Ecumenism of blood and interfaith solidarity in Nigeria: A theological and multicultural appraisal

Abstract

This article explores the concept of ‘ecumenism of blood’, a phrase coined by Pope Francis. It refers to a form of Christian unity forged through persecution that transcends denominational affiliations. Within the Roman Catholic context, ecumenism of blood emphasises intra-Christian unity. However, with a focus on a multicultural context, particularly Kaduna State, Nigeria, this article employs the concepts of human dignity and Namsoon Kang’s theology of neighbour love to analyse three lived experiences namely, the 2002 Kaduna Peace Declaration, the 2023 abduction of worshippers at the Bege Baptist Church and the peacebuilding initiatives of Reverend James Wuye and Imam Muhammad Ashafa. The findings reveal that persecution not only unites Christians across denominations but also promotes interfaith solidarity rooted in shared human values, which affirms human dignity and social cohesion.
Contribution: The article contributes to practical theological discourses on ecumenism, religious freedom, religious dialogue, compassion, peaceful coexistence and national transformation in pluralistic societies.