

“The image of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, instead of a war chariot or an exotic means of transportation, and being welcomed by crowds waving palm branches and laying their cloaks on the ground, serves as a poignant reminder of humility for our leaders and the power of peace and collective faith for all citizens.

“In reflecting on the lessons of Palm Sunday for contemporary Nigerian society, we are called to emulate the virtue of unity exemplified by Jesus Christ. Just as the people of Jerusalem set aside their differences to welcome the Prince of Peace, let us set aside our prejudices, grievances, and animosities to foster a spirit of harmony, reconciliation, and understanding among ourselves.

“At this critical juncture in our nation’s history, as we navigate through turbulent waters and strive towards a more prosperous and equitable society, let us draw strength from the enduring message of Palm Sunday. Let us remember that in times of adversity, faith can move mountains and bridge divides, and love can conquer all.

“Witnessing the unfolding events in our nation, let us heed the call to action embedded in the spirit of Palm Sunday. Let us be beacons of hope and agents of positive change in our communities, extending a hand of friendship to our neighbors, showing kindness to the marginalized, and upholding justice for the oppressed.

“As we embark on this journey of reflection and renewal during the holy season of Palm Sunday, may we be guided by the timeless teachings of Christ, and may we emerge as a stronger, more united Nigerian society, bound together by the common values of peace, justice, and solidarity. May the blessings of Palm Sunday be upon you and your families.”

Continue Reading

Religion

Ash Wednesday: Be Sensitive to Plight of Nigerians, Cleric to Political Office Holders 

Published

on

Share

Rev. Fr. Christian Oji, the Parish Priest, Holy Family Parish Ologo in Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State, has appealed to political office holders to be sensitive to the plight of Nigerians.

Oji, who made the appeal in his Ash Wednesday sermon, advised politicians to use the lenten period to end the current economic hardship facing Nigerians.

The priest said that the political class appeared to be insensitive to the people’s sufferings, adding that the challenges facing the country were not natural but man-made.

“This is as a result of wrong policies, corruption, wickedness and insensitivity of many political office holders.

“I call on our leaders to have a rethink and come back to Christ, who is the giver of knowledge to seek wisdom to rule Nigeria.

“They should do everything humanly possible to change the face of Nigeria because people are really suffering, while the country is going down.

“Unless they take action now, something drastic may happen in future but we don’t pray for that.

“I call on them to rise and emulate Christ by making efforts to change Nigeria,” the clergyman said.

He also spoke on the meaning of the Ash Wednesday, being the beginning of Lent.

According to him, the event signifies that we are nothing but ash and ash we shall return.

“It is a period where churches all over the world come together to make preparations to undergo 40 days retreat bearing the cross with Christ.

“Ash Wednesday as the beginning of Lent, runs through 40 days before Easter, and today serves as the beginning of those 40 days of intensive retreat among Christians to reflect the passion of Christ.

“It signifies that we are nothing but dust and we are going back to dust, and it also makes us understand that apart from Christ we are nothing.

“Therefore, Christians are expected to engage in spiritual activities of fasting, praying, abstinence and alms giving,” Oji said.

He said that the message of Ash Wednesday and Lent was for humanity to give their lives to Christ.

“With the spate of insecurity, economic hardship, it is time that Christians came together to pray fervently for God to take control of this country.

“We should pray to God to intervene and deliver this country from going into self-destruction,” he said. (NAN)

Continue Reading

Religion

Christmas: CAN Youth Wing calls for Sober Reflection

Published

on

Share

The Youth Wing, Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), has called on Nigerians to use Christmas as a moment of sober reflection to redirect all thinking and actions towards nation building.

The Chairman of YOWICAN, Enugu State, Mr Chekwube Ani, made the call in a Christmas message made available to newsmen in Enugu on Sunday.

According to Ani, Christmas should not be a time of festivities alone.

It should be a moment of deep sober reflection.

He said: “We should take out time in this season to evaluate ourselves and the society to see how much we have appreciated and promoted the salvation work of God.

“The gift of Jesus, whom we celebrate His birth during Christmas, is for reconciliation and salvation of mankind.

“This gift of Jesus was borne out of love and is for all men, John 3:16. Therefore, let us take this season to reconcile with our maker and demonstrate love to one another as God did to us.

“As we celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ this year, let us be mindful of who we celebrate; what He represents and what He does.”

Ani also appreciated Gov. Peter Mbah, for the massive work done in security, health, education, agriculture, road construction, water project, tourism and other infrastructural works ongoing around the state.

He said: “We pray for Grace to sustain this great work. Also, we urge the people of Enugu State to support the government for more dividends of democracy.

“Congratulations to His Excellency, Peter Mbah, on his recent victory at the Supreme Court. Indeed, our tomorrow is here with great expectations.” (NAN)

Continue Reading

Read Our ePaper

Top Stories

NEWS9 hours ago

FCT HOS: Why President Tinubu Extends Atang’s Tenure By 6 Months

ShareBy Laide Akinboade, AbujaPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved the extension of Atang Udo Samuel, as the the Head of...

NEWS10 hours ago

FGGC Benin Emerges Winner of 2023 National Senior Secondary Schools’ Debate

ShareBy Tony Obiechina, AbujaThe Federal Government Girls College, Benin has emerged overall winner of the 2023 National Senior Secondary Schools’...

NEWS10 hours ago

We’re Meeting Our Targets on Airport -Kuje Road Construction – Wike

ShareBy Laide Akinboade, AbujaThe Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, haom Wednesday,  expressed satisfaction with the...

NEWS10 hours ago

Osun to Partner FG on Culture, Tourism Development

ShareFrom Kunle IdowuGovernor Ademola Adeleke has secured a partnership deal with the Ministry of Tourism on the development of tourism...

POLITICS10 hours ago

I Didn’t Call for Ganduje’s Resignation – Alia

ShareFrom Attah Ede, MakurdiGovernor Hyacinth Alia of Benue has denied calling for the resignation of Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, the All...

POLITICS10 hours ago

Mutfwang Meets PDP North Central Leadership Calls for Unity among Officials

ShareFrom Jude Dangwam, JosThe Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has called for unity a purpose among...

POLITICS10 hours ago

FG Seeks Swedish Govt Support on Technical Education

ShareBy Tony Obiechina, Abuja The Federal Government is seeking the support of the Swedish Government to help drive its ongoing...

Metro10 hours ago

FG Declares March 29, April 1, Public Holiday to Mark Easter Celebration

ShareThe Federal Government has declared Friday, March 29, and Monday, April 1, as public holidays to mark the Easter celebration.This...

NEWS10 hours ago

Nigeria Prepared to Expedite Sustainable Dev’t in Collaboration with Partners — Tinubu

SharePresident Bola Tinubu yesterday said his administration is committed to deepening democracy by ensuring adherence to the rule of law...

NEWS10 hours ago

Police Engage Bandits in Gun Battle, Kill two, Arrest One in Benue

ShareFrom Attah Ede, Makurdi Men of the Benue State Police Command yesterday engaged bandits in gun duel in Mba-Mtsar village,...

Copyright © 2021 Daily Asset Limited | Powered by ObajeSoft Inc