The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), 19 Northern States and the Abuja chapter, has joined the global Christian community in mourning the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.
In a statement issued by its chairman, Rev. John Hayab, the news of the Pope’s death was described as a moment of profound grief for Catholics and Christians around the world, especially the Roman Catholic community in Northern Nigeria and the country at large.
Rev. Hayab noted that in times of loss, it is important for people of faith to come together in unity, prayer, and remembrance. He described Pope Francis as more than a spiritual leader, calling him a symbol of hope, peace, and compassion in an increasingly divided world. According to him, the Pope’s tenure was marked by remarkable progress, spiritual awakening, and courageous reform.
From the onset of his papacy, Pope Francis embraced a vision of the Church rooted in inclusion, mercy, and the teachings of Christ. Hayab said the Pope brought a rare blend of humility, intellect, and deep pastoral concern to his leadership. He stood for the poor, defended the environment, and consistently spoke out against injustice and inequality. He also reached across religious divides to promote interfaith harmony and never hesitated to challenge systems that oppressed or excluded.
CAN acknowledged the Roman Catholic Church’s essential role in the spiritual and social life of many Nigerian communities, noting that Pope Francis’s influence extended deeply into local parishes, missions, and schools. His encouragement of service, dialogue, and living faith left a lasting impact, with teachings that resonated far beyond the Vatican.
Rev. Hayab concluded that this moment is not only one of mourning but also of reflection and celebration. The Christian community in Northern Nigeria and Catholics around the world remember Pope Francis for his tireless efforts to promote unity among Christians and between people of different faiths.