Nigeria, April 12 -- "Touch not my anointed, and do my prophets no harm." That is a biblical injunction stated in Psalm 105:15 and 1 Chronicles 16:22, warning against harming or mistreating people set apart for God's purpose.

Right from the beginning of organised Christianity, the pope, as head of the Roman Catholic Church, is the chief servant and peace ambassador. No matter his educational or cultural background, it is predictable that once he is elected, he will be an advocate of peace and love. After all, Christ reduced the Ten Commandments to one- love of God and neighbour.

Jesus Christ was the foremost peace advocate. Just hours before he was crucified, he was concerned for the peace and wellbeing of his followers: "Peace I leave ...