Cardinal Tauran, in Iran, calls for respect for religious minorities
November 26, 2014
Addressing a Muslim-Catholic colloquium in Tehran, Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran called for respect for religious minorities.
“It would, however, be more opportune to give these little communities the possibility of speaking about their situation openly, without fearing any negative reactions either from the political authorities or from their neighbors,” said the president of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. “Education, especially through textbooks, has the moral obligation to present religions and their followers in an objective and respectful manner.”
Cardinal Tauran called for a “brotherhood in Abrahamic monotheism that includes the Jews as well”—a delicate reference, perhaps, to former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s frequent comments on Israel.
The prelate added that “we cannot remain silent or indifferent to the extreme, inhuman and multi-form violence [to] which Christians and Yazidis have been subjected. Many of them, as we know, have preferred death to renouncing their faith.”
“They are true martyrs,” he added. “The sacrifice of those who were driven out of their homes, often carrying but only the dress they were wearing, should not be forgotten. Nothing can justify these heinous acts. Invoking religion to justify these crimes would be a crime against religion itself as well.”
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
