By Emeka Odogwu
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry C. Ndukuba has on behalf of the Church of Nigeria , Anglican Communion, commiserated with the Roman Catholic Church over the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88.
The Primate in a letter personally signed and addressed to His Excellency, The Most Rev’d Michael Francis Crotty who is the Apostolic Nunciature to Nigeria, noted that the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) joined the global Christian Community and the Roman Catholic Church in mourning the loss of a remarkable spiritual leader, shepherd, and servant of God.
A press statement by Korede Akintunde Church of Nigeria Communication Officer made available to the media says that Archbishop Ndukuba noted the unwavering devotion and sacrificial spirit of Pope Francis to the body of Christ and the world.
He noted that he would be remembered for his humility, simplicity, heart for the poor, and unwavering advocacy for peace, justice, and Christian unity across denominational, racial, and national boundaries.
“That His Holiness celebrated the Holy Mass on Easter Day at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, just hours before his peaceful transition underscores the unwavering devotion and sacrificial spirit with which he served the Body of Christ until the very end.”
“On behalf of the House of Bishops, clergy, and entire faithful of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), we convey our heartfelt condolences to the Roman Catholic Church, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), and to Your Excellency, as the representative of the Holy See in Nigeria.
” We stand with you in prayer at this time of immense loss and commend the soul of His Holiness to the eternal rest and peace of God.” He declared.
Primate Ndukuba prayed that the Holy Spirit would comfort the Roman Catholic faithful worldwide and especially the flock the Pope so lovingly shepherded.
He committed members of the church to “God’s guidance and wisdom in the process of electing a successor in the days ahead.”
