Genesis urges unity as Ramadan, Lent coincide
The leader of Genesis Global Church, Israel Oladele Ogundipe, popularly known as Prophet Genesis, has called for interfaith harmony following the rare alignment of Ramadan and the Lenten season. Speaking
The leader of Genesis Global Church, Israel Oladele Ogundipe, popularly known as Prophet Genesis, has called for interfaith harmony following the rare alignment of Ramadan and the Lenten season.
Speaking in Lagos, the cleric described the simultaneous observance of the Islamic and Christian fasting periods as a divine opportunity for reflection, humility and peaceful coexistence.
“There are moments in history that are bigger than calendars or denominations,” he said.
“When Ramadan and Lent align in the same season, it reminds us that God’s sovereignty transcends religion, borders and human systems.”
Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide, is marked by fasting, prayer and charity, while Lent, the Christian period preceding Easter, focuses on repentance, sacrifice and spiritual renewal. Prophet Genesis noted that despite doctrinal differences, both seasons emphasize discipline, generosity, forgiveness and closeness to God.
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“What seems separate to us is not separate to God,” he said, adding that both faiths encourage increased prayer, charity and self-examination during their sacred observances.
According to him, the convergence carries a deeper message at a time of global tension and social division.
He warned that religious hostility only compounds existing challenges, urging believers to embrace shared values instead.
“If sacred seasons can align, why can’t we?” he asked.
The cleric stressed that religion should guide humanity toward righteousness rather than fuel discrimination or conflict.
He encouraged religious leaders, youth groups and families to use the period to foster dialogue, mutual respect and acts of kindness across faith lines.
“The power of this moment is not in theological debate,” he said. “It is in the opportunity for unity.”
He concluded that the ultimate purpose of both fasting seasons is inner transformation. “At the end of every fast, the true evidence of spirituality is love,” he said. “A transformed heart does not discriminate. It loves.”
