True peace transcends immediate human suffering, says Archbishop Gallagher

Paul R. Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, has urged Nigerians to stay strong and persevere despite the current afflictions, adding that true peace transcends immediate human suffering.

The Archbishop also implored the lay faithful and clergy to operate in total obedience to God to avoid reaping the whirlwind, and warned against self-serving leadership and systemic corruption. He also prayed that the Church in Nigeria remains an unwavering beacon of hope in the service of the common good of every Nigerian.

The thanksgiving Mass to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Holy See and Nigeria was held at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral in Abuja. Gallagher acknowledged the steep socio-economic realities confronting Nigeria, drawing parallels to the biblical struggles of Judah and delivered a message of hope to Nigerians.

“The example of St Patrick remains important for the Nigeria of today, and indeed for all Christians, as he shows us that the burden of labouring for peace, while demanding, is made light by God’s grace.

“As the people of Judah faced different forms of oppression and hardships, too many in our own time are confronted by numerous challenges including insecurity, economic hardship and the lack of basic amenities, and indeed violence, sometimes extreme,” Gallagher stated during his recent visit to Nigeria to mark the golden jubilee of diplomatic relations with Nigeria.

Gallagher, in his address, underscored that the relationship between the Vatican and Nigeria extends beyond geopolitical strategy. According to him, the relationship is built on the shared values of protecting the God-given dignity of the human person, guaranteeing religious freedom and promoting justice and peace.

“Today’s event celebrates the special bond of cooperation that exists between the Holy See and Nigeria, a bond that is built not on the basis of political or material interests,” he stated.