The Bishop of Banjul Robert Patrick Ellison CSSp yesterday called on the Imam Ratib of Banjul Alh Cherno Kah at his residences in Banjul.

Speaking at the occasion, Bishop of Banjul Patrick Ellison said the purpose of his visit to the Imam was to congratulate him and the entire Muslim community in the country on the feast of Tobaski.

Bishop Ellison stated that one month back, 24 Muslims and Christians met in Rome with Pope Benidict the XV1 to share ideas, noting that the purpose of the Rome meeting was meant to bring peace in the world.

He pointed out that his meeting with the Imam Ratib is a sign of hope adding that in The Gambia, Christian and Muslims share a lot in common. He prayed for God to bless the peace in the country.

For his part, the Imam Ratib of Banjul, Alh Cherno Kah thanked the Bishop for the visit, adding that in The Gambia, Muslims and Christians are living peacefully. He noted that in The Gambia, Christian and Muslims respect each other and their leaders always preach peace.

Imam Kah called on religious leaders to build up unity so that people can follow in order to foster mutual understanding and relationship.

He also used the occasion to pray for both Muslims and Christians in the country and also urged religious leaders to pray for global peace.

Imam Kah also used the occasion to wish the Christian community a happy Christmas in advance.

He said among the religions, Christianity is closer to Islam.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of Banjul Muslim Elders, Alh. A.A. Faal, said when the Imam was elected in 2004, the former British High Commissioner Eric Jenkinson was the first to visit him.

Mr Faal also commended the Bishop and delegation for the visit, noting that very soon the Banjul Muslim elders will also embark on a similar visit.

Father Edu Gomez, during a brief statement, also hailed the two religious leaders and the President Professor Jammeh for the peace in the country.

The occasion was graced by the Mayor of Banjul Samba Faal and prominent religious leaders from both religions.