Unity serves as the bedrock upon which a peaceful world can be built. When individuals come together, regardless of their differences, and work towards a common goal, the barriers of ignorance, prejudice, and mistrust begin to crumble. BETTY AMUKPO dialogues with some children on how to promote unity and peace. Their views:
‘We must work together in harmony and promote peace’
The importance of unity and peace cannot be overstated. They are essential components of progress and development. To work towards a better future, we must work together in harmony and promote peace. This can be achieved by fostering open dialogue, understanding diverse perspectives, and celebrating common values. Other ways include encouraging community engagement through collaborative projects and cultural exchanges. Emphasise empathy and compassion in everyday interactions, creating safe spaces for discussion, use social media campaigns to share positive stories of cooperation and solidarity, Together, we can build a harmonious society that values inclusion and mutual respect. Bible references:
• John 17v20: 23
• 2 Corinthians 13; 11, Ephesians 4 :3.
• Omovon Victory
‘Promote unity by embracing diversity’
Promote unity by embracing diversity (Galatians 3:28), forgiving others (Matthew 6:14- 15), and seeking understanding (Proverbs 10:32). Encourage open dialogue, listen actively, and value diverse perspectives. Organise community events celebrating unity, and support initiatives promoting peace (Psalm 34:14). Foster inclusivity by welcoming strangers (Matthew 25:35), loving neighbours (Mark 12:31), and praying for peace (Psalm 122:6-7). Address conflicts through respectful communication (Ephesians 4:29- 32), and humility (Philippians 2:3-4). As Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). Strive to be agents of unity and peace, reflecting God’s love and grace. Additional Bible verses:
• Romans 15:7 – “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you.”
• 1 Corinthians 12:25 – “So that there should be no division in the body.”
• Hebrews 12:14 – “Strive for peace with everyone.”
• Agbo Josephine Chidalu
‘Strive for peace with everyone’
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for holiness without which no one will see the Lord,” (Hebrews 12:14). We strive with truth in all we have to promote unity and peace because we will account for everything we do. Thus, I start from myself in promoting unity and peace in my family then spread it out to where I am, because we all need unity and peace to live a harmonious life
• Eyinade Gideon
‘I won’t fight or say mean things, so we can all feel happy and safe’
I will promote unity and peace by being kind to everyone, sharing, and helping my friends (Ephesians 4:32). I won’t fight or say mean things, so we can all feel happy and safe (Matthew 5:9). I will live in peace with everyone (Romans 12:10); listen carefully, and respect everyone’s differences (Romans 12:10); stand up for what’s right (Proverbs 31:8-9); and work together as a team (1 Corinthians 1:10). When we help each other and share love, we create a peaceful world for everyone (Colossians 3:14).”
• Ogoke Chimamanda Anthonia
‘The seeds of discord sown by violence and conflicts can only be destroyed by tolerance, understanding, peace and unity’
Unity and peace are integral in the building of relationships in the human society. The seeds of discord sown by violence and conflicts can only be destroyed by human empathy, tolerance, understanding, peace and unity. Psalm 133: 1 states, ‘How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity’! The Bible was sacrosanct here as it described this in verse 2 to be like a precious oil poured on the head, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes. In Ephesians 4:3, St. Paul enjoins the Ephesians to make every effort to keep unity of the spirit through the bond of peace. It’s only beautiful to invite God to dwell in our midst by promoting unity and peace, for Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, ‘For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them.’ May the Holy Spirit help us to strive to live in unity, peace and harmony to publicise the fact that God really dwells among us, Amen!
• Ogechukwu Okorie
‘Practise empathy, learn to forgive, show kindness, be open to constructive dialogue’
Promoting unity and peace requires intentional efforts to build bridges, foster understanding, and cultivate harmony. I would promote unity and peace by practicing empathy, learning to forgive, showing kindness, by being open to constructive dialogue, mediate in disputes and encourage peaceful resolution, respect people’s opinions and most importantly, pray for peace in my home and the society at large. Jesus Christ encouraged us in Matthew 5:9, to be peacemakers. Psalm 133:1 – “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live in unity.” Remember, every small action counts and collective efforts can lead to significant positive change.
• Promise Anyikaeme
‘In humility, value others above yourselves’
I will live in harmony with others for God made all nations from one man. I would promote unity and peace by encouraging love, forgiveness, kindness and understanding. Do not be proud, but willing to associate with people of low position. Galatians 3:28 says ‘There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you all are one in Christ Jesus.’ John 13:34 states, ‘Love one another as I have loved you.’ (John15:12). While Philippians 2:3 declares, ‘In humility value others above yourselves.’ Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Peace brings people together. Unity and peace are ongoing processes that require effort and dedication. If we follow the steps of Jesus Christ, we can work towards a more harmonious and peaceful world. Be a peacemaker for the Bible states, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9). Be kind and compassionate.
• Anita Chima
