SOLIDARITY A VERITABLE TOOL FOR PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE AMONG NIGERIANS by Sister Kathleen McGarvey. INTRODUCTION: Humans are social beings; as such no human being can live in isolation, we might have originated from different ancestors, speak different languages, having different modes of culture and faith expression et cetera, we still need one another. There is indeed unity in diversity. The psalmist says: “Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” -Psalm 133. The implication of this verse of the bible is peaceful co-existence which is done in love. In 1 John 4:7-8, we are encouraged: “Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love”. From the history of Nigeria, religious conflicts are among the greatest tragedies that have befallen the nation. They are often the bloodiest, the longest and the most bitterly fought because each person in the conflict sincerely believes that a heavenly reward awaits him/her if he loses his life. This paper will therefore present the necessity for solidarity among Nigerians for peaceful coexistence. THE PRINCIPLE OF SOLIDARITY: The word solidarity comes from the French solidarite meaning “mutual responsibility.”The interdependence we share with our fellow human beings demands that we take responsibility for them in accordance with the measure of what we have been given by God. Much that can be said about the importance of the principle of solidarity can be appreciated and found meaningful even by people who have no particular faith expression. For Christians though, its importance begins with its origins. The principle of solidarity has its roots in the scriptures. The book of Deuteronomy tells us: Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore command you, “open your hand to the poor and needy neighbour in your land. (Deut.15:11) In Acts 11:26-27, the early believers were called CHRISTIANS in Antioch because of the communal life they embraced. They propagated the message of Christ through their lives. They saw justice (solidarity) as linked more closely with love than law- they saw it as grounded in the deeds of Christ. We must recognize the fact that every single person, family and group has something original to offer to the community. As stated by the Catechism of the Catholic Church : ‘we all have potential inscribed in our nature, and meaningful work is a way that we can fulfill that potential, but only if were given the chance.’(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2428). The virtue of solidarity is quite demanding. Echoing the Golden Rule of the gospels it translates into the willingness to give oneself for the good of ones neighbour, beyond any individual or particular interest (Compendium of Social Doctrines of the Church, 194). The underlying factors of the principles of solidarity are evident: tolerance, and mutual respect; without these, there can’t be peace in our nation. THE PROBLEMS MILITATING AGAINST PEACEFUL-COEXISTENCE: Illiteracy: Hosea 4:6 puts is in clear terms that: “my people perish for lack of knowledge”. Lack or inadequate awareness of one’s religion or culture or that of another party can constitute a barrier to harmonious living. A good understanding of another person’s religion can give room to more knowledge in an individual’s religion Fundamentalism: Holding religious teachings to the extreme. Wrong interpretations of texts from sacred books can be harmful. Politicizing religion: In Nigeria, many people hardly differentiate between religion and politics especially when it comes to elections and government. The misunderstanding of the two has over the years led to loss of lives and properties Discrimination: In some places in Nigeria, segregation based on religion is evident. In some government and private institutions, jobs and admissions are given not based on qualification but on religious grounds. Marginalization and domination are also evident in some regions in Nigeria. Prejudices and biases: These are judgments or opinions made about others without adequate knowledge. It can also be seen as intolerance or hatred of other. THE WAY FORWARD TOWARDS PEACE: The primary basis of unity and peaceful coexistence should be that we are all rational human beings created by the same God. ‘So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them’ (Gen. 1-27). We are all Nigerians: As Nigerians who share the same geographical location, we are bound to work towards the peaceful coexistence of all. This can be achieved through religious tolerance and through mature and healthy discussions. Organization of Seminars and Conferences: There is need for public inter-religious and inter-cultural conferences, workshops and seminars. This will be a forum for deepening our oneness and belief in the One God. It will also be an opportunity to clear some misconceptions concerning one’s faith. It has to be done with mutual respect and a view to understand the other better. Religious leaders: The religious leaders of the two major religions in Nigeria (Islam and Christianity) should stand out as the messengers of truth. They should not allow themselves to be used by those who do not have the good of the country at heart. No doubt, religion is a powerful force. (Ndubisi, 2012: 172-173) Mutual Understanding and Tolerance: There can’t be progress in the face of mutual suspicion. Putting the past quarrels and violence behind with the commitment to correct past errors can be a good move towards peaceful living. The need to tolerate each other’s religion The Mass Media: The Mass Media can also serve an invaluable tool for fostering peace among people with different cultures and faith expressions when properly harnessed. Positive values and teachings about religions should be promoted and prejudices and biases avoided In his book the Voice of the Bishop, Bishop Bagobiri Joseph of the diocese of Kafachan listed what he termed as the Decalogue for Peace. For the purpose of this work, I will list a few of them. 1. We commit ourselves to frank and patient dialogue, refusing to consider our differences as an insurmountable barrier, but recognizing instead that to encounter the diversity of others can become an opportunity for greater and reciprocal understanding. 2. We commit ourselves to forgiving one another for past and present errors and prejudices and to learn from the past that peace without justice is no true peace 3. We commit ourselves to urging leaders of nations to make and consolidate, on the national and international levels, a world of solidarity and peace based on justice. CONCLUSION: Christianity as a religion encourages the peaceful co-existence of all peoples of the world Muslims and Christians alike because we are all created by one Supreme Being God. We cannot fulfill this task (peaceful coexistence) expected of us in the midst of turmoil, confusion and bloodshed. We can only attain great heights in all sectors when there is order. We appeal to all to pray relentlessly foe peace, unity and stability in our country Nigeria and in the spirit of solidarity cooperate with one another and the government for the common good of all. Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain (Psalm 127:1)
Posted on: Mon, 25 Nov 2013 13:20:05 +0000
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