By Sarafina Christopher
Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Northern Region, on Thursday urged Christians to renew “our commitment to love, unity, and sacrificial service.”
Hayab’s advice is contained in a statement he personally issued.
In the statement, tagged, “New Year Message from the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Northern Region”, the cleric said, “This is a time to deepen our faith, strengthen our bonds as one body, and recommit ourselves to the pursuit of peace, justice, and harmonious coexistence.
“As Christians, we are called to be light and salt in our communities, demonstrating compassion, forgiveness, and integrity in our words and actions, even in the face of provocation or adversity.”
He said CAN in the northern region would continue to engage constructively with government, traditional institutions, and other faith communities to promote peaceful coexistence, protect the rights of Christians, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Hayab, therefore, urged northern Christians to actively participate in CAN programmes, interfaith engagements, and outreach initiatives aimed at spiritual growth, social responsibility, and the upliftment of the vulnerable in the society.
He added that although the year gone by presented the Christian community with significant trials, ranging from security concerns and social tensions to economic hardships that tested it’s faith and resilience, members witnessed the faithfulness of God and the strength that comes from unity.
According to him, through prayer, perseverance, and collective commitment, the Church in Northern Nigeria stood firm, remaining a voice of hope, peace, and moral conscience in society.
He commended Christian leaders, the clergy, youth, women, and the entire membership of Northern CAN for their steadfastness, courage, and unwavering dedication to the ideals of Christ.
“As we journey through this New Year, let us remain prayerful and vigilant, seeking divine wisdom and guidance in all that we do.
“May God grant us renewed strength, clarity of purpose, and protection as we confront emerging challenges and seize opportunities to build a more just, peaceful, and united Nigeria.
“I extend warm and heartfelt greetings to all members of the Christian Association of Nigeria across the Northern Region, as well as to Christians and people of goodwill in our communities,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Emmanuel Yashim
