Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Multan (Agenzia Fides) – Muslim extremist groups in Pakistan have threatened retaliation and violence against churches, Christian schools, and institutions, if the planned "Koran Burning Day" is held.
"We fear for our churches and our people. We hope and pray that no one will burn the Koran, on the anniversary of September 11. We expect, on that important date, gestures of dialogue, understanding, respect, and harmony between peoples and religions, to commemorate the victims of terrorism. We are called together, Christians and Muslims, to build a universal brotherhood." These are the words of Bishop Andrew Francis of Multan in an interview in Fides, as news continues to circulate regarding the “Koran Burning Day” being canceled, rescheduled, suspended, etc. The Bishop confirmed to Fides that he had seen Muslims filled with rage and disappointment, hurt and offended by the mere fact that a Christian pastor would propose such an act.
The spread of the news has generated anti-Christian protests and demonstrations in different places across the country. Fides sources in Hyderabad say that a procession of Muslims passed through the streets with anti-Christian slogans and protests. "We are very concerned about the possible violent consequences for Christian religious minorities in Pakistan," Fides was told by James Francis, activist and member of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, an extremely active local NGO.
Yesterday, the Cathedral of Hyderabad hosted a public meeting in which leaders from the Catholic Church and from other Christian denominations, along with Muslim leaders and representatives of civil society, condemned the act, expressing their wish to maintain interfaith relations in the country, which is already suffering from floods and terrorist attacks. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 09/10/2010)
