ARCHBISHOP PANTI PRAYS FOR GLOBAL PEACE, AFFIRMS HOPE FOR NIGERIA

The Archbishop of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria and immediate past president of the Lutheran World Federation, Most Rev. Musa Panti Filibus, PhD, OFR, has once again commended the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary for its active involvement in rescuing Nigerians stranded in Europe during the height of the Russia-Ukraine war.

His commendation came during the centennial celebration of the annual national convention of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), held in Demsa, Adamawa State, Northeast Nigeria.

Archbishop Filibus made these remarks while receiving a delegation from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary, led by Bishop Tamás Fabiny and other international guests.

Reflecting on the crisis, Archbishop Filibus recounted how, when the war broke out, he reached out to the Hungarian Lutheran Church, urging them to assist Nigerians trapped in Europe. The Hungarian Church responded swiftly, leading to the successful reception and hosting of numerous Nigerians.

Using the occasion to advocate for global solidarity, the Archbishop appealed to the international community to uphold human dignity by standing with those in need—just as the Hungarian Lutheran Church had done when called upon.

Earlier, in a goodwill message on behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary, Bishop Tamás Fabiny affirmed Archbishop Filibus’ account, acknowledging that while they were able to assist Nigerians in reaching safer ground during the peak of the conflict, he continues to pray for an end to the war.

He further emphasized that the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria is a church of great integrity on the global stage, a reputation built through the selfless and constructive leadership of Archbishop Musa Panti Filibus, PhD, OFR and previous leaders.

Bishop Fabiny also used the occasion to pray for the continued growth of the Lutheran Church in Nigeria and for lasting peace in the country.

The five-day annual national convention of the LCCN has proceeded without any disruptions, drawing clergy and worshippers from all walks of life. Delegates from the United States, Germany, Denmark, Hungary, along with representatives from African nations such as Ethiopia and Kenya, are participating in the historic gathering.