Pope Francis: A Symbol of Hope, Peace, and Compassion – Northern CAN
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has joined the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. The late pontiff was described as a profound figure of peace, humility, and transformational leadership.
In a statement issued on Monday, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab, chairman of Northern CAN, expressed that the news of the Pope’s death is a moment of deep grief for Christians worldwide, including Roman Catholic faithful in Northern Nigeria.
“Pope Francis was more than a spiritual leader; he was a symbol of hope, peace, and compassion in an increasingly divided world,” Hayab stated. “His papal era was marked by remarkable progress, spiritual awakening, and bold reform.”
Recalling the late Pope’s dedication to inclusivity and justice, Hayab noted that Pope Francis’s selection as the first Latin American and Jesuit pontiff brought a unique combination of humility, intellect, and pastoral concern to the Catholic Church.
“He advocated for the poor, defended the environment, and promoted interfaith harmony. He never hesitated to speak truth to power and challenge systems of exclusion,” Hayab added.
Northern CAN emphasized the significant impact of Pope Francis’s leadership within the Vatican and across local parishes, missions, and Catholic institutions in Nigeria. The group remarked that his messages of service, dialogue, and mercy resonated with the faithful and inspired broader ecumenical unity.
“To the Christian community in Northern Nigeria and to Catholics worldwide, this is a time not only for mourning but also for reflection and celebration,” the statement read. “We must reaffirm our commitment to the values Pope Francis championed: love, tolerance, justice, and service to humanity.”
Hayab urged Christians to draw strength from the Pope’s enduring legacy and to continue fostering unity across denominational and religious lines, in keeping with the late Pope’s vision.
“We pray that the global Church finds strength in this difficult hour and that the Catholic faithful in Nigeria and around the world are comforted by the assurance of eternal life promised in Christ,” he said.
“May the soul of His Holiness, Pope Francis, rest in perfect peace. And may God bless the Church he so faithfully served,” the statement concluded.
