Dear Friends:
On behalf of United Religions Initiative (URI), a global interfaith organization with 500,000 members across the world, we write to extend our deepest condolences to the People of Nigeria after the tragic attacks of December 25.
Acts of violence in the name of religion are an affront to the values held sacred by all of our faiths and your grief, felt most keenly by the families and friends of the victims, is shared throughout the human community.
As we grieve this terrible loss, we collectively ask what we can do to steer those who would fall into the trap of extremism onto a path of peace, and to make our communities stronger and more welcoming of the diversity.
URI, whose purpose is to promote enduring, daily interfaith cooperation, to end religiously motivated violence and to create cultures of peace, justice and healing for the Earth and all living beings, stands in solidarity with people all over the world who pursue these goals through collaborative action.
As your society begins to heal its wounds and continues grappling with the challenges that religious and cultural diversity bring to any nation, know that the URI community, including our five member organizations in Nigeria, is behind you with unwavering support and heartfelt prayers.
Faithfully,
Debra Bernstein, Acting Executive Director
Yoland Trevino, Chair, Global Council of Trustees
Amb. Mussie Hailu, Africa Regional Director
