25 July 2014
As the widespread
violence and aggression facing Christians and minority groups in Mosul, Iraq, intensifies,
it is increasingly evident that the fundamental right and freedom to practice
one’s Faith and belief is, and continues to be, grossly violated.
We are currently
witnessing an unacceptable widespread implementation of extremist religious ideology
that threatens the lives of all Iraqi’s who do not fit within its ever-narrowing
perspective. While this situation stands to eradicate centuries of co-existence
and culture in the region it also threatens to significantly and negatively
impact these communities for generations to come. If left unchallenged, it is not
Iraq alone that is at risk, but the potential is intensified for the
replication of this ideology as a viable and legitimate model for others across
the Middle East.
As the
situation escalates, little is being said in the worldwide community, and I am therefore appreciative of the recent
comment by The Royal Institute for Inter-Faith Studies, and its Chairman,
His Royal Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, expressing its concern
over the current situation in Mosul. Comments such as this have the potential to
positively influence these and similar situations by challenging what is being
taught, and presenting an alternative religious understanding.
We continue
to pray and advocate for all whose God-given right to freedom is denied, hoping
that acceptance and respect for all is realised in these affected communities,
and that grace, healing and strength will be given to those who continue to
suffer great atrocities and the loss of precious human life.
