The new Bishop of the Methodist Mission in Banjul, Bishop Professor Stephen, last Thursday called on the Imam Ratib Alhaji Cherno Alieu Mass Kah at his residence in Banjul.

The visit is a demonstration of the mutual understanding, tolerance and respect that exist between the two religious sects in the country. The visit is also geared towards strengthening the relationship between the two religious sects, taking into account the numerous religious conflicts taking place around the world.

The Methodist Bishop was received upon arrival by the Imam Ratib himself, Alhaji Abdou Faal, chairman of the Banjul Muslim Elders Committee, Dr. Ebrima Samba, vice-chairman of the Banjul Muslim Elders Committee and Alieu Mboge, secretary general of the committee. Speaking at the meeting, Abdou Faal, chairman of the Banjul Muslim Elders Committee, thanked the new Methodist Bishop for the initiative he has taken in further strengthening the existing relationship between the two Christians and Muslims in the country.

He added that the visit is a clear demonstration of the good relations between the Christians and Muslims.  He therefore congratulated the new Bishop on their recent conference where he recalled the Bishop saying; "the relationship between the Muslims and Christians in The Gambia is unique and an example to the whole world."

Faal also congratulated the Methodist Mission for the noble work they are doing in the country particularly in the areas of education, health and agriculture. He finally wished Bishop Stephen long life and good health. For his part, Bishop Professor Stephen began his remarks by expressing gratefulness and delight for the good relations that exist between the Muslims and Christians in The Gambia, which he said is paying dividend, while underscoring the need for such relations to continue.

He dilated on the need for the religious heads to be meeting from time to time to revise and nurture the faith of observing of the religions by sharing ideas on how to address certain concerns and expressed hope that this initiative would continue. According to him, he is here to help Gambian Christians to become good Bishop Leaders in the country rather hiring Bishops from outside the country.

Welcoming the Bishop, the Imam Ratib of Banjul, Alhaji Cherno Alieu Mass Kah expressed delight at receiving the new Methodist Bishop in his home. He recalled that in 2004 when he was appointed Imam Ratib following the demise of his predecessor, the late Imam Ratib Alhaji Abdoulie Jobe, the Methodist Mission were the first to congratulate him among the Christian Missions. He said he is impressed with the Methodist Mission, looking at the good relations that continue to exist between Muslims and Christians.

Imam Ratib Kah recalled the great efforts made by Rt. Rev. Norman Griggs, the former Bishop of the Methodist Mission in fostering the relations between Muslims and Christians. He finally expressed hope that this peaceful initiative will continue.