Pastor Folabi Solomons – Minister of the Redeemed Christian Church of God:
"Redeemed Christian Church of God was founded in Lagos, Nigeria but has a presence in many countries across the world. Our Church in Tbilisi was founded around seven years ago.
We believe in Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and the doctrines of the Bible. We have a Sunday school where we read and explain Bible. We have children’s space where they learn and play. We are open for everyone, no matter of their nationality and we want to help everyone find the way to God.When you come to the new country, you have to respect local traditions, maintain yours and integrate into the society. We are Pentecostal church and Jesus Christ unites all of us, Christians. However, we may have different ways of worship. I’ve been to Georgian Orthodox church before. Parishioners are quiet, serene, priests pray for you. That was one of the wonderful experiences I had. From our point of view, we believe we have to express ourselves to God. When people come here they express that they are happy and full of joy. That’s how we show our gratitude, our commitment, appreciation. That’s natural thing we believe we should do. So for me, it’s the same Body of Christ. Orthodox Christians are preaching the love, loving one’s neighbor, so are we and it’s the same Bible we are preaching. I love Georgia, its diverse, old, unique culture and openness to accept differences. Our Church is also open for people willing to share their love and those just interested to get familiar with us. "
Photo: Nino Baidauri
Prepared by Tolerance and Diversity Institute (TDI)
2018