By Charles Igwe
Cardinal Robert Sarah recently emphasized the importance of unity among followers of Christ during a symposium in Kenya, highlighting that disunity undermines the mission of spreading the Gospel and evangelization efforts.
Speaking at the 2024 Theological Symposium organized by Tangaza University College, Cardinal Sarah warned against divisions among Christians, stressing that such disunity weakens their collective witness to the Gospel. He cautioned that fragmented witness may lead the world to doubt the credibility of the Gospel message.
In his keynote address titled “Make Disciples of all Nations: The Missionary Mandate of Christ,” Cardinal Sarah urged African Christians to prioritize their adherence to the Gospel above all other identities, including tribal, national, and racial affiliations.
Highlighting the vulnerability of divided Christians to exploitation, Cardinal Sarah emphasized the need for unity, both within the Christian faith and among fellow Africans. He cautioned that divisions, whether religious, ethnic, or political, can be exploited by corrupt individuals or foreign powers.
Cardinal Sarah linked unity among disciples of Jesus Christ with progress, asserting that collective prosperity is achievable only through unity.
Addressing the challenges hindering the mission of evangelization, Cardinal Sarah advocated for a concerted effort involving prayer and fasting. He emphasized that through prayer and fasting, individuals can overcome selfishness and narrowness, allowing them to work together despite differences.
Echoing the Lenten emphasis on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, Cardinal Sarah emphasized the need to combine prayer and fasting to overcome obstacles to evangelization. He underscored that joint prayer and fasting efforts, even with those of other religious traditions, can address shared challenges and pave the way for effective evangelization.
Cardinal Sarah’s message underscores the importance of unity among Christians in fulfilling the mandate of spreading the Gospel and advancing the mission of the Church.
