By Harrison Arubu
UN Secretary-General, António Guterres has urged religious leaders of all faith to join forces in promoting peace in the world and fight against COVID-19.
Guterres made the appeal in a video message on Saturday to mark three religious occasions: Easter by Christians, Passover by Muslims and holy month of Ramadan starting for Muslims soon.
“We have always known these occasions to be moments of community, of families coming together, of hugs and handshakes and the gathering of humanity.
“But this is a time like no other. We are all seeking to navigate a strange, surreal world.
“A world of silent streets, shuttered storefronts, empty places of worship, and a world of worry.
“We are worried about our loved ones who are equally worried about us.How do we celebrate at a time like this?”
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Coronavirus has infected no fewer than 1.6 million people and killed nearly 100,000 worldwide since its outbreak in China last December.
The UN Chief reminded all of the essence of these holy occasions as “moments for reflection, remembrance and renewal”, and enjoined people to be inspired by them.
“As we reflect, let us spare a special thought for heroic health workers on the frontlines battling this awful virus, and for all those working to keep our cities and towns going.
“Let us remember the most vulnerable of the vulnerable around the world.
“Those in war zones and refugee camps and slums and all those places least equipped to fight the virus.
“And let us renew our faith in one another and draw strength from the good that is gathering in troubled times as communities of diverse faith and ethical traditions unite to care for one another.
“Together, we can and will defeat this virus, with cooperation, solidarity, and faith in our common humanity,” the UN chief said.