Addis Ababa: Ethiopian religious fathers have urged the public to uphold the time-honored values of unity and solidarity that Ethiopians have preserved for generations. The religious fathers made the remark today in their joint message delivered in connection with the commemoration of 'Diversity Day', observed across the nation to highlight the significance of diversity to realizing inclusive nation building process. In their message they urged that the time-honored values of unity and solidarity that Ethiopians have preserved for generations should be nurtured to foster peace in the nation, stressing the importance of standing together for peace. His Grace Abune Abraham General Manager of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Patriarchate Head Office and Archbishop of Bahir Dar and North Gojam Diocese, reminded the faithful that as we enter the new year, it is imperative that we dedicate ourselves to work on matters that pleases God. He also called upon everyone to play their part in promoting peace, un ity, and solidarity. As we usher in the New Year, we should seek repentance for past wrongs, forgive one another, and be inspired to fulfill God's will in the coming days, Abune Abraham added. Sheikh Ibrahim Tufa, President of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, echoed this sentiment, noting that the desires of all people are peace, joy, love, and unity. He encouraged all followers of every faith to prioritize peace and harmony, making it their chosen path. Father Abinet Abebe, Director of Family, Faithful Affairs, and Youth Apostolic Service of the Secretariat of the Ethiopian Catholic Bishops' Conference, emphasized that the new year should be a time for all to strive for peace and unity. He urged everyone to contribute to the preservation of these values. Pastor Tsadiku Abdo, President of the Ethiopian Evangelical Churches Fellowship, highlighted that the New Year calls for reconciliation, forgiveness, and mutual respect. He emphasized that this should be a time for healing and building rel ationships. Pastor Tadese Adugna, President of the Ethiopian Seventh-day Adventist Church, encouraged people to abandon past grievances and cleanse their hearts of evil thoughts. He stressed the importance of embracing goodness and righteousness. Moreover, he reminded the faithful that beyond prayer, it is essential to safeguard the peace given to us by the Creator and pass it on to future generations. Secretary General of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Council, Reverend Dereje Jemberu underscored that in the New Year, we should work towards the betterment of our country and its people. He called for unity and cooperation for the sake of peace. Finally, Simeon Mulatu, General Secretary of the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believers Church, urged the faithful to give thanks to the Creator as we step into the New Year and to stand firm against divisiveness and deceit. He emphasized that in the times ahead, we should live by doing the deeds that are pleasing to the Creator, rather than succumbing to hatred and ex tremism. In their collective message, the religious fathers called upon all Ethiopians to stand united, uphold the values of peace and harmony, and embrace the virtues that have long sustained the nation's spirit. Source: Ethiopian News Agency