"Essence of all religion is love -- love of God and love of one another. Violence on the ground of religion is an abuse of religion," she said decrying the communal riots in Orissa.

Quoting Mother Teresa, on her death anniversary this Friday, Nirmala said "Religion is meant to be a work of love. It is not meant to destroy peace and unity. Works of love are works of peace. Let us use religion to become one heart full of love in the Heart of God."

Sister Nirmala also called for prayers for slain VHP leader Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati, his four associates and those who died in the violence in Orissa's Kandhamal district.

"Let us put down the weapon of hatred and violence and put on the armour of love. Let us forgive one another and ask forgiveness from one another for the wrong we have done to each other and reach out in love to each other."